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Writer's pictureSotirios Seridis

How to Exclude Mobile App Placements from Performance Max Campaigns in Google Ads

Performance Max campaigns in Google Ads are a useful tool for boosting your advertising reach across several channels. However, eliminating particular mobile app placements is a great optimization option if you want more control over where your ads show. By removing specific mobile application categories, you can concentrate your efforts and ensure that your advertisements are only displayed where they are most relevant. This quick tutorial will show you how to exclude mobile app placements from your Google Ads' Performance Max campaigns, allowing you to improve your targeting and obtain better results.






How to Exclude Mobile App Placements from Performance Max Campaigns (Google Ads)


  1. Login to your Google Ads account

  2. Navigate to Tools (left-hand-side menu)

  3. Select Exlcusions List under the Shared library drodown menu

  4. Select Placement exclusions list

  5. Click the "+"symbol and select New list

  6. Select App categories you

  7. Choose to exclude either all or selected categories under Apple App Store and Google Play




Frequently Asked Questions on Excluding Mobile App Placements from Performance Max Campaigns (Google Ads)


What are mobile app placements?


Mobile app placements are advertising spaces within mobile applications where your ads can appear. These can include banner ads, video ads, or interactive ads that users see while using mobile apps. Think of them as digital billboards inside smartphone applications.




Why should I consider excluding mobile app placements?


There are several compelling reasons:


  • Improve ad relevance by showing ads in more suitable contexts

  • Reduce wasted spending on low-performing placements

  • Protect your brand from appearing in inappropriate apps

  • Focus your budget on placements that drive better results

  • Increase overall campaign performance metrics like CTR and conversion rates




How does excluding mobile app placements affect campaign performance?


Excluding mobile app placements can have both positive and negative effects:


Potential Benefits:

  • Higher click-through rates

  • Better conversion rates

  • More efficient use of budget

  • Improved return on ad spend (ROAS)


Possible Drawbacks:

  • Reduced overall impression volume

  • Potentially smaller reach if too many exclusions are applied




Can I test the impact of mobile app exclusions before applying them permanently?


Yes, you can test the impact by:


  • Creating a duplicate campaign with different exclusions

  • Implementing exclusions gradually

  • Monitoring performance metrics before and after changes

  • Documenting the results over a meaningful time period





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