Google Ads rolls out new Performance Max image optimization features

/dans
Google Ads logo on smartphone

Google Ads is introducing new user interface (UI)-only image optimization features, spotted last week, aimed at enhancing Performance Max campaigns, marking a shift in how advertisers can manage visual assets for better ad performance.

What’s new?

  • Landing page images: Google’s AI will now automatically pull relevant images from your ad’s landing page to dynamically insert into your ads. This aims to increase ad relevance and expand reach by tapping into more ad placements.
  • Image enhancements: Google AI can smartly improve your uploaded images by cropping them into different versions to unlock additional ad inventory and boost campaign results. Future updates may include advanced features like uncropping or animating images.

Automatic opt-in, but with caveats. Image Enhancements will be enabled by default for all Performance Max users.

  • Landing page Images will also be enabled by default, but only if dynamic image settings are active at the account level.

API users, take note. These new image features can only be managed through the Google Ads UI for now.

  • The Google Ads API doesn’t support viewing or changing these settings.
  • You can’t opt in or out via API; management must be done manually in the UI.
  • Existing API integrations will continue to function as normal for current supported features, but these new settings require direct user action within the Google Ads interface.

Why we care. Advertisers relying on API automation will need to adjust workflows to accommodate these UI-only features. The features can improve ad relevance and expand reach by automatically sourcing and enhancing visuals, potentially boosting campaign performance with less manual effort.

Google’s announcement. New UI-Only Image Optimization Features for Performance Max Campaigns