Google’s AI summaries are now showing ads

James Hussey

If you’re a business owner, here’s an update worth noting: Google LLC is beginning to show ads within its “AI Mode” search results.

According to a recent report, the tech giant is quietly testing sponsored content at the end of AI-driven result, just like the ads you’re used to seeing in standard search.

There are a couple of interesting pieces for business leaders here. Firstly, the ads don’t replace organic results, they appear below them. Seecond, the rollout seems gradual and limited so far, but that means it could become a significant channel soon.

What does this development mean for your business?

Increased visibility opportunity

If you advertise online, this could open another valuable placement in Google’s ecosystem. Ads in AI mode may reach users in a new context, when they’re explicitly engaged in AI-driven search interactions.

Need for readiness

As this channel evolves, adapting your ad strategy to fit AI search formats (which might look different from traditional keyword-based ads) could provide first-mover advantage.

Watch for transparency & positioning

Reports indicate these ads are labelled, but the “hide sponsored results” option that exists in standard search doesn’t seem to be available in AI mode yet. It’s worth keeping an eye on how your business shows up in these new AI-driven results, and how your competitors are using the space as well. Small shifts in visibility could make a noticeable difference over time.

If you haven’t already factored AI-style search into your marketing plans, it’s a good moment to start exploring what it could mean for your business. Google is clearly moving in this direction, and early adopters usually benefit. Try out the new ad placements as they appear, and think about how your message lands when it’s placed inside an AI-generated response rather than a long list of search links.

The bottom line: the search landscape is evolving, and ads in AI mode are becoming part of it. Your business would benefit from being prepared rather than reactive.

For assistance on adjusting your marketing strategy to meet the current SEO and GEO requirements, please get in touch with our team at Engage Web right away.

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James Hussey

Digital Marketing Executive at Engage Web

Having once gone to school in the Burnage area of Manchester known for being the childhood home of Noel and Liam Gallagher, “Some Might Say” that James is a “Supersonic” presence within Engage Web, happily turning his hand to “Whatever” tasks his role throws at him.