Keeping up with Google Ads:
Image Extensions and SERP Revolutions

Google’s development of image extensions revolutionises the visual layout of search engine results pages

Amongst a growing repertoire of ad extensions, Google’s development of image extensions revolutionises the visual layout of search engine results pages (SERPs). By incorporating a small image next to the text ad, image extensions can be used to complement your ad’s message or to visually explain information that can be difficult to express using text only.

They work to differentiate ads from competitors and aim to increase the click-through rate and drive more organic traffic to your website. Although still in development (in Beta), some advertisers are able to use image extensions already. As internet users have become adept at comprehending both text and images together, Google Ads’ image extension represents an attempt to appease its users and redesign SERPs with them in mind.

Dynamic image extensions – also still in Beta – work similarly to add further supporting visuals to your text ad. They do so automatically, by taking images from your ad’s landing page. This creates a preview so users know what to expect after clicking on your ad. After opting-in to dynamic image extensions in the ‘automated extensions tab’, Google will identify relevant images from your ad’s landing page. These images are then processed manually to ensure they meet all necessary requirements and guidelines before finally being published alongside your headline and text.

It is worth noting, however, that image extensions will always be used over dynamic image extensions to ensure you have ultimate control over the visuals accompanying your advertisement.

Whilst image extensions are still in Beta, why not try another ad-extension? Google has developed a range of ad extensions over the years all aiming to increase your click-through rate and heighten your ad’s performance. They have reported that, on average, there is a 10-15% increase in click-through rate as a result of implementing ad-extensions to your Google text ad.

Find out how to implement your own image extensions at: https://support.google.com/google-ads/answer/9566341?hl=en-GB