How does Google Ads auction-time bidding differ from Search Ads 360 intraday bidding?

Analysis of Correct Answer(s)

The correct option accurately describes the fundamental difference in the bidding frequency and mechanism between the two systems.

• Google Ads auction-time bidding (ATB) is a real-time process. It uses a wide range of contextual signals (like device, location, time of day, etc.) to calculate an optimal bid for every single auction a user's ad is eligible for. This high-frequency, per-auction optimization is its key feature.

• Search Ads 360 intraday bidding is a feature of SA360 bid strategies that performs periodic adjustments. It analyzes campaign performance and adjusts bids and bid adjustments several times throughout the day (typically 4 times a day). This is more frequent than daily adjustments but is not real-time like Google's ATB.

Analysis of Incorrect Options

• The first option incorrectly reverses the definitions, claiming SA360 is real-time and Google Ads is periodic.

• The second option is misleading. While both systems manage bid adjustments, this statement doesn't capture the core distinction between the timing of ATB and intraday bidding. The primary difference is the frequency and granularity of the bid changes.

• The fourth option incorrectly assigns platform capabilities. Search Ads 360 is the platform that manages portfolio bid strategies across multiple search engines, while Google Ads ATB is what sets precise bids for every auction. This option swaps their primary functions.