Responsive search ads are Google Ads’ new default ad type. They allow you to create an ad that is responsive to the searcher’s query. You no longer have to worry about creating multiple versions of your ad with different headlines and descriptions.
After June 30th, 2022, advertisers could no longer create or edit expanded text ads.
This update has been a long time coming and is part of Google’s larger movement toward automation.
Google first announced Responsive Search Ads in 2018, and they have been slowly phasing out expanded text ads since then.
This post will cover everything you need to know about Responsive Search Ads, including what’s new and what to lookout for.
Responsive Search Ads Are the New Default in Google Ads: What You Need to Know Before the Deadline
Expanded text ads were retired in June 2022. The news was announced in August 2021 when Google introduced Responsive Search Ads (RSAs) as its default ad for search campaigns.
What changed?
Responsive Search Ads, also known as RSA, replace Expanded Text Ads in Google Ads.
Fortunately, this doesn’t mean that Expanded Text Ads (ETAs) aren’t completely gone, but you can no longer edit or create new ones.
On June 30th, 2022, any active Expanded Text Ads that were already in your account will continue to serve, but any new variations will need to be made within the Responsive Search Ad framework.
Why the change?
Google claims the new Responsive Search Ads are more efficient in terms of delivering a more efficient product than an ETA.
While many advertisers feel that machine learning reduces their ability to control campaigns, Google believes machine learning improves campaign flexibility.
Google touts that Responsive Search Ads can help you:
- Create ads that more easily adapt to varying device dimensions
- Save time by automating the process
- Customize headlines and descriptions based on location
- Reach more potential customers with ads that better match search queries
- Improve performance through increased auction opportunities
What are responsive search ads?
Although a Responsive Search Ad appears the same as an Expanded Text Ad in the SERP (search engine results page), the process of creating an ad in Google is different with the new format.
Google’s Responsive Search Ad system detects the best combination of text headline and description and automatically presents it to users, generating the best-predicted output to match the search query.
Responsive Search Ads enable you to create one search ad from a variation of 15 titles of 30 characters each and a description line with a maximum of 90 characters each.
What are Expanded Text Ads?
Expanded Text Ads (ETAs), introduced at the Google Performance Summit in May 2016, allowed businesses to change text advertising to ETAs. This was intended to aid in the adaptation to the mobile-first world.
Initially, expanded text ads contained one 30-character headline and one 60-word description line. In August 2018, Google rolled out an additional three headlines and two descriptions in an earlier version.
The pros and cons of RSAs
Responsive Search Ads’ unique ability is clearly demonstrated through dynamic cycling across headlines and descriptions, which distinguishes them from Expanded Text Ads. However, the variety and machine automation take away some of the control you have over your ads.
Responsive Search Ads can take more time to complete as many variations exist. However, Google does provide recommendations during the creation process.
Fortunately, you can pin up to 3 headlines and 2 descriptions, although pinning is only recommended when absolutely necessary.
Benefits of responsive search ads
In conjunction with Intelligent Machine Learning, Google’s Responsive Search Ads provide information for numerous ad combinations.
Google Ads can do the hard work for you by testing ads and discovering the best content for you to reach a wide audience.
This can be very beneficial for businesses that don’t have the time or resources to constantly test and monitor their ad campaigns.
Google also provides recommendations for Responsive Search Ads, which can be very helpful in getting started with this new ad format.
Google responsive search ads are a great way to save time and money while still reaching a wide audience. If you’re not sure where to start, Google’s recommendations, based on your website and account, can help generate some ideas.
Tips for creating Headline and Text Variations for Responsive Advertising
Use unique and varied headlines
Having a wide selection of headlines is vital to Google testing with accuracy. Make sure the headlines don’t have the same style, and the words aren’t identical.
Follow the Ad Strength meters on your screen for an accurate picture.
Rely on your keyword research
Make sure your headlines match your keywords. The best Google Ads marketing begins in the keyword research phase.
Use a strong CTA in your ad copy
As always, you want to make sure you have a strong call to action in your ad. Take note of what actions you wish to take on a particular user within your demographic.
Some examples include:
- Learn More
- Buy Now
- Try Free
- Get Started Today
- Contact Us
- Book Now
Pin relevant headlines but don’t overdo it
Pining headlines or descriptions can help you highlight your latest offers and brand name. Although, Google recommends no more than 1-2 pinned headlines per ad.
Best Practices
- Try to include all 15 headlines and 4 description lines to maximize opportunity
- Include relevant keywords
- Regularly add new ad copy variations
- Leverage ad extensions to maximize real estate on SERP
- Limit pinning to 1-2 headlines or descriptions only when necessary
What to keep in mind
- Make sure to carefully monitor your assets, including seasonal and time-sensitive copy (you won’t be able to view asset-level spend)
- Keep to 1 RSA per ad group- testing is now at the asset level, so you don’t need the extra variations
- Establish a benchmark for conversions with new RSAs
- Get familiar with Ad Strength scores
- Understand reporting limitations
Conclusion
Google Responsive Search Ads are a great way to save time and money while still reaching a wide audience. If you’re not sure where to start, Google can provide recommendations to help generate some ideas.
Remember to keep your headlines varied and interesting, focus on your keywords, include a strong CTA, and limit pinning to two headlines or descriptions. Finally, be aware of the reporting limitations that come with responsive search ads.
By following these tips, you can make the most out of Google Ads Responsive Search Ads as the default ad type available.
