Google Ads begin surfacing inside AI Mode as tests expand

More users are now spotting Google Ads embedded directly in Google’s AI Mode results, a sign that Google’s months-long test is quietly accelerating.

What we’re seeing. Google confirmed ad testing in AI Mode on desktop back in May, but sightings have jumped of late:

• Greg Sterling shared a screenshot of an HVAC repair query and said this was the first AI Mode ad he saw in the wild.

• Brodie Clark replicated the behavior soon after, noting “the time has come” as he shared multiple screenshots of ads inside generated answers.

• Barry Schwartz reported ongoing reports of people running into AI Mode ads on Search Engine Roundtable.

Why we care. Ads showing up inside AI Mode mark a major shift in how Google blends sponsored content with AI-generated answers. The change could reshape visibility, click-through rates, and the overall search experience. Early adopters could benefit from less competition, new formats, and stronger engagement. This is the clearest sign yet that AI Mode is becoming a real ad channel, not just an experiment.

Between the lines. The expansion signals Google is moving to normalize ads inside AI experiences, likely ahead of a wider Search rollout.

Bottom line. What started as a small experiment is now appearing more frequently. Advertisers should expect AI Mode to become a mainstream ad surface in Google Search.

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