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New graphics in Google results
Google search results now include graphics. For the first time, as far as I know, the "text ads" on the right side include graphic links to Google Checkout.
For example, a search on fedders (an air-conditioning manufacturer) yields...
Given how zealously the company stuck to its all-text design for so many years, this seems like a significant change.
With Google being almost entirely text only, I think the move toward badging Ads which feature Google Checkout may be to encourage AdWords advertisers to integrate with Google Checkout.
With little differentiation on the page, having your ad be the one on the page associated with a 'stand out' element would seem beneficial.
Well..you're about 6 months late to the party. This has been going on for a long time and it's Google's attempt to "force" (though they'd say promote) its Google Checkout feature. Still, we're seeing Google start to stray for its core competencies which could be worrisome.