Over the past few weeks Google has launched several new features for AdWords users. Some of them were announced louder than the others.
Let’s have a look at these new features including new campaign types, mobile app or new version of AdWords editor.
1. New advanced version of AdWords editor
The new fully-redesigned version 11 is now available for download globally. This redesign is said to be the biggest update since the release in 2006.
What is new
The updated version has improved bulk editing features and the option to have several accounts open side-by-side. This is a nice productivity hack as you can easily swap between accounts. The improved advanced search helps to find whatever you are looking for within the account along with a new type list panel for better account overview. Finally, the shared library is now available in Editor and the Editor comes with new undo and redo buttons. The new AdWords Editor presents these and many more new features in a completely redesigned interface.
Why you should download it
Older versions won’t be supported after April 2, 2015.
2. New campaign type – call-only campaigns
The mobile number isn’t just an addition or extra feature anymore. Call-only campaigns display a mobile number instead of a URL and the user is not led to the website but directly calls a shop or office instead.
When to use it
If you are a local business open to the public, you should consider this, especially if your customers are more likely to pick up the phone rather than visit your website.
Tip: Tailor your ads for phone calls with ad copy like “speak to a specialist today” or “call to make an appointment”.
3. Ad Customisers
This feature allows you to automatically add the information that you have, e.g. 30% off a specific product, you have 999 items available and the sale ends in 2 days. Very sweet!
The easiest to set-up is the countdown function. When creating a new ad, start typing {=COUNTDOWN} and you will be offered a widget that allows you to specify the end date. Other options require uploading a file with required information in a pre-defined structure.
Why to use it
Based on the study, it can significantly increase your CTR and customers’ interaction plus it is very easy to set-up.
4. AdWords app for Android
Always busy and on the go? Even if not, this is a must have app. The AdWords app allows you to quickly check if your account is doing well on the go or during a holiday if needed. The app doesn’t have all the features, but the most important ones are included. The dashboard displays all primary metrics: impressions, clicks, click-through rate as well as cost and conversions. You can view these metrics per ad group, by day of week and by device. Importantly, you are able to update bids and budgets from the app. An app for iOS will be available in the future as well.
5. Google Trusted Stores
Google Trusted Stores is a free certification program for online merchants and businesses. As a trusted store you are given a badge that is displayed on the website site and on Google Shopping. Importantly, the qualification comes with a purchase protection by Google on orders of up to $1,000.
How to become trusted store
It’s simple. You need to create an account and add two snippets of code to your website.
Why to apply
Reviews collected through Google Trusted Stores help you qualify for seller ratings, which show within AdWords ads and Google Shopping. It’s also possible to show that your business is a Google Trusted Store through the AdWords review extension.
How to stay up-to-date
These features are just a fraction of the total amount of features that have been released. Did you know that there were over 200 products and features launched in AdWords last year? With so much going on, it’s hard to keep track of all. Luckily, Google provide a solution for that: The New AdWords features page. This page is definitely worth bookmarking to stay on top.
If you would like some help with running your PPC campaigns and trying out the latest features, please feel free to get in touch.
