Google Tests Gray Shaded Search Ads & Local Pack

Google is testing shading the background color behind the search ads, sponsored results, and the local pack in the Google Search results. I do like that Google is testing differentiating the organic/free listings with the search ads/sponsored listings.

I don't know if that is Google's intent here but Google is testing it.

I cannot replicate this but Darren Shaw spotted this and posted these screenshots on LinkedIn:

Do you see this? Thomas Eccel also noticed this.

Forum discussion at LinkedIn.

Update: More variations:

New Google Ads Test On Mobile!

Google Appears To Be Testing Serving Ads On Mobile In A Slightly Different Gray Configuration. pic.twitter.com/0AqEYQOmA5

— Anthony Higman (@AnthonyHigman) June 8, 2026

Google is testing a light gray animation around Sponsored results on mobile.
I'm seeing a subtle gray animated effect appearing above and below ads in mobile search results.
Has anyone else noticed this test?@rustybrick@gaganghotra_ @brodieseo #Google #SEO #GoogleAds pic.twitter.com/nXnnazcP82

— Sachin Patel (@SachuPatel53124) June 9, 2026