Google always has something new just over the horizon. This could be Google’s latest innovation:
Google tests putting images into search ads and new pricing
According to the Internet Retailer website Google has a big plan. The writer says, “Google’s new Product Listing Ads program is being tested by several online retailers as a new way to get paid search ads featuring product images in Google.com search results. Retailers are charged only when they make a sale, not on each click.” Interesting, huh?
A spokesperson for Google said, “We’re trying to figure out what type of information is most useful to searchers on Google.com. At the same time the Product Listing Ads program offers retailers a way to advertise their products in the results of searches conducted on Google.com without having to engage in bidding for keywords.”
Holiday Web Shoppers Hit Social Networks
The results of a study that is of particular interest to affiliate marketers has been posted over on the eMarketer website. The writer says, “According to research conducted by the Opinion Research Corporation and Yesmail, 27% of online shoppers who plan to both research and buy holiday gifts online this year will look for ideas about what friends and family want on sites such as Facebook. And nearly one-half (45%) will use social networks to research items, compare prices and look for offers.” If you’re not already utilizing the power of social networks, you’d better get with the program.
Bing Climbs In Search Market Share
I like Bing! It hasn’t yet replaced Google for me but it’s gaining ground. I’m glad to know I’m not alone. According to Laurie Sullivan, posting on the Media Post Publications website, “Microsoft continued a steady uphill climb in gaining U.S. search market share in October, according to comScore. Analysts say the uptick is partly attributable to features in its search engine Bing, released earlier this year.”
Newspapers Hold Out Hope for Paid Models
What would the online world do without hardworking journalists to break the news for the rest of us? Just keep going, a recent study by the American Press Institute’s study reveals. We may not mind being left in the dark.
“News providers were more likely to say their content was “very valuable,” while readers tended to settle on “somewhat valuable.” Even bigger variation exists in perceptions of how easy it would be to replace online newspaper content, with readers more confident that they could live without the information currently provided.”
American Express targets web and mobile payments with $300 million deal
If you thought you were addicted to your mobile phone now, look out: AmEx is planning to make it a whole lot more fun. The credit company is planning to purchase Revolution Money, a young payment card network, and use it to develop new ways to help consumers pay online and through their mobile phones. Now you can do all your holiday shopping while you’re on the bus.
