Google has initiated a new experiment that integrates advertisements into search results generated by artificial intelligence powered by Gemini technology. This was reported by 9to5Google.
The first signs of this innovation were noted by SEO consultant Brody Clark. He claims that ads appear at the bottom of responses generated by the chatbot, labeled as "sponsored" content. Externally, these links are nearly indistinguishable from regular links generated by AI.
Currently, the new AI search interface lacks an option to hide these ad blocks. While Google previously announced the ability to hide sponsored results in traditional search, these settings do not seem to apply to the AI mode.
Google officials emphasized that this is merely a test announced in May of this year. They assure that the ads will not be shown to all users. The company also informed 9to5Google that there are no plans for a complete integration of ads into the AI mode yet. Nevertheless, this experiment indicates a search for monetization strategies for artificial intelligence services.
The testing of advertising in AI mode has already sparked discussions about the future of such solutions. Chatbots, currently positioned as personal assistants, may experience a negative shift in user perception due to the introduction of ad blocks in their responses.