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Search Max

Last November Google had announced a pilot called Search Max this is just another way how they are going to expand the reach for advertisers!


What is Search Max?

Search Max is designed to adapt to the ever-changing search landscape by delivering smarter, more effective ads. This innovative feature combines Search Term Matching and Text & URL Optimization to help marketers broaden their reach, improve user relevance, and drive higher conversions. Here’s how it works:


1. Search Term Matching

Search Max utilizes a blend of Broad Match, Dynamic Search Ads, and Asset-Based Targeting to connect your ads with the most relevant audience. By leveraging:

  • Keywords
  • Creative assets
  • URLs from your website it extends the reach of your campaigns beyond traditional keyword targeting. Marketers can easily switch this feature on or off at the campaign or ad group level, allowing for greater customization and control.

2. Text and URL Optimization

This feature uses AI to dynamically update ad text and replace landing pages based on user intent. It ensures a consistent experience by:

  • Generating relevant headlines tailored to each search query.
  • Directing users to optimized landing pages that best match their interests. This capability enhances ad performance while maintaining alignment with your brand’s voice and guidelines.

Key “Benefits” of Search Max

1. Expanded Reach

Search Max’s keywordless approach identifies additional opportunities by tapping into search queries your current strategy might miss.

2. Enhanced Relevance

Dynamic adjustments to text and landing pages ensure users receive the most relevant information, fostering better engagement and conversion rates.

3. Performance Transparency

With improved reporting, marketers gain deeper insights into:

  • Keyword and query performance
  • Incremental matches driven by Search Max
  • Ad asset optimization impacts

How to Get Started with Search Max (still in beta)

Getting started with Search Max is simple. Once enabled within your campaign settings, you’ll have options to:

  • Toggle Search Term Matching and Text & URL Optimization features.
  • Customize ad group settings for more granular control.
  • Exclude specific URLs to refine targeting further.

Recommended Testing Strategies

For optimal results, Google suggests experimenting with various configurations:

  1. Search Term Matching only: Evaluate whether expanded reach improves campaign performance.
  2. Text and URL Optimization only: Analyze the impact of dynamic ad text and landing pages on conversions.
  3. Combine Both Features (Recommended): Maximize the benefits by activating both features in tandem and track performance improvements using Conversion Lift Studies.

This tool is gonna be interesting for advertisers who have enough conversions, solid conversion tracking and good URLs.