Confirmed: Google Tests Ads Mixed Within Free Search Results

Oct 25, 2023 - 7:31 am 15 by
Filed Under Google Ads

Woman Confused Computer Screen Google Logo

Google is testing showing ads within the organic (free) search results. Generally, Google would show the ads at the top of each page set, even within the continuous scroll interface. But now Google has confirmed it is experimenting with showing these ads in additional spots within the search results listings.

Ginny Marvin, the Google Ads Liaison, confirmed on X saying, "We're regularly experimenting and don't have anything more to share at this point."

This was first spotted by Lidia Lidia Infante who told me on X she found three ads, followed by four organic free listings, followed by an ad. She shared this screenshot.

Google Search Ads Mixed In Organic Results2

Patrick Stox then spotted a similar thing where the search ads were at the 5th and 3rd organic positions, here is his screenshot he posted on X:

Google Search Ads Mixed In Organic Results

He even shared a video of it in action:

Google Search Ads Mixed In Organic Results

Here is Google's confirmation tweet:

Here are the original tweets with these findings:

I am pretty upset Google is actually testing this. Having ads weaved more into the free organic listings is just really a step too far for me. I know this is continuous scroll but this is just a bit too much for me.

The reaction to this is not great:

Forum discussion at X.

 

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