Google has expanded its offering Maximum power (PMax) campaigns by adding support for vertical 9:16 image adsallowing brands to create mobile-friendly visuals that fit naturally into platforms like YouTube Shorts and Discover. This update makes it easier for advertisers to target users in mobile-first areas where vertical content dominates.
A step towards mobile-first advertising: Google Performance Max
Google Performance Max now accepts the same “Story Image Ads” Format first seen in demand generation campaigns earlier this year. The new feature was spotted by Google Ads expert Thomas Eccel, who confirmed that vertical image ads are rolling out across PMax.
Specifications:
- Minimum size: 600 × 1067 pixels
- Recommended size: 1080×1920 pixels
- Maximum file size: 5MB
Although Google has not officially confirmed all placement details, these ads are expected to appear in YouTube Shorts Image Placementssimilar to demand gen campaigns.
Marketing experts say this update is more than just a creative tweak. Phil ByrneFounder of Positive Sparks Marketing LTD, noted that it helps advertisers “meet users where they naturally consume content.” With platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels and Shorts shaping mobile behavior, vertical visuals are now essential to attract attention.
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Mike RyanHead of Ecommerce Insights, added that PMax Shorts is already monetizing with “GMC Image Shorts,” which uses multiple product images for remarketing and personalization. This move signals Google’s greater investment in short, purchasable mediastrengthening Performance Max’s position as a complete solution for automated, AI-driven ad delivery.
With this update, Google Performance Max continues to evolve, providing advertisers with new creative tools to improve engagement and performance in Google’s growing mobile ecosystem.
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