Google to Enhance Ads in Maps

Beyond the traditional paid placement, Google Local is testing embedded ads in maps that use new icons and branding. For example, a search in New York for "booksellers" yielded little coffee icons in addition to the regular blue pins. Click the icons and a box layers over with a Barnes and Noble graphic under the words, "sponsored link." Link: Blog.searchenginewatch.com – Google Test New Image Ads in Google Local