PPC Weekly Digest on 18-22 of March 2024

Microsoft Adapts to Compete with Google Ads

In an effort to enhance user experience and facilitate easier navigation, Microsoft Advertising is undergoing a trial for a new user interface. According to Nicola Agius, writing on March 15, 2024, this new interface bears a strong resemblance to the latest Google Ads UI, incorporating a dual vertical menu system aimed at improving efficiency and usability. Additionally, the update introduces Copilot, an AI chat assistant, further integrated into the search functionality, underscoring Microsoft’s focus on creating a more intuitive and user-friendly platform. This move signals Microsoft’s intent to make their platform more appealing to marketers by reducing friction and making the transition between Google Ads and Microsoft Advertising smoother.

Bing’s Promotional Strategy Raises Eyebrows

On the same day, Nicola Agius reported a bold move by Microsoft, using pop-up ads within Google Chrome to encourage users to switch their default search engine to Bing. This strategy, aimed at promoting Bing AI and the Bing search engine, has stirred controversy among users, some of whom mistook the ads for malware. Despite the backlash, Microsoft defended the approach as a legitimate, one-time prompt offering users a choice to switch, highlighting the company’s broader aim to provide options and enhance competition in the search engine market. This tactic comes amid the Google antitrust trial, with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella emphasizing the company’s commitment to fostering a more competitive search market.

Meta Announces the End of CrowdTangle

Meta is set to discontinue CrowdTangle on August 14, 2024, Nicola Agius reported, marking a significant shift in the company’s approach to providing data and analytics tools. The platform, once a vital resource for marketers and publishers for trend analysis and post monitoring, will be phased out as Meta focuses on developing new research tools. Despite CrowdTangle’s popularity, the decision aligns with Meta’s response to controversies over data accuracy and the spread of divisive content. Meta emphasizes its commitment to evolving data-sharing products while adhering to privacy and regulatory standards, suggesting a move towards more controlled and transparent data tools.

Amazon’s Advertising Error Leads to Apology

Finally, Amazon found itself in a predicament after its AI advertising system mistakenly charged sellers for ads promoting products in regions where they couldn’t sell. Nicola Agius’s report from March 14, 2024, highlights the case of Rob Robinson, a seller of advanced gaming computers, who faced significant losses due to these misplaced ads. Amazon’s initial denial of the problem eventually gave way to an apology and a promise of refunds to the affected sellers, acknowledging the error and its impact on a small fraction of its seller community. This incident sheds light on the challenges and complexities of automated advertising systems, prompting Amazon to reassess and update its processes to prevent future errors.