Welcome to MatchCraft’s News Roundup! In this blog, we’re here to help you stay in the know about the latest happenings in digital advertising. Let’s explore what’s new and exciting together.
Industry News
We’ve gathered up the important stuff, so you don’t have to. Get quick summaries of the big news in digital advertising. Whether it’s changes in how search engines work or cool new trends, we’ve got the scoop. We know things move fast, and we’re here to keep you up to speed.
Google Ads Performance Max Image Generation Now Available
Google has introduced AI-powered tools for image generation in Performance Max campaigns, aiming to enhance ad campaigns through automated asset creation.
AI Tools for Image Generation
Google’s Performance Max campaigns now benefit from advanced AI tools, driven by Gemini and Imagen 2 models. These tools enable features like long headline generation and the creation of visuals depicting active lifestyle scenarios.
Enhancing Images with Imagen 2
A new model, Imagen 2, updates image generation technology. Advertisers can now create visuals showcasing people in dynamic scenarios. Imagen 2 also allows the generation of variations of existing high-performing images, expanding creative options.
Optimizing Ad Strength
To enhance Ad Strength, Google suggests strategies like adding more assets, including AI-generated adaptations. Leveraging design platforms, such as Canva, for direct image imports and incorporating videos can significantly boost conversions.
Share Ad Previews are Coming
This month, Google plans to introduce a feature allowing the sharing of advertising previews via links without requiring a Google Ads login (Search Engine Journal). This update aims to streamline the creative development process and improve collaboration between different teams.
Google is Enhancing Search for Europe
Google is introducing new search features in the European Economic Area (EEA) to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) (European Commission). These updates include a rich result carousel for travel, local services, and shopping queries, allowing users to scroll through visually enhanced search results.
Dedicated ‘aggregator units’ with refinement chips will provide direct links to content from aggregator sites, enhancing the user search experience (Google). Additionally, Google is testing a separate unit for flight-related searches, making it easier to find flight details.
These features are exclusive to the EEA and are part of Google’s commitment to DMA compliance, offering users more choice and fostering a competitive digital market (Search Engine Journal). The DMA, effective in March, introduces regulations for large tech companies, or “gatekeepers,” to ensure fair competition, user autonomy, and transparency. Google aims to implement these changes while prioritizing a seamless user experience.
Google Releases New ‘How Search Works’ Episode On Crawling
Google’s latest video in the “How Search Works” series gives us a peek behind the scenes of how their search engine works, focusing on how Google uses “crawling.” Hosted by Google Analyst Gary Illyes, the seven-minute video explains how Google’s software, known as Googlebot, discovers and explores new web pages. Illyes breaks down the steps Googlebot takes, like following links from pages it already knows, to find new and updated content across the internet.
The video also highlights the importance of sitemaps for Googlebot, helping it navigate and efficiently explore all the pages on a website. For advertisers looking to make sure their content gets noticed by Googlebot, the video provides practical tips, such as avoiding overwhelming Googlebot with too many updates and making sure pages load quickly.
This educational series is part of Google’s effort to help everyone understand how their search engine works. In the upcoming episodes, they’ll cover more topics like indexing, evaluating quality, and refining searches. You can catch these videos on the Google Search Central YouTube channel. It’s a great way for advertisers to learn how to make their content more visible and accessible to Googlebot.
What’s New at MatchCraft
Take a look at what’s recently been happening at MatchCraft. From the awards we’ve won to the inside scoop on Connect with Senior Product Manager, Matt Kraft, a lot has happened in Q1, and we’re excited to talk about it.
MatchCraft Awarded Microsoft Advertising’s 2023 Rising Star of the Year
(Source, Vendasta)
We’re excited to announce that MatchCraft has received the prestigious title of Microsoft Advertising Rising Star of the Year for 2023! This recognition highlights our dedication to effective engagement and our strong partnership with Microsoft across the advertising network. It’s a great honor to be acknowledged by Microsoft Advertising for our contributions.
Learn more by visiting Vendasta’s press release on this exciting achievement.
Interview: Connecting the Dots with Matt Kraft
We had the chance to chat with Matt Kraft, the Senior Product Manager of MatchCraft’s Connect project. Matt is leading a team that works diligently to improve the user experience and functionality of the MatchCraft platform for partners. In this conversation, Matt discusses the origins of Connect, its features, and the exciting prospects for its future.
Check out the full interview here.
MatchCraft’s Q4 2023 PPC Insights
Navigating the complexities of digital advertising can feel daunting at times, but fear not! We’ve got some valuable insights to ease your journey. If you’re eager to elevate your PPC campaigns, check out our Q4 2023 PPC Trends Report today!
Discover Your Advertising Edge with MatchCraft
In the world of online advertising, gaining the upper hand is the name of the game, and MatchCraft is here to help. We combine the latest technology with expert know-how to make your clients’ campaigns stand out. Join other successful advertisers who have found success with our award-winning combination of tech and expertise. It’s time to find your advertising edge—contact us today to get your free demo.