Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article
TL;DR Summary of Google Experiments with Button Colors and Shapes in Sponsored Search Listings
Google is currently testing variations in the design of sponsored listing buttons within its search results, featuring different colors and shapes. These include both pill-shaped and square buttons, with blueish and gray highlights appearing on the same page. The inconsistency in button styling on a single results page is unusual and was first spotted by a keen observer, highlighting Google’s ongoing UI experimentation.
Optimixed’s Overview: Google’s UI Experimentation with Sponsored Ad Buttons Reveals Design Variations
Exploring Google’s Button Design Tests in Sponsored Search Results
Google is actively experimenting with its user interface by testing different button designs in the sponsored listings on search result pages. These tests showcase a mix of button shapes and colors that appear simultaneously, which is uncommon for Google’s typically consistent design language.
Key Observations
- Button Shapes: Both pill-shaped and square buttons are present on the same search page.
- Color Variations: Buttons are displayed in a blueish hue and gray, with color changes visible on hover states.
- Inconsistency: The simultaneous use of different button styles on one page suggests an A/B test or UI experiment.
- User Spotting: This design test was first noticed by a user named Anthony Higman, showing the importance of user feedback in UI development.
Implications for Advertisers and Users
These variations may impact user interaction with sponsored ads, potentially influencing click-through rates depending on which button design is more visually appealing or intuitive. Advertisers should stay informed about these UI changes as they could affect ad performance metrics.
