Contextual ads are advertisements that appear based on the content or context of the webpage where they are displayed. These ads automatically analyze the content and metadata of a webpage and match it with advertisers’ needs using a keyword or domain targeting filter.
There are various types of contextual ads, including pop ads, zero-click ads, and in-text ads. Let’s explore each type in more detail.
1. Pop Ads
Also known as On-Click Ads, pop ads are full-page advertisements that open in a new browser window or tab when a user clicks on any part of the publisher’s website.
Types of Pop Ads
Pop-up Ads
Pop-up ads open on top of the active browser window. While they capture the user’s attention immediately, they can also disrupt the user experience, leading to many browsers, including Google Chrome, banning pop-ups. Despite this, some traffic providers still offer them.
Pop-under Ads
Pop-under ads open beneath the active browser window, allowing for a less intrusive user experience. The user only sees the ad when they close the active tab or browser.
Pop ads are typically paid on a Pay Per View (PPV) basis, making them one of the cheapest traffic types available, with some networks selling them for as low as $0.0001 per pop. Run-of-Network (RON) pop traffic is even cheaper since it is not filtered by keywords, making it ideal for those seeking high volume.
2. Zero-Click Ads
Zero-Click ads are full-page advertisements that redirect the user to the advertiser’s landing page without requiring a click. These are also known as domain redirect ads or direct navigation ads. They activate under the following circumstances:
– The user types a misspelling of their intended website destination in the URL bar.
– The domain registration of the intended website has expired.
– The website no longer exists.
Like pop ads, zero-click ads are paid per view.
3. In-Text Ads
In-text advertising involves certain words or phrases on a webpage being underlined and hyperlinked. When a user hovers their mouse over these underlined words, a small box appears showing ads related to the word or phrase. This is also known as inline advertising.
The pop-up ads can range from related products to advertorials and typically include a Call to Action button to encourage users to visit the offer’s landing page. Websites with double-underlined words or phrases are likely utilizing in-text ads.
