Google gave me a warning for having images next to ads so I removed them. The result was a 3-4% reduction in CTR, and about a 20% reduction in ecpm and overall earnings. Just thought the numbers were interesting so I'd share them
That much precedence huh? Cool!, you do know that you can add a little border around the image/ad to comply with Google's guidelines right?
I think its for the best. I think tricking people into clicking ads on't do anyone any good in the long run.
Having images next to your ads isn't necesarily tricking them into thinking they're not ads. I use them to draw attention, but they're still clearly ads. You can see them at celebritypicturesandnews.com if you want to see what I mean. Interesting numbers though. Feedback left
Not true. Google is cracking down and they specifically asked me to remove the images. I'm not going to push them and risk losing the account.
I agree. I don't think images are any more deceiving than some of the blending techniques endorsed by Google. They make the rules though...