I have a little theory that I was wondering whether anyone could verify for me: If you use Google Checkout, your Adwords ads appear with a little graphic on them, distinguishing them from the regular text only style that we have been used to for years now. Now, what I am guessing is this: Most internet users have not heard of Google Checkout or know what these graphics mean. However, the fact that they mark such a big change from the text-only style we are used to seeing next to the Google SERPs makes me wonder whether more people will click on these ads just iout of curiosity. Whether they will acutally buy from the site they land on is another question. So, is anyone out there using Google Checkout and advertising on Adwords and, if so, have you seen a higher CTR for your ads since they have been showing the Checkout graphic?
Since I don't sell anything (directly) I don't use google checkout, but I'm sure the litle cart helps to achieve a good CTR. I've seen a few ads with the cart and it definately looks different from the others and catches your eye.
I have yet to see one of these ads, and I don't use Google Checkout, either - but I can imagine that this would provide a significant boost to CTR, much like placing images next to AdSense ads. Yet another example of innovation by Google. Sam