This Ignite Friday recap covers Google's test of traditional search campaigns inside AI Mode, Amazon's pilot to sell ChatGPT ads through Amazon DSP, and new data showing AI Overviews now trigger on 48% of four-word searches. It also rounds up updates across Reddit, LinkedIn, Pinterest, streaming, and local search advertising.
A short editorial from the VEONIB team on why this content matters.
Google's AI Mode ad test proves AI search isn't killing search advertising, it's reshaping where intent gets captured. Advertisers who adapt targeting to full-question queries will win visibility.
Most recaps list the news; we connect it to an AEO strategy, showing how AI Overviews, ChatGPT ads, and zero-click trends all reward content that answers complete questions.
Watch this if you run paid or organic search. Audit your keyword strategy for question-based intent and test AI Mode or ChatGPT placements against your own CPA goals.
A Google test allowing traditional search campaigns with exact and phrase match keywords to serve text ads inside AI Mode.
Ads appearing inside ChatGPT, now purchasable by some US advertisers through Amazon DSP on CPC or CPM.
Google's AI-generated search summaries that now appear on roughly 48% of four-word queries and most question-based searches.
Google searches that end without a click, now estimated at 68% of US queries.
Google's automated campaign type, now extended with local customer optimization for businesses with physical locations.
Reddit's AI-powered automated ad campaigns reporting 17% lower CPA and 27% more conversions.
Amazon's demand-side platform, now used to buy and manage ChatGPT ad campaigns for US advertisers.
Pinterest's automated shopping campaign format, guided by a four-step optimization playbook.
What is Google testing with search ads in AI Mode?
Google is running a small experiment where exact and phrase match keywords can trigger traditional text ads inside AI Mode when search intent is clear and direct.
Do advertisers need to switch to Performance Max to appear in Google AI Mode?
Not necessarily. The test suggests traditional search campaigns can still earn visibility in AI Mode, so a full migration to Performance Max or AI Max may not be required.
How can advertisers buy ChatGPT ads?
Some US advertisers can access ChatGPT ad inventory through Amazon DSP, buying on CPC or CPM, with Amazon managing optimization and OpenAI controlling ad placement.
Are ChatGPT ads performing well?
Performance is still unclear. CPCs range from under $3 to around $13, and OpenAI only provides basic reporting, so advertisers should benchmark against their own acquisition costs.
How often do AI Overviews appear in Google Search?
AI Overviews trigger on about 48% of four-word searches, 92% of 'why' queries, and roughly 86% of 'what' queries.
What percentage of Google searches end without a click?
About 68% of US Google searches now end without a click, up from 49% in 2019.
How do AI Overviews affect shopping ad performance?
Shopping ads may get fewer impressions when AI Overviews appear, but click-through rates tend to rise, suggesting stronger intent from remaining viewers.
Is traditional e-commerce search still important?
Yes. 34% of shoppers still use the on-site search bar for products, versus only 9% who turn to AI chat assistants first.
What new local advertising tools did Google launch?
Local customer optimization for Performance Max prioritizes nearby customers, and store sales data manager connects CRM or Sheets data to optimize for in-store revenue.
How should B2B brands reach younger buyers?
LinkedIn research shows 86% of younger buyers trust peer recommendations and expert voices, so short-form video and employee or expert content matter more than corporate posts.