Yesterday, Google AdWords confirmed that they are testing huge banner ads to appear on search result landing pages for branded queries.
The screenshot below posted by @SynrgyHQ shows an example of a Sponsored ad for Southwest Airlines.
Compared to the present day search results page for [Southwest Airlines]
According to an article posted on Search Engine Land:
- The banner is placed above what appears to be the organic listing. Taking up the majority of the above the fold real estate on search result pages. Giving searchers a branded search results experience.
- It is unclear how brands will pay for the massive banners to be added to their site (CPC or CPM).
- The test is only open to 30 advertisers and is only appearing in 5% of the search results.