Google Ads news

New in PMax: “Apply Theme to Asset Group”

New in PMax: “Apply Theme to Asset Group” 👀 Google now lets you apply seasonal themes like Black Friday, Christmas, summer sale, back to school, Valentine’s Day, and more.

Thanks for sharing Thomas Eccel.

Shopping checkout

Emmanuel Flossie discovered that Google Shopping Checkout Links are now available in the the following additional countries: Indonesia, France, Mexico, Argentina, Israel and Australia.

New CTA Test

Arpan Banerjee discovered these new CTA buttons for Google Ads!

60 Seconds

Emirhan Bayutmuş discovered that Google Ads has added a new option under Premier reach (video reservation). Now, non-skippable in-stream ads can be up to 60 seconds long. This feature is currently in beta.

Text disclaimer

Google Ads has introduced Text Disclaimer assets for Search campaigns, allowing mandatory legal or compliance text of up to 90 characters to appear consistently in responsive ads.

The asset does not affect Ad Strength, works with AI Max, and is especially useful for regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, insurance, and legal services.

Thanks for sharing Yash Mandlesha!

Pmax credit

VIVEK GUPTA discovered that Google is again promoting Pmax with Ad credit!

20k credit

Anthony Higman discovered that Google is now show 20k in ad credit!

Audience reporting

Thomas Eccel & Yash Mandlesha discovered that audience reporting in Pmax is now live!

AI Summary

Google is testing the placement of AI-generated summaries in Google Ads sponsored results, positioned just below the description. Thanks for sharing Hana Kobzová, Barry Schwartz & Darcy Burk.

Top Insights

Google Fully Launched the “Top Insights” Open Beta. Thanks for sharing Aleksejus Podpruginas!

Changes to Target-Based Bid Strategies

Starting August 17, 2026, Google Ads will update target-based bidding so campaigns optimize more closely to the set Target CPA or Target ROAS, even when budgets change.

Campaigns that are limited by budget and currently perform better than their targets may see efficiency decline unless targets are adjusted. For example, a campaign with a $10 Target CPA currently achieving $5 CPA may move closer to $10 CPA after the update.

Advertisers should review campaigns that use target-based bidding, are or were budget-limited, and outperform their targets. Google will not automatically change budgets or targets.

From July 6, 2026, the Bid Target Adjustment Tool will help advertisers review recent performance and update targets.

Advertisers can keep current targets, match recent performance, set custom targets, change bidding strategies, or increase budgets. Google recommends allowing enough budget to scale and waiting one to two conversion cycles after budget changes before evaluating results.

App campaigns, Video Reach, and Video View campaigns will keep the previous behavior. Hotel and Display campaigns already use the updated behavior.

New Banner

Arpan Banerjee discovered that Google is now showing that starting on 17 August 2026, campaigns with bid targets (e.g. a CPA or ROAS target) will provide more consistent performance when limited by budget, even after budget adjustments.

Unsubscribe

Emmanuel Flossie & Hana Kobzová discovered that Google Ads Users Can Now Unsubscribe From Reps.

New Google Tag Manager Version 🚨

It looks like Google is rolling out the new Google Tag Manager version; this could be the reason why it’s super slow today!

Serp correction

It looks like Google is testing the “Included Or Missing Words” Organic SERP Feature Now Directly In Paid Ads. Thanks for sharing Anthony Higman.

Merchant Center Change

Merchant Center for Agencies is introducing simpler, more secure account management. Agencies can now link client accounts in a few clicks, manage access from one centralized view, and assign Admin or Standard user roles to better protect client data.

ABS

Google Ads’ Attributed Brand Search (ABS) conversions show when users search for a brand after seeing an ad, even without clicking.

They currently work across Demand Gen and YouTube placements, including YouTube, Discover, and Gmail, and must be enabled through a Google rep.

Credit to Dario Zannoni for sharing the breakdown.

Text disclaimer

Google Ads has introduced Text Disclaimer assets for Search campaigns, allowing mandatory legal or compliance text of up to 90 characters to appear consistently in responsive ads.

The asset does not affect Ad Strength, works with AI Max, and is especially useful for regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, insurance, and legal services.

Thanks for sharing Yash Mandlesha!

Pmax credit

VIVEK GUPTA discovered that Google is again promoting Pmax with Ad credit!

20k credit

Anthony Higman discovered that Google is now show 20k in ad credit!

Audience reporting

Thomas Eccel & Yash Mandlesha discovered that audience reporting in Pmax is now live!

AI Summary

Top Insights

Google Fully Launched the “Top Insights” Open Beta. Thanks for sharing Aleksejus Podpruginas!

Changes to Target-Based Bid Strategies

Starting August 17, 2026, Google Ads will update target-based bidding so campaigns optimize more closely to the set Target CPA or Target ROAS, even when budgets change.

Advertisers should review campaigns that use target-based bidding, are or were budget-limited, and outperform their targets. Google will not automatically change budgets or targets.

From July 6, 2026, the Bid Target Adjustment Tool will help advertisers review recent performance and update targets.

App campaigns, Video Reach, and Video View campaigns will keep the previous behavior. Hotel and Display campaigns already use the updated behavior.

New Banner

Unsubscribe

Emmanuel Flossie & Hana Kobzová discovered that Google Ads Users Can Now Unsubscribe From Reps.

New Google Tag Manager Version 🚨

It looks like Google is rolling out the new Google Tag Manager version; this could be the reason why it’s super slow today!

Serp correction

It looks like Google is testing the “Included Or Missing Words” Organic SERP Feature Now Directly In Paid Ads. Thanks for sharing Anthony Higman.

Merchant Center Change

ABS

Google Ads’ Attributed Brand Search (ABS) conversions show when users search for a brand after seeing an ad, even without clicking.

They currently work across Demand Gen and YouTube placements, including YouTube, Discover, and Gmail, and must be enabled through a Google rep.

Credit to Dario Zannoni for sharing the breakdown.

France Crypto

Starting July 1, 2026, Google will require crypto exchange and wallet advertisers in France to be authorized as CASPs under MiCA. Google will no longer accept France’s AMF DASP registration because the country’s transitional period has expired.

OpenAI Update

New OpenAI Ads update by Menachem Ani Ⓜ️.

Tag Manager Update

VIVEK GUPTA discovered that Google Tag Manager is now showing a new “Guided Setup” card for Google Ads Purchase Conversion setup.

Google Pics

VIVEK GUPTA discovered that Google has added a new option called “Google Pics” in Google Drive.

Google Mobile Ads Next-Gen SDK

Google Mobile Ads Next-Gen SDK is now the preferred Android SDK for Google AdMob and Google Ad Manager, while the previous Google Mobile Ads SDK has moved to legacy status.

The rewritten SDK is designed to improve performance, stability, and the developer experience.Legacy SDK version 25.x.x will remain supported until June 30, 2027, after which technical support will end. It is scheduled for sunset on June 30, 2028, when ads may stop serving and outdated SDK usage could prevent app releases.

Developers are encouraged to migrate using Google’s integration and migration guides, sample applications, or the new AI-assisted migration skill for Android projects.

Google Tag Manager

Google Tag Manager has updated how it treats containers installed through unsupported paths such as /gtag/js or /gtag/destination.

Restrictions will now depend on the container ID, not the loading path. Containers using a GTM-XXXX ID can run normally, while product-specific IDs such as G-XXXX or AW-XXXX remain limited to Google-provided tags and variables.

Standard Google installation snippets are unaffected. Administrators of containers that may be significantly impacted have been notified by email.

AI-generated advertising

Google is expanding transparency around AI-generated advertising.A new “How this ad was made” section in My Ad Center will show whether an ad was created or edited using generative AI.

It will be available globally through the three-dot menu or information icon on ads across Search, YouTube, and Discover.Ads created with Google’s generative AI tools will receive the disclosure automatically. Advertisers using external AI tools will be able to declare this themselves, and local regulations may require an additional label directly on the ad.

These measures build on Google’s existing use of SynthID, its disclosure rules for altered election ads, advertiser verification, and policies prohibiting misleading or deceptive advertising.

Google Ads alcohol advertising policy

Google Ads clarified its alcohol advertising policy by expanding the list of ad formats that do not permit alcohol ads.

Newly listed formats include app install image and video ads, consumer ratings annotations, Discovery ads, dynamic search ads, and Gmail ads.

Google says this is only a clarification and does not change how the policy is enforced.

AI Max help document

Barry Schwartz discovered that Google Ads AI Max help document added new FAQs section.

Google is testing placing favicons

Google is testing placing favicons in the sitelinks portion of the sponsored results from Google Ads. This was spotted by Sachin Patel, Khushal Bherwani and Barry Schwartz.

New tracking status

Natasha Kaurra discovered this new tracking status called awaiting conversions!

Text customization

Arpan Banerjee discovered that Google now shows example of text customization and final URL expansion in campaign settings.

Google is dropping “Next”

Google is dropping “Next” from Google Merchant Center Next and renaming it simply Google Merchant Center.

The change reflects that the newer Merchant Center experience, introduced in 2023, has effectively become the standard platform.

Google will remove “Next” from Help Center articles, emails, and the interface.No action is required, and the change does not affect accounts.

Google is expanding AI ad disclosures across Search, YouTube, and Discover.

Google is expanding AI ad disclosures across Search, YouTube, and Discover. Users will now be able to see whether an ad creative was created or edited with AI through a new “How this ad was made” section in My Ad Center.Google will automatically disclose AI use when advertisers use its own generative AI tools, while advertisers using third-party AI tools may control disclosure depending on local requirements.

As AI-generated ads become easier to create, transparency becomes essential.Same rules still apply: misleading or deceptive ads remain prohibited, AI or not.

Assets in ad preview

Arpan Banerjee discovered that we can now select assets in ad preview.

Google Ads just added SMS to Message assets

Arpan Banerjee discovered that Google Ads just added SMS to Message assets

Google Search Console appears to have added a new “Search generative AI”

According to the post by Thomas Eccel, and originally spotted by Jamie Indigo in a U.S. account, Google Search Console appears to have added a new “Search generative AI” control center for AI Overviews and AI Mode.

The setting reportedly gives site owners two options:Include their site’s links and content in Search generative AI features this is enabled by default.Exclude their site entirely from AI Overviews and AI Mode.

Google is expanding Search campaigns

Google is expanding Search campaigns for Travel into open beta for the Things to Do and Events verticals. This lets advertisers manage feed-based travel ads and text ads together in one Search campaign setup.Key benefits:Centralized buying: manage travel feed formats and text ads in one place.

Real-time enhancements: use feeds, keywords, AI Max features, Search Term Matching, and item groups to improve ads.Unified reporting: consolidate performance data, including search term reporting, across campaign levels.Overall: it’s a push to simplify travel campaign management, add more AI-powered optimization, and improve reporting for travel advertisers.

Google is adding auto-play animation to 3D product models in Shopping paid results

Google is adding auto-play animation to 3D product models in Shopping paid results. When users stop scrolling and a product with a 3D label is visible, the model will automatically rotate without requiring interaction.

The feature is designed to make 3D product listings more engaging and help advertisers attract more attention. However, while the animation plays, it may replace the product’s main image. The update was shared by Khushal Bherwani.

Meta Ads Manager is rolling out a new “Grouping” option

Meta Ads Manager is rolling out a new “Grouping” option that lets advertisers organize campaigns by settings like objective, bid strategy, delivery, budget, bidding, and business goals.

It’s a small but useful update for managing larger ad accounts more easily, though it may not be available to everyone yet.Thanks for sharing VIVEK GUPTA.

Demand Gen campaigns may now allow tROAS and Max Conversion Value bidding

Google Ads update spotted by Thomas Eccel: Demand Gen campaigns may now allow tROAS and Max Conversion Value bidding without a data threshold in new accounts. Google also appears to be rolling out a refreshed bid strategy settings layout.

OpenAI appears to be testing a new ChatGPT Ads feature that can generate ads for advertisers.

OpenAI appears to be testing a new ChatGPT Ads feature that can generate ads for advertisers.Under the “Add new ad” option, advertisers may see a “generate ads for you” feature.

ChatGPT creates an ad variation based on the advertiser’s website and campaign settings, which can then be reviewed, edited, and activated.A quick duplicate ad option was also spotted.Why it matters: this could make it easier and faster for advertisers to launch campaigns on ChatGPT Ads. But marketers should still carefully review AI-generated ads to ensure they match brand guidelines, messaging, and ROI goals.Credit: Barry Schwartz and Anthony Higman.

Merchant listing structured data

Google has updated its Merchant listing structured data to better align with Google Merchant Center feed capabilities.

Two key additions:1. Sale duration support

Google now explains how to use validFrom, validThrough, and priceValidUntil to define when sale prices are active, aligning structured data with the Merchant Center sale_price_effective_date attribute.

2. Product category supportGoogle added support for the Product.category property, allowing merchants to include both merchant-defined and Google-defined category information, similar to product_type and google_product_category in Merchant Center.

Why it matters: these updates can help Google better understand products, sales, and categories, which may improve how products appear in Search and Shopping results.

Google is discontinuing third-party rates for Hotel Ads after September 30, 2026

Google is discontinuing third-party rates for Hotel Ads after September 30, 2026.After that date, Hotel Ads campaigns using third-party rates will stop serving across all Hotel Ads inventory.

Performance Max for Travel Goals campaigns will continue running on channels like Search, Display, and YouTube, but they will no longer serve Hotel Ads through third-party rates. To keep showing hotel ads, advertisers will need to set up a direct price feed through an integration partner or create a Hotel Center account linked to Google Ads, then rebuild campaigns with similar settings. Credit: Barry Schwartz

ChatGPT Ads appears to be rolling out a new Audiences targeting option.

ChatGPT Ads appears to be rolling out a new Audiences targeting option.According to Barry Schwartz, advertisers may now be able to upload raw or hashed emails and phone numbers to create audience filters for campaigns.

The feature was spotted by Craig Graham on LinkedIn, with Joss Froggatt also confirming he could see the audience detail screen.No official help documentation seems to be available yet, but this looks like a move toward more advanced audience targeting inside ChatGPT Ads. Credit: Barry Schwartz, Craig Graham, and Joss Froggatt.

Google Ads is updating bidding

Google Ads is updating bidding for limited-by-budget campaigns using Target CPA or Target ROAS.Starting August 17, 2026, these campaigns will perform more consistently toward the target you set, even after budget changes.That means if your Target CPA is $10, but the campaign has recently been achieving $5 CPA, performance may move closer to the $10 target unless you adjust it.

Google recommends reviewing budget-limited campaigns before the update. A new Bid Target Adjustment Tool is available from July 6, 2026 to help review historical performance and update targets.Ginny Marvin clarified this is not meant to increase spend for already budget-capped campaigns.

The goal is more predictable performance. But campaigns currently outperforming their targets may shift, so targets should reflect your true business goals.Credit: Barry Schwartz for the update and Ginny Marvin for the clarification.

Useful GTM update

Matteo Zambon shared a useful GTM update: with the new rollout, managing Workspaces is no longer accessible from the usual “Workspace” tab or sidebar option.

To manage Workspaces now, go to Overview → three-dot menu → Manage workspace. It’s an extra step compared with the previous flow, so Matteo recommends submitting feedback in GTM to ask Google to restore easier one-click access.Credit: Matteo Zambon

Google Search Console is introducing platform propertie

Google Search Console is introducing platform properties, a new way for creators and publishers to understand how their Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube posts perform across Google Search and Discover.

With this update, creators can see which search terms drive people to their social and video content, and better understand how audiences engage with their posts beyond their own websites.

Last event ping

Arpan Banerjee discovered that Google is now showing last event ping!

API

Apparently, Google has recently received so many requests for granting access to the API that they decided to optimize the process.From July 7, a pilot will be launched, which shortens the wait for Basic Access in the Google Ads API.

Until now, a request for a higher level of access could stand in line for weeks. Now, a pending Basic Access application is verified in a few hours.Thanks for sharing Karol Dziedzic!

New “How campaign structure works”

META Ads is now showing a new “How campaign structure works” guide during the campaign creation flow. Thanks for sharing VIVEK GUPTA.

Demand Gen campaigns

Thomas Eccel discovered that Demand Gen campaigns can now 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧!

Google & YouTube Shopify app

Google has acknowledged reports that reinstalling the Google & YouTube Shopify app before the August 18, 2026 migration deadline may change product IDs in Google Merchant Center. This is related to the transition from the Content API to the Merchant API.

Thanks for sharing Emmanuel Flossie.

Google Ads Introduces Two Brand Lift Studies

Google Ads now offers two Brand Lift Studies: Standard measures lifts from 2%, while Enhanced can detect lifts from 1.2% but requires three times the budget.

Google Clarifies Its Smart Bidding Update

Google says its August 18 Smart Bidding update is not a broader system change. It only affects budget-constrained campaigns using targets, aiming to keep ROI performance more consistent as budgets change.

Credit: Barry Schwartz.

Google Turns On Conversion-Based Customer Lists

To help you maximise the value and performance of your first-party data, Google is turning on the conversion-based customer lists feature for your account(s) beginning on 17 June 2026, and data will begin to be processed on 18 August 2026.

Google Ads will expand its Alcohol policy

On July 28, 2026, Google Ads will expand its Alcohol policy, allowing promotions for alcoholic beverages in new geographic locations.

Advertisers can market products that meet local Alcohol by Volume (ABV) requirements, up to the maximum permitted for each region.

Google Removes Manual Product Updates from Manufacturer Center

Google has removed the option to manually add or update products in Google Manufacturer Center.

Users must now submit product data through the Manufacturer Center API or by uploading a product file. Data submitted before July 9, 2026, will remain in existing accounts and requires no action. Google had previously sent multiple warnings about the change.

Thanks for sharing Barry Schwartz

Google AI Mode adds Instacart, Canva, and YouTube Music

What it isGoogle is rolling out connected apps in AI Mode for U.S. users. You can link services like Instacart, Canva, and YouTube Music and act on an AI answer without leaving Search.

Plan a barbecue and load an Instacart cart. Build a flyer in Canva. Save a playlist to YouTube Music. More partners are on the way.

What it means for your account

No ad lever here yet, but watch the traffic story. Every task that finishes inside AI Mode is a click that never reached a site.

If your buyers can complete the action in Search, your landing page loses a shot at them.

Track your branded and non-branded traffic for softening as this expands.

Why it matters

Google keeps pulling the finish line inside its own walls. Less pass-through traffic means less you control after the search.

Start planning for a world where the answer, and the action, both happen before your site loads.

Source: Search Engine Land, by Danny Goodwin.

Google is making Local Inventory Ads the default

What it is

From August 31, Local Inventory Ads switch on by default in Standard Shopping campaigns tied to a Merchant Center account with the LIA add-on enabled.

The old “Local products” setting under Other settings goes away. You will manage local versus online through the new Inventory filter instead, set to Channel = Local or Channel = Online.

What it means for your account

If you split budgets between online and in-store, do not ignore this. Default-on could change how those campaigns behave if you leave the settings alone.

Audit every affected Shopping campaign before August 31. Set the Inventory filter to the channel you actually want, then confirm your online and local spend still land where you intended.

Why it matters

This is a silent default that touches budget, not just plumbing. Miss the date and Google decides your local strategy for you. Ten minutes of checking now beats explaining a spend shift to a client later.

Source: Search Engine Land, by Anu Adegbola, mMBA. First spotted by Arpan Banerjee.

Rewards program launches on Accelerate with Google

What it is

Google launched Rewards inside Accelerate with Google. You get personalized goals, earn points, and redeem them in a Rewards Store for things like Pixel phones, Masterclass subscriptions, and espresso machines. Goals split into Account Goals and Personal Goals. Live for eligible users now, wider rollout through the year.

What it means for your account

Read the fine print. Account Goals are Google paying you in points to adopt Google’s preferred features, like new campaign types and bidding changes. That is an incentive to do what Google wants, not always what your client’s profit wants. Points expire 12 months after they are issued. If two people touch an account, only whoever takes the last action gets the points.

Why it matters

Free espresso machines are nice. Getting nudged into PMax or a bidding switch because a prize is dangling is not. Chase the goals that already fit your strategy. Ignore the ones that only serve Google’s roadmap.

Source: About Rewards on Accelerate with Google (Google Ads Help).

Multi-party approval spotted live in Google Ads

What it is

Multi-party approval has shown up in the wild in Google Ads. It requires sign-off from more than one person before sensitive access is granted. Google explained the feature back in February, so this is the rollout catching up to the announcement. A screenshot confirms it is now appearing in accounts.

What it means for your account

This is a security layer, not a performance one. If you manage client accounts, expect access and permission changes to need a second approver. Set that up before you need it, not during a fire. Agencies handing off access should factor in the extra step so nothing stalls.

Why it matters

Account takeovers and rogue changes are a real risk at scale. A second set of hands on sensitive access makes both harder to pull off. Low effort to enable, high downside to skip.

Source: Screenshot shared by Arpan Banerjee. Background from PPC News Feed.

Google is testing “Read more” links in mobile Search ads

What it is

Google appears to be testing a “Read more” link inside mobile Search ads. It sits below the visible description and expands longer ad copy in place. Users see the extra text without clicking through to the site. Still a test, not a rollout.

What it means for your account

Nothing to set up. If it ships, your full description could get read before the click, so weak second lines will show. Tighten your descriptions now and stop treating the tail end as filler. Watch for softer CTR if people get their answer without visiting.

Why it matters

More ad copy on screen shifts weight back to the words, not just the headline. Good writing gets rewarded, lazy writing gets exposed. Keep an eye on whether expanded ads pull cleaner clicks or just fewer.

Source: Shared by Khushal Bherwani on LinkedIn.

Business data feeds are now live in Demand Gen

What it is

Google added business data feeds to Demand Gen. They run dynamic ads that swap items based on intent. Built for travel, flights, real estate, and automotive. Pick a template, upload by CSV or SFTP, attach to the campaign. Smart Bidding still works.

What it means for your account

Display Network only right now. No YouTube, no Discover. One feed per campaign, and the feed type locks once you save. Note the mixed message: Google pitches this as a no Merchant Center option, but the setup steps still send you into Merchant Center to build the feed.

Why it matters

Non-retail advertisers were stuck with static creative. Now a property or travel brand can show live listings without a shopping catalog. Real gap filled. Just keep it Display only for now.

Source: Use business data feeds in Demand Gen campaigns (Google Ads Help). Spotted by Hana Kobzová.

Google Expands Performance Max Product Reporting Across All Networks

Google has expanded Performance Max product reporting to include data from all networks, which may cause a one-time spike in impressions and clicks.

Credit to Bia Camargo & Hana Kobzová for spotting the update.

Google has added the function lead in the conversion section.

VIVEK GUPTA discovered that Google has added the function lead in the conversion section.

Google Tag Manager Now Automatically Fixes Incorrect /gtag/ Installations

Google Tag Manager now automatically fixes containers installed using the incorrect /gtag/ path, restoring full GTM functionality.

A small but useful fix for affected implementations.

Credit to Simo Ahava for sharing the update

Google Consolidates Shopping Policies in Merchant Center

In September 2026, Google will update the Google Merchant Center Help Center to consolidate the Shopping ads and free listings policies into a single set of Shopping policies, for improved organization and clarity.

Google Introduces AI Labels for Ad Creatives

In response to emerging global regulations, Google is introducing tools to help advertisers identify and label AI-generated ad creatives beginning July 13. For publishers, these AI labels may appear on creatives served to their properties when coming from Google demand (Google Ads, Display & Video 360). Google’s sell-side platforms do not offer AI labeling features.

Google Tests Sticky Sponsored Search Results Again

Google is again testing sticky sponsored search results with a card-style design, thinner “Sponsored” labels, and rounded gray borders.

The layout resembles a 2024 test and a version launched in 2025.

The test was spotted by Khushal Bherwani & Barry Schwartz.

Google Merchant Center Pilots AI Performance Insights

Google Merchant Center is piloting AI Performance Insights for AI Mode and AI Overviews, including share of voice, competitor visibility, query trends, and organic AI traffic.

Credit: Barry Schwartz. Additional findings by Hana Kobzová and Brodie Clark.

OpenAI has quietly added new reporting features to ChatGPT Ads Manager

OpenAI has quietly added new reporting features to ChatGPT Ads Manager:

Attributed Sales Value and Sales ROAS metrics are now visible.

Advertisers can also access product-level ad performance reporting.

The changes appeared without an official announcement.

Industry observers suggest the focus on revenue and product metrics may indicate OpenAI is prioritizing retail advertisers, even though basic metrics such as conversion rate and CPA are still missing.

OpenAI is expected to announce the update formally soon.

Thanks for sharing Craig Graham.

Google Ads Adds Global Reach and Frequency Optimization for YouTube

Google Ads now offers global reach and frequency optimization for YouTube video campaign groups. Advertisers can set shared goals across multiple campaigns while retaining separate budgets, creatives, and settings.

The update helps brands:

– Simplify campaign management

– Improve unique reach and frequency efficiency

– View unified performance metrics across campaign groups

Google reports that an optimal frequency of 2.7 impressions per week can increase ROI by 19%.

Similar capabilities are coming soon to Display & Video 360.

Google Ads Accounts Can Now Be Bulk Linked to GA4

Thomas Eccel discovered that you can now 𝗯𝘂𝗹𝗸 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗔𝗱𝘀 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗮 𝗚𝗔𝟰 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁𝘆.

Google Ads Rolls Out More AI Performance Explanations

Thomas Eccel discovered that More AI Performance Explanations rolling out in Google Ads!

Google Ads Adds AI-Powered Conversion Recommendations

Arpan Banerjeen discovered that Google Ads now shows AI-powered conversion recommendations in the Conversion Summary dashboard

GPT Ads Add Geo and Audience Exclusions

Anthony Higman discovered that ChatGPT now has GEO exclusions and audience exclusions in GPT Ads.

Google Expands Shopping Ads and Free Listings to 14 More European Markets

Starting in July 2026, Google is expanding Shopping ads and free product listings to 14 additional European markets, including Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Baltic states, Malta, and Serbia.

Merchants must complete Merchant Center verification and ensure their product feeds, languages, currencies, and localized landing pages meet Google’s requirements.

Country-specific restrictions apply to categories such as alcohol, medicines, political content, high-fat, sugar and salt products, and adult-oriented content.

Previously restricted accounts may submit an appeal through Merchant Center once the rollout is active in the relevant country.

Thanks for sharing Arpan Banerjee

Google Adds a New High-Engagement Ads Option for App Campaigns

Arpan Banerjee discovered that Google setting has this new option for “High-engagement ads” for app campaigns.

OpenAI Could Generate $110B in Annual Ad Revenue by 2030

Wall Street has priced ChatGPT’s ad opportunity.

New Street Research estimates OpenAI could generate $110B in annual ad revenue by 2030.

Even the $24B bear case would be the fastest advertising ramp in history.

The key lever is commercial intent: if it rises from 20% of chats to the mid-30s, the monetisable surface nearly doubles without adding users.

The question is no longer whether conversational advertising becomes a major channel, but how quickly brands learn to compete inside it.

Google’s IPO legitimised search budgets. OpenAI’s could do the same for conversation.

Credit to Daniel Salmon and the New Street Research team for putting a serious framework around conversational advertising.

Is Temu Pulling Back from Google Shopping in Europe?

Is Temu pulling back from Google Shopping in Europe?

Recent data from Smarter Ecommerce (smec) and MarketMaze shows a sharp drop in Temu’s Google Shopping advertiser overlap in early July, with SHEIN also declining.

A possible reason: the EU’s new €3 fee on low-value imports is putting pressure on already-thin margins, making paid search one of the first levers to cut.

The key question: will European retailers benefit from lower CPCs, or is this only a temporary reset?

Credit: Smarter Ecommerce (smec) and MarketMaze.

Google Tests Hidden Sponsored Products Again

Sachin Patel discovered that Google is testing again with hidden sponsored products!

Google Sends Email Reminders About Bidding Changes

Google started reminding about the bidding changes by email!

Brand Lift Study Strength Rolls Out to More Google Ads Accounts

𝗕𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝘆 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗵𝘁 is now live in more accounts! Thanks for sharing Thomas Eccel.

Google Support Email Appears to Be Down

Looks like Google Support (email) is down.

AI Performance Insights Enters Limited Pilot in Google Merchant Center

AI Performance Insights Now in Limited Pilot in GMC, thanks for sharing Hana Kobzová.

Alphabet Q2

Alphabet delivered a strong Q2, with total revenue up 24% to $119.8 billion. Google advertising revenue rose to $81.6 billion, driven mainly by 17% growth in Search and 13% growth in YouTube Ads. Advertising remains Alphabet’s key revenue growth engine.

Warning AI Labels

Google Warns Against Placing AI Labels in Corners. Thanks for sharing Barry Schwartz

Subheading test

Google appears to be testing a new subheading in Shopping Ads: “Featured products from online or local stores. Found by Sachin Patel.

Rounded corners

Google is testing rounded corners for both articles and sponsored results in the its Discover feed.Found by Hana Kobzová, Barry Schwartz & Damien Andell.

Appeal

Google wrote, Starting July 21, 2026, the option to appeal a policy decision directly from your Google Ads account will not be available for policy decisions made more than 6 months prior.Thanks for sharing Barry Schwartz.

More AI

Google Merchant Center is adding more AI features, including automated insight summaries, suggested search queries, and access to previous chats directly from the dashboard. Thanks for sharing SERP Alert ⚡.

CSS

Google appears to have renamed Comparison Listing ads as CSS Product Listing ads, with a substantially updated help page but no formal announcement.

The ads let eligible Comparison Shopping Services compete alongside merchants in Google’s product carousel and direct clicks to product pages on the CSS’s website.

Thanks for sharing Barry Schwartz

LSA

Google confirms Local Inventory Ads will be enabled by default.

API V25

Google Ads API v25 adds richer YouTube and Shorts reporting, new loyalty retention and customer acquisition goals, and expanded creator insights. Developers must update their client libraries and integrations to access the new features and replace retired legacy resources.

Editor 2.13

Google Ads Editor 2.13 adds AI Max support for Shopping campaigns, new Performance Max retention goals, expanded Demand Gen features, improved reporting, and AI-content disclosure controls. It also streamlines offline campaign management while ending support for creating new Video Action campaigns.

Chat GPT

ChatGPT Ads adds conversion bidding, geo exclusions and bulk campaign tools!

ASK Advisor

Google is gradually rolling out Ask Advisor in Merchant Center.The AI-powered assistant can help advertisers understand account issues and guide them towards possible solutions directly within the platform.

The feature was announced at Google Marketing Live 2026 and is currently only available in selected accounts, so not everyone will see it yet.

This update was uncovered by Emmanuel Flossie.

Gambling & Games

Google is updating its Gambling and Games certification requirements on August 26, 2026.

New applicants will need to use revised application forms and provide up-to-date licensing information.

Advertisers must also display required compliance details on their websites, including age restrictions and licensing information.

Significant business or licence changes may require recertification, and failing to comply could result in suspension.Source: Google Ads Help.

Crypto update

Google is expanding its cryptocurrency advertising policy in Europe.From August 2026, eligible advertisers will be allowed to promote crypto exchanges, software wallets, and hardware wallets in Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.

Advertisers must be licensed as a Crypto-Asset Service Provider under MiCA and comply with local legal requirements.

This creates new opportunities in these markets, but only for properly licensed providers that meet Google’s certification and compliance standards.

Healthcare and Medicines

Google is updating its Healthcare and Medicines policy in Spain.

From August 2026, eligible telemedicine providers will be allowed to advertise prescription drug services, provided they hold both LegitScript Healthcare Merchant Certification and Google advertiser certification.

This opens up new advertising opportunities in Spain, but only for providers that meet the required compliance and certification standards.

Lead Form

Google has broadened access to Lead Form assets by removing the previous $50,000 ad spend requirement.

Eligibility now mainly depends on advertiser verification and a good policy compliance history, making the feature more accessible to smaller businesses.

Lead Form assets are now supported for Search and Performance Max campaigns. Google has also added more lead delivery options, including email notifications and Zapier integration.CSV downloads remain available for 30 days, while lead data is stored for 60 days.

The feature is also expanding to additional countries, including Bahrain, Jordan, and Tunisia. Credit to Anu Adegbola, mMBA for uncovering the update.

Merchant API

Google has opened a form for advertisers that need more time to migrate from the Content API for Shopping to the Merchant API.The current deadline is August 18, 2026. Businesses that are not ready can request extended access until either October 15 or December 31, 2026.

The application asks for contact details and a business justification. Google warns that missing the migration deadline could affect both ads and organic product experiences.

The extension offers some breathing room, but the migration should still be prioritised rather than postponed unnecessarily.This update was discovered by Barry Schwartz.

Pmax

Google has updated its Performance Max help documentation to clarify how AI is used for text customization.

Google AI can generate headlines and descriptions using content from the landing page, website domain, and existing ads.Most of the documentation changes are minor, but this wording makes Google’s role in automatically creating text assets more explicit.Advertisers should still review generated assets for accuracy and brand consistency.

Credit to Barry Schwartz for spotting the update.

LSA Update

Local Services Ads are moving into the Google Ads interface.The campaigns will run under Performance Max with pay-per-lead goals, while keeping the current LSA model: ads remain limited to Search and Maps, and advertisers continue paying for valid leads rather than clicks.

The move should make campaign and lead management easier by bringing LSAs into the same platform as other Google Ads campaigns. Existing settings and Google Business Profile information will be used during the transition.

One important limitation: historical performance data will not transfer, so advertisers should download previous reports before migration.The first accounts will move in August, followed by a phased rollout.

Credit to Ginny Marvin for sharing the update.

LSA Shopping

Google will enable Local Inventory Ads by default in Shopping campaigns from August 31, 2026.The existing local products setting is being removed.

Advertisers will instead need to use the inventory filter and select Channel = Local or Channel = Online to control which products are included.

This is especially important for advertisers that keep separate budgets for online and local inventory, as campaign settings may need to be adjusted before the change takes effect.

The notification applies to manager accounts connected to a Merchant Center account where the Local Inventory Ads add-on is enabled.

Credit to Arpan Banerjee for sharing the update.

Prediction markets

Google has banned ads for prediction market contracts and related products in Michigan and New York.The restriction took effect on July 13, 2026, following a similar ban in Ohio in June.

Shopify ID

Google has confirmed a fix for the Shopify product ID bug that caused some merchants to lose historical product performance after reinstalling the Google & YouTube app.

Google advises merchants not to uninstall the app while the fix is being rolled out.

Credit to Ginny Marvin, Emmanuel Flossie, and Matinique Roelse for sharing.

Pmax

Google has launched a dedicated NotebookLM to help agencies pitch Performance Max to clients.

The tool can generate pitch emails, discovery call scripts, campaign setup guidance, and PMax recommendations.

Useful for speeding up preparation, but strong pitches still require real client context and strategic expertise.

Credit to Bia Camargo for sharing.

AI Recommendations

Google Ads is now showing AI-powered conversion recommendations in the Conversion Summary dashboard.The recommendations suggest actions such as Page views and Engagements, labelled “Recommended by Google AI”.

Missed opportunities

Thomas Eccel discovered that the missed opportunities section is now live!

New example screenshots

Thomas Eccel discovered that Google Ads added 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗲𝘅𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘁𝘀 under Asset Optimization inside AI Max campaigns for both 𝗧𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗖𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗨𝗥𝗟 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻.

Branded searches

Google Ads rolled out a new Brand report that shows branded search volume per Demand Gen campaign, and comparing it to spend over time. Thanks to Yash Mandlesha & Thomas Eccel for sharing it with me.

Has improvements

Thomas Eccel discovered the new tracking status has improvements!

Collapse

New? The collapse button?Thanks for sharing Arpan Banerjee

Demand Gen Frequency

Demand Gen: The Campaign Group option is now showing in some accounts.Thanks for sharing Arpan Banerjee.

AI max standard shopping

Arpan Banerjee discovered that AI Max lands to Standard Shopping campaigns!

Voice-over

Arpan Banerjee discovered that Google has added Voice-over video enhancement examples under Asset Optimization in Performance Max campaigns.

DV360 Update

The July 2026 update to the Display & Video 360 API introduces three main changes:Creatives and ad assets can now indicate whether their content was created or edited using AI through the new syntheticContentAttestationStatus field.

Advertisers can set a default business name and logo. These values will automatically be used for Demand Gen and responsive YouTube ads when no business name or logo is specified.

Beta support has been launched for generating reach forecasts and retrieving related metadata. This feature is currently limited to allowlisted partners.Users should update their client library to the latest version before using these new features.

The complete list of changes is available in the Display & Video 360 API release notes.

Thanks for sharing Arpan Banerjee

Line support

Arpan Banerjee discovered that Google Ads message assets now support LINE.

GA4 Update

Google launched a new diagnostic to alert users of issues with campaign data accuracy due to missing URL parameters. Properties where aggregate identifiers (GBRAID and gad_) are missing from the URL will see a new diagnostic, including the problematic URLs and ways to resolve the issue. These identifiers are important for campaign data accuracy.

GA4 update

Google has updated campaign data imports to require a currency field when uploading cost data. Advertisers can map currency from their source or apply one fixed currency, helping keep reporting accurate if property settings change.

Demand Gen

Google’s July Demand Gen update introduces new retail tools for the holiday season, including Checkout Links in nine additional markets, upgraded Target ROAS bidding, product feed integrations and expanded creator partnerships. Google says advertisers using Checkout URLs saw an average 6% increase in conversions.

Casino

Starting in August 2026, Google will gradually let some advertisers apply for Social Casino Games certification directly in Google Ads under Admin > Policy > Account. Help Center applications will remain available, and existing certifications or pending applications will not be affected.

Measurement

Google has expanded its Ads conversion measurement guidance with clearer timelines, permissions and data-source recommendations. Key updates include a 7–14 day Smart Bidding learning period, 24–48 hour setup delays, and guidance on conversion goals, tags, Analytics imports and Consent Mode. Credit: Barry Schwartz.

Generate image

Google Ads now lets advertisers upload reference images when generating AI visuals. Products, people, backgrounds or style references can be combined with text prompts to create more tailored ad images. Credit: First spotted by Arpan Banerjee.

Budget Panel

Google Ads is introducing a Budget Panel for Performance Max and Demand Gen campaigns. It provides Low, Medium and High daily budget recommendations, along with performance forecasts based on campaign settings and account history.

Credit: Barry Schwartz.

New Guide

Google has published new guidance for tracking offline conversions using GBRAID, a privacy-preserving and case-sensitive URL parameter. It helps advertisers measure more click-based conversions and improve campaign bidding without linking data to individual users.Credit: Barry Schwartz. First spotted by Shauvik Kumar.

API update

Google’s latest Data Manager API update adds a bulk method to remove all audience members, field-level ingestion warnings for optional data, and expanded address support for Google Analytics events. These changes make audience refreshes, error handling and user-data ingestion more flexible.

DV360

Google has added optional AI content-labeling fields to the Campaign Manager 360 and Display & Video 360 APIs. Advertisers can mark creatives as AI-generated or AI-edited, with labels applied in regulated regions including the EU, India and New York state.

Passkey

Google Ads API will require passkey authentication for new OAuth 2.0 refresh tokens starting August 5, 2026. Existing refresh tokens and service account workflows are unaffected, but new users may face a seven-day security delay after creating a passkey.

V10.1

Google has released Structured Data Files v10.1 for Display & Video 360, adding AI transparency labels, DOOH campaign support, creative mapping fields and improved bulk management. Versions before v10 are now deprecated, so teams using SDFs should update their workflows.

AI

Google is testing AI-generated descriptions in Shopping and Product ads. The added context may help shoppers make better decisions, but advertisers have limited control over how products are summarized. The impact on CTR and conversions remains unclear.

Credit: Anu Adegbola, mMBA. First spotted by PPC expert Brodie Clark.

OpenAI

OpenAI is changing daily ad budgets to a 7-day average, allowing spend up to 2× the daily budget on some days while staying within the weekly limit. This may help performance, but advertisers should monitor spending closely, especially near the $25/day minimum.

Thanks for sharing Anthony Higman

OpenAI

The next generation of ads may not send you to a website.OpenAI is reportedly testing ads that launch a business-agent conversation inside ChatGPT, complete with product data, support information, tools, and lead-capture forms.Credit: Juozas Kaziukėnas

Pmax

Google has officially documented negative keyword impact prediction for Performance Max.Advertisers can preview how up to 10 negative keywords may affect conversions or conversion value across Search and Shopping inventory.

The feature is currently limited to Performance Max, with broader rollout possible later. Thanks for sharing Hana Kobzová

Lead Journey Mapping

Google Ads has launched Lead Journey Mapping, a new drag-and-drop tool for lead generation advertisers.

It helps visualize the full customer journey, identify key touchpoints, and align campaign bidding with business goals.The feature was first spotted through a newly published Google Ads help page discovered by Hana Kobzová.

Clicks

Yash Mandlesha discovered that Google has gained product clicks and non-product clicks!

AI Label

Google is rolling out AI content labels across Google Ads, Merchant Center, and Ads Editor. Advertisers can mark assets as AI-generated or AI-edited, and labeled ads may display an icon and disclosure when shown. The update is designed to improve transparency around AI-generated advertising content.

Thanks for sharing Hana Kobzová.

Bidding

Google appears to be presenting Target CPA and Target ROAS as standalone bidding strategies in campaign setup. The functionality remains unchanged, but the new layout makes Smart Bidding options clearer and easier to select. Found by Natasha Kaurra.

New Task

Arpan Banerjee received this new task, here you need to submit an application to use copyrighted content in your ads.