Google appears to be following in the footsteps of social media giants Twitter and Meta by testing out a blue check mark feature for verified advertisers on their search ads. The blue label features a distinct blue circle with ridges and a checkmark inside it, as seen on Twitter and other social media platforms.
The checkmarks are a part of the Google advertiser verification programme, which is aimed at boosting transparency and reducing fraudulent ads. According to reports, the checkmarks were first spotted by an SEO analyst, Khushal Bherwani, who shared images of the test on social media.
While Google has not confirmed whether the blue checkmarks will be a permanent feature, it’s clear that the search giant is taking steps to increase the legitimacy of its advertising platform.
Google has not yet made any official statement about the blue check marks that may appear on verified ads. The new feature could potentially make the verified ads more noticeable, increasing the chances of higher click-through rates and conversions.
This feature is part of Google’s ongoing advertiser verification program. In other news, Mark Zuckerberg recently announced that Facebook and Instagram will soon offer a paid subscription plan for users in the US.
The “Meta Verified” plan, which was initially introduced in Australia and New Zealand, provides a verified label, improved impersonation protection, and immediate access to customer support. The monthly fee for the subscription package is $11.99 for the web and $14.99 for mobile.
In February, Meta revealed that it was experimenting with paid authentication for Facebook and Instagram, taking inspiration from Elon Musk’s run Twitter.
