What is the main characteristic of display ads?

Display ads are primarily defined by their ability to incorporate various formats, which include not just text, but also images and videos. This versatility allows advertisers to create visually engaging content that captures the attention of the audience across different online platforms. By including multimedia elements, display ads can convey more information and evoke stronger emotional responses than simple text-based ads.

When display ads utilize images and videos, they can better demonstrate the product, show usage scenarios, or evoke a specific mood, making them more attractive and effective in driving user engagement. This characteristic sets them apart from other advertising formats like search ads, which primarily rely on text. The ability to combine multiple formats in display advertising enhances its appeal and effectiveness in attracting potential customers.

In contrast, the other options reflect limitations or inaccuracies regarding display ads. For example, restricting display ads to text, suggesting they are only found in printed media, or stating they are confined to social media platforms does not accurately represent the broad application and multimedia capabilities of display advertising in the digital landscape.