Google Testing New Local SERP Format?

[ChrisDesrochers]

I spotted this weird, single column SERP this morning. No OneBox, but rather a Knowledge Graphesque map box. Any insights?

 

[Tim Colling]

I have seen that before. Basically, they're foregoing any ad placement. And if you google for someone with a knowledge graph, like Bill Stern, you will see that KG in the right column.

Seems to be related to searching for a person by name. I wonder why they would forego the opportunity to place ads on that sort of SERP.

 

[Linda Buquet]

Thanks for sharing Chris.

Seems to be related to searching for a person by name. I wonder why they would forego the opportunity to place ads on that sort of SERP.

Maybe due to Christmas and Drs being closed today, everyone has ads paused?

 

[Tim Colling]

Maybe, but it seems to be for other types of searches by persons' names. I think this may be more of a thing related to searches for people by name. Could be an experiment, could be just a bug or something, or could be some odd policy change by Google. Or something completely different. Or worse yet, something mandated by their lawyers. (just joking about that last one)

 

[Tim Colling]

Search for your own name, Linda, and I see the same thing. Do you?

 

[Linda Buquet]

Nope don't see it for my name. And for my name + city see the normal side knowledge panel.

 

[Tim Colling]

Hmm.. Maybe I'm not understanding the point being made by the OP. Here's what I see for your name and for your name plus san marcos. They are both ad-free.

Name:




Name plus san marcos:

 

[Linda Buquet]

Hmm.. Maybe I'm not understanding the point being made by the OP. Here's what I see for your name and for your name plus san marcos. They are both ad-free.

Oh no Tim sorry. I thought you were talking about the single column with the map on top like Chris showed in the top screenshot. That one got a map because it's a Dr. But a regular person would not get a map.

I would not expect to see ads for my name. Don't think anyone would bid on my name.
There likely are not many searches for it.

 

[Tim Colling]

I see. Thanks!