Google’s AI views may show ads to some users
Google has reportedly started showing ads on AI Overviews, the company’s artificial intelligence (AI) search experience powered by Gemini. The feature, previously known as Search Generative Experience (SGE), launched in the US earlier this year. In August, it was expanded to six additional countries, including India. According to a report, the tech giant has started displaying relevant ads at the bottom of the interface. Currently the ads are only shown to some users, but there is a good chance that they will be shown on all AI overviews in the future.
Google AI overviews start showing ads
The edge reports that the Mountain View-based tech giant has rolled out ads in its AI listings. The move is not surprising, just as the company has been testing ads since May. It appears that the company has decided on the placement and nature of the ads.
According to the publication, these ads are based on the search query sought. This means that when a user searches for the best ballpoint pen, the AI-powered search experience first shows a list of factors to consider when purchasing a ballpoint pen. Below that, however, users will now see a ‘sponsored’ section where similar pens can appear with a clickable purchase link.
However, it appears that these ads are not added thoughtlessly. Google spokesperson Craig Ewer told The Verge that the ads on AI Overviews will only be visible if a search query has a “commercial angle.” What this probably means is that an academic question is unlikely to result in a sponsored product.
One of the reasons behind the rollout of the AI Overviews ads is said to be Google’s belief that the feature can efficiently connect relevant companies, products and services with those who may need them. However, the ads are currently only shown to US users on smartphones. There’s no word from the company on when these ads will roll out in other regions.
In August, Google added a URL icon to the end of each paragraph in the summary. These icons clearly indicate the relevant websites mentioned in the information. Moreover, the specific sentence from the source is also highlighted. The tech giant said it found that specific placement and format to drive the maximum traffic to the source website.
