Local Services Ads Partner Updates [September 2023]
Welcome to the September 2023 edition of Google’s Local Services Ads Partner Updates. Here’s what you need to know:
Update: LSA Ad features
Google’s Local Services Ads is continually testing and exploring ways to enhance the experience for advertisers and users. You may notice improvements to our user interface (UI) and ad format, along with occasional experiments to test new features before full deployment. Here are the latest updates:
- Launched: The maximum number of providers displayed for any search has increased to 20.
- Feature: On desktop, instead of showing 3 ads side by side, we may display 2 ads (similar to mobile).
- Feature: We are currently testing a new contact option that allows consumers to “request a call back.”
- Advertisers will receive callback requests as message leads, including a default text stating, “This consumer has requested a callback on XXX-XXX-XXXX,” along with any additional information provided by the consumer.
- To display the callback option on your ad, messaging must be enabled.
Update: Healthcare Business-level NPI no longer required; Insurance now easier to upload
There have been changes in the healthcare vertical:
- National Provider Identifier (NPI) numbers are no longer required at the Business level, and the option to add Business NPI has been removed from the Business Verification page.
- Individual physicians’ NPIs are still required and should be included when adding a new physician on the Business Verification page.
- Healthcare verticals now have separate uploads for General Liability insurance and Professional Liability (malpractice) insurance.
- If both general liability and professional liability insurance are on a single document, you may upload the document twice; there’s no need to merge them.
Update: Expanding your service area
Your LSA dashboard’s Profile & Budget section may recommend adding new service areas if Google believes broader targeting will be beneficial for your business.
New: Professional Services launches in the UK
Local Services Ads is now available for legal firms and estate agents in the United Kingdom. You can find more information in Google’s blog post.
New: Default Cover Photos have been removed
Google has eliminated the option for manual selection of cover photos. Instead, Google will automatically display the photo it deems most relevant and engaging. Any previously added “cover photo” will now be shown in the “others” photo album.
Have Questions?
If you have any inquiries or need further assistance, please consult the Local Services Ads on Google Help Page, or get in touch with our Local View team for comprehensive guidance.