Google Announces Big Improvements for Image Extensions -

There are a number of ad extensions you can include with your search ads on Google. However, most of them are text based. The one we will talk about here is the image extension.

Earlier in 2021, Google announced the global rollout of image extensions across accounts. Now you can create visually appealing ads which show up on Google Search Results Pages.

In addition, adding image extensions, since they are new, will help your ads to stand out against most of the other text based types of ads.

Here is what an image extension within Google Ads looks like.

Benefits of Image Extensions

Taking up more space in the ad space of a Google Search Results Page

Increasing click through rates by including extra elements within a search ad

Providing visuals to draw the eye to your ad

What are the Image Extension Specifications?

According to Google, if you want to add in image extensions, they must follow a few rules.

Aspect ratio:
Square 1X1
Miinimum pixels: 300 x 300
Recommended pixels: 1200 x 1200

Landscape 1.91X1
MInimum pixels: 600 x 314
Recommended pixels: 1200 x 628

File types: PNG, JPG, Static GIF

We would recommend you use the “recommended pixel sizes” for your images. This way Google will have everything they need to make the images fit every possible spot.

The Do’s and Don’t’s of Image Extension Requirements

In addition to the specifications, we need to follow some other requirements.

The images need to be graphic only without any text or logo overlays.
Brand logos can’t be used as an image for these either.
The images shouldn’t have too much whitespace, the product or service should be recognizable.
Make sure the images are clear, blurry images and distorted ones are not allowed.
Be careful how you crop your images, always be certain the main focus of the image is clear to see.
The images cannot be animated nor in the form of videos.
You must own the legal rights to the image

Where can image ad extensions show?

Image extensions can mostly be seen on Google.com for the search results pages but can also be seen in the following places:

Google.com
YouTube search via AdSense for Search (Search Partners)

Image Extensions on Desktop

Image extensions previously only would show on mobile devices. Now they have been rolled out to desktops as well. If you already had image extensions in your Google Ads account, they will automatically be added to show on desktops.

If you want to see how well desktop is working vs. mobile or vice versa, then you can segment in that report by device to see specific data connected to each.

How to Make Image Extensions Work Best for You

As you know, with Google Ads, search advertising is all about the “keyword” or “keyword phrase.” It is all based upon how well your ads match the search.

If you want your image extensions to work well, you will not only follow the requirements as listed, but you will take it a step further. You want your image to match your most important keywords.

If your keyword is “blue rollerskates,” you want your image to show blue rollerskates front and center.

If your keyword phrase is “Three cushion couch” then your image should show a three-cushion sofa.

Want to learn how to setup winning Image Extensions on Google Ads the Digital Marketing CEO way? Check out this special resource.

What happens if you don’t have images to use?

Sometimes it is difficult to obtain photos which fit your product or service best. Google thought of this. They now offer the use of stock images which you can search in their library to use as image extensions.

Stock images are nice, but often people start seeing repeats of the same image and they lose some of that interest or eye catching ability when used.

If you really want your image extensions to work well, take the time to obtain your own photos. They will go much further.

What are dynamic image extensions?

You may see the opportunity to use dynamic image extensions on your search ads.

You just need to opt in and then Google will find images on your website which they feel best fit the particular search and show the image where appropriate with your search ad.

How to Setup Winning Image Extensions on Google Ads

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Google Announces Big Improvements for Image Extensions