Google has quietly introduced a new setting in Google Ads.
In the Shared Library → Location Manager, a new option has appeared that is enabled by default. This means Google automatically has permission to use Google-owned images and other media in your campaigns.
This applies to your entire Google Ads account, unless you manually opt out.
What does this mean?
By default, Google can now:
- Use images from Google sources
- Add these images to your ads
- Do this without you uploading creative yourself
This setting was first noticed by Conor Crummey.
Why this update can be risky
This change may not be ideal if:
- You were not clearly informed about the opt-in
- Google selects images that are not fully relevant to your business
- Your brand has strict brand-safety or visual guidelines
In these cases, it’s important to review and possibly disable this setting.
When this update can be useful
This update can also be helpful when:
- You don’t have many images available
- You want to test Google’s AI-driven creatives
- Brand safety is less critical for your business
For some advertisers, this can speed up testing and expansion.
Final thoughts
This update is not good or bad by default — it depends on your business, your brand, and your level of control.
The most important thing is awareness.
Make sure you know this setting exists and decide consciously whether it fits your strategy.
Ideally, Google should communicate changes like this more clearly — but now you know.
Thanks Thomas Eccel: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/thomaseccel_ppc-googleads-activity-7422903255908704256-Jxvn/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAGPcD1EBZ-02WJh8jIJmkEZERMU2o7g2axA