Google is gearing up to launch a pilot test for incorporating ads into its AI Overviews, part of the Google Search Generative Experience (SGE).
This announcement was made by Google’s Senior Vice President and Chief Business Officer, Philipp Schindler, during a recent earnings call. The initial testing phase will feature search and shopping ads within AI Overviews, targeted at U.S. users and marked as “sponsored” to align with relevant search queries and AI-generated content.
The inception of this advertising strategy was first revealed at Google Marketing Live, highlighting a significant pivot towards embedding more commercial elements within Google’s AI-enhanced search capabilities. The trial aims to collect feedback from users, advertisers, and publishers to refine and optimize the integration of ads.
This initiative is part of a larger strategic effort by Google to augment the search experience with AI, not only through ads but also through AI-driven recommendation ads and visual brand profile ads. These innovations are designed to deepen user engagement and deliver more personalised advertising experiences, indicating a transformative shift in how Google envisions the future of interactive and AI-powered search and advertising functions.
