The long-awaited addition of ads into Google AI Overviews seems to be starting. Early examples have been seen in U.S. mobile search results.
What’s happening. Over the weekend, James F. Gibbons, an advertiser from New York, spotted what may be one of the first ads in Google’s AI Overviews. He shared this screenshot on X:
The screenshot shows a paid listing integrated into AI Overview. This is a significant step in Google’s ad expansion strategy.
Where to find them:
- Ads in AI Overviews appear to be live in the U.S. and are limited to mobile search results.
- Availability may still be in the testing phase, so not all users will see them immediately.
Why we care. AI Overviews offer a new way to reach users directly in Google’s conversational AI responses. This could increase your visibility and engagement.
The purpose of AI overviews is to provide users with answers directly on the search results page (SERP). You should pay attention to how click-through rates compare to ads in the non-AI overview section of the SERP. This could impact how you optimize campaigns – though Google has not shared how to optimize for AI Overviews.
What’s next. Expect further announcements as Google refines ad placements and expands availability. If you’re in the U.S., try searching on mobile to spot these ads in action.
Bottom line. Google’s AI Overviews ads open up a new opportunity for brands. However, it also raises questions about the balance between user experience and ad integration.