Google Tests Ad Copy Variations & More Industry News

Google Core Update for August 2023

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From Google’s rather secretive ad copy testing and introduction of more AI tools in Google Labs to Meta reels outperforming TikTok content, let’s dive into the recent digital marketing, search, and generative AI news!

Stay in the Know About the Latest in the SEO/Google Realm

 

Google Tests Ad Copy Variations in Live Ads

Google has silently initiated a test involving ad copy variations by placing headlines within ad copy description text. 



Advertisers were not given prior notice about this experiment, leading to frustration in the community. 



The uncertainty surrounding the potential expansion of this ad copy test to more accounts makes it challenging for advertisers, especially those with smaller budgets, to assess changes. 



Google Ads liaison officer Ginny Marvin addressed concerns, stating it's a small test with no further details provided. 



Advertisers, including Google Ads expert Anthony Higman, express frustration over the lack of transparency and suggest this ad copy testing could be part of Google's move toward full automation, which may not suit all advertisers.

 

Google Ads Restructuring Its Team Amid Automation Boom

Google is reportedly planning a significant restructure of its 30,000-person ad sales unit, led by executive Sean Downey. 



The move is seen as part of Google's increasing focus on full automation, raising concerns among advertisers, especially those with smaller budgets. 



While Downey did not comment on the possibility of layoffs in its Google Ads team, the news follows Google's ongoing investments in AI and machine learning for enhanced ad purchasing, reducing human involvement. 



PPC experts believe that Google will find different ways for AI to take over many functions, but it cannot replace human support entirely.

 

What Is Breaking Ground in Generative AI & Content Marketing?

 

Google Labs Design Includes 12 Generative AI Tools for Search & More

Google has unveiled a redesigned Google Labs with 12 artificial intelligence (AI) experimental tools, showcasing the future of generative AI in search, business, and productivity.



The Google Labs’ experimental tools cover various applications, such as AI writing assistance (TextFX) and collaborative AI-assisted writing for Google Workspace (Duet AI).



These experimental tools also include AI-assisted research (NotebookLM), and an AI experiment for improving image prompting skills (Say What You See). 



Other experiments involve AI applications in YouTube, music composition (Instrument Playground with MusicFX), code generation and optimization (Project IDX), and AI-powered text replies on Android (Magic Compose). 



The redesigned Google Labs reflects the company's commitment to advancing AI technology across various domains.

 

Research Introduced Framework for Generative Engine Optimization

Google Core Update for August 2023A new research paper introduced the Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) framework, aiming to enhance content visibility in Generative Engine responses. 



The study, authored by researchers from Princeton, Georgia Tech, The Allen Institute of AI, and IIT Delhi, emphasizes the impact of adding relevant statistics, quotations, and citations, increasing content visibility in generative engines by up to 40%. 



The GEO framework employs a black-box optimization approach to define visibility metrics systematically. 



Tested techniques include authoritative content modification, keyword stuffing, statistics addition, source citations, quotation inclusion, and more. 



The study suggests domain-specific adjustments for optimal visibility and highlights GEO's potential to benefit lower-ranked websites in search engine results pages.

 

Unveiling the Latest in the World of Social Media

Facebook and Instagram Reels Drive More Views Than TikTok Clips

Google Core Update for August 2023A recent video performance analysis by Emplifi indicates that Instagram Reels outperform TikTok clips in driving views on both Facebook and Instagram. 



The study, which reviewed thousands of posts across Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, found that longer Reels performed the best, surpassing all other Reels lengths in terms of median views. 



The data revealed that Reels, particularly longer ones, clearly outperformed TikTok in view counts on both Facebook and Instagram. It’s an interesting insight given how TikTok is generally perceived to be more impactful.



It suggests that Reels have become a significant engagement driver across Meta's apps and may impact content planning strategies for brands in 2024.

 

What’s New in the Video Industry? Let’s Loop You in!

YouTube Shared Tips to Boost Ad Performance for 2024

Google Core Update for August 2023YouTube recently shared insights from its top-performing ads of 2023, offering tips for brands aiming to improve their campaigns in 2024. 



Among the top ads were Apple's "Study with Me" featuring actor Storm Reid, Louis Vuitton's 20-minute fashion show, and Pepsi's "Rise Up Baby" music video campaign. 



Key takeaways include leveraging creator collaborations, incorporating Shorts for higher conversions, experimenting with long-form storytelling aligned with trends, and utilizing AI tools for enhanced campaign targeting. 



While some tips relate to celebrity partnerships, others can be applied across different budgets, providing additional considerations for YouTube ad copy and more strategies in 2024.