Google Maps for Android and iOS adds 'Sponsored' to search results

Google Maps for Android and iOS Launches Relevant Ads Feature

Beijing Time, August 9th morning news - Google introduced so-called "relevant ads" on Thursday while upgrading its Google Maps app for Android and iOS. When users search for certain information, these ads appear at the bottom of the screen.

These ads include a title and a link to get directions. Users can simply click on the ad or swipe up to see more information. Once the user clicks to get location details, the advertiser will be charged according to the standard CPC (cost per click).

After a user clicks on an ad and gets the location details, they will see various pieces of information such as address, phone number, photos, reviews, etc. Businesses that purchase these ads can offer multiple services to potential customers: If a user only saves the business information for later viewing, shares it with friends, or starts navigation, Google won't charge the advertiser; However, if the user needs to get the location details, get directions, click to call, or click on the ad title, the advertiser will need to pay Google.

Google points out that for each ad displayed, the AdWords system will charge for no more than two clicks. The total number of free clicks can be found in the company's AdWords account, while paid clicks can be seen under "click types."

Although Google has entered many industries, advertising remains the company's primary source of revenue. Therefore, it was entirely expected that Thursday's upgrade would focus on exploring new ways to generate income from ads, especially in the mobile sector.

Google claims this is a brand-new ad experience, which is more engaging for users and more effective for advertisers.