Google tinkering with sponsored links layout?

[Julie]

So, I am currently running an AdWords Campaign for one of my sites. And in testing the keywords to see what comes up on Google, I noticed a new layout. The sponsored links aren't on the side, but are instead above the search results. This in itself is not new, but what is new is that they don't have the blue background, or anything saying "sponsored links" right by it. It just says "sponsored links" on the right side of the page where the ads would normally be down the side. It looks like my ad is one of the search results almost.

Is anyone else seeing this? Cuz i wasn't seeing this earlier when I checked from a different location.

See screenshot:

[John Scott]

They are often above, no? I've been seeing them that way for years.

[Julie]

Above yeah, but usually they say sponsored link right by it....not all the way on the side of the page. At least that is how it is always on my computer.

[John Scott]

You see the new Google home page today?

[Julie]

I dunno, maybe things just show up differently for me. But usually they're clearly labeled, have a blue background, or are on the side of the page.

[Julie]

Originally Posted by JohnScott

You see the new Google home page today?

There's nothing new. It's the same as always.

[John Scott]

Ah, it's gone back to normal. Just a couple minutes ago it was different. Tiny little left nav on the home page.

[Julie]

Huh. Maybe they're testing something out around your parts.