Google labels ads in mobile search results as 'Sponsored'

Source: Google

Google is changing how paid search results show up on mobile. These will now carry a larger "Sponsored" tag instead of a simple "Ad" tag. The website name is listed at the top of each search result too. The "size and shape" of each site's favicons are also getting updated, so they're easier to see. Google plans to test a "similar experience" on the desktop "soon."

The change is implemented because Google wanted to ensure "ads are clearly labeled" with a tag that's "prominent and clear across different types of paid content." While the more prominent position of site names and favicons should make it easier to "identify the website that's associated with each result at a glance."

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Google experiments with darker 'dark mode' for Android app

Photo by Arkan Perdana on Unsplash

The new dark mode test Google is running on its Android search app isn't the same as the pitch-black dark mode on desktops. The one spotted for the mobile version is darker than the usual dark gray but lighter than pitch black. As The Verge pointed out, this new dark mode could be more attractive for smartphones using OLED displays. It can come in handy to save battery life or give dark mode lovers another option. This new shade is available in Google's latest 13.8 beta version.

Google experiment surfaces Instagram, TikTok videos in Search

Source: type_SEO / Twitter

Google isn't new to indexing videos on its Search platform. But the focus was mostly on desktop-oriented video sites like its own YouTube. Now, the search giant is shifting the focus to the mobile, social media space. Google is experimenting with a new search feature that highlights Instagram and TikTok in a "Short Videos" carousel. It only works for specific terms and shows easy-to-tap thumbnails for relevant videos.

The test is still in its pilot stage, and it works on either your browser or the Google Search app on Android and iOS. Google didn't say if or when it will introduce the carousel to more searches and users. It's a sensible move from the company because if you can find the video you're looking for right from the browser, you're more likely to stay on Google's pages and consequently generate ad money. It also helps save time because it makes it easier to surface videos you might miss on those platforms.

Source: Engadget

Grogu from 'The Mandalorian' becomes a 3D object on Google Search

Source: Google/Lucasfilm

Google continues to expand the augmented reality objects that you can find in Search. This time, it targets The Mandalorian fans. You can search for either Baby Yoda or Grogu (a.k.a. The Child's official name as revealed in the show's second season) on mobile, and it will pull up a Knowledge Panel where you can launch a 3D model of the beloved character.

Similar to other AR objects in Search, you can place Grogu in your space, and you can take pictures of the little creature looking cute in your area. He doesn't do much; he just bobs his head around and looks adorable. But we aren't complaining. This fun feature joins the recently launched The Mandalorian AR Experience for some of the newest 5G-enabled Android phones.

Source: Engadget