Are text ads a distinct ad category?

Yes, text ads are a distinct ad category. They provide a broader scope of messaging, as well as greater control and targeting options compared to other types of search ads. This categorization is supported by an internal Google document indicating that text ads and product ads supplement each other despite being different types of advertisements[1].

According to the information, keyword matching specifically applies to text ads, and Google introduced parts of this matching process in 2012, allowing advertisers to opt out of it. Furthermore, experts like Hal Varian and Jerry Dischler from Google confirm that text ads offer unique features and flexibility, distinguishing them from shopping ads[2][1].