Are Google Versatile Text Ads responsive search advertisements?

Steve Plimmer posted a screenshot from the Google Ads Console changelog showing how Google named the RSAs, Response Search Ads, and Rich Text Ads. Wondering if Google is going to rebrand RSA-responsive search ads to Rich VTA text ads, or if Google originally named them that internally and has refrained from removing some references?

He shared this screenshot Twitter and wrote: “Based on reviewing change history data in Google Ads, it looks like RSAs will soon be rebranded as ‘Versatile Text Ads’.”

I’m guessing it’s just an old name for this type of ad?

Interesting, but no, the account I’m looking at in the screenshot is in the US. It’s entirely possible that they won’t be renamed, but that’s how changes usually occur before or instead of public announcements.

— Steve Plimmer (@StevePlimmer) January 7, 2022

I don’t expect them to drop the RSA name…

forum discussion below Twitter.

To update:

Hey Barry, I revisited the same change report screen and they have returned. I’m relieved to report that this was a false alarm. #ppcchat pic.twitter.com/rU9te7VvGr

— Steve Plimmer (@StevePlimmer) January 14, 2022