ShortsGoogle AI Mode can show up to four ads in a single response

AI Mode can show four ads

• Google AI Mode can show up to four Google Ads in a response to a single query.
• Google previously said it would show more ads, more often, in AI Mode.

Why it matters: Paid search teams should monitor how ads appear in AI Mode responses.

Sources: Search Engine Roundtable

OpenAI compares ChatGPT and Google query volumes

• OpenAI says ChatGPT’s search-like queries are roughly one-fifth of Google’s query volume.
• The comparison counts each ChatGPT question that sends it to the web.

Why it matters: Consider AI search usage in channel planning, while keeping query volume distinct from traffic data.

Sources: Search Engine Roundtable, Search Engine Journal

Search Console adds device multi-select

• Google Search Console’s performance report now allows users to select multiple device types.
• The report already supported multi-select for countries.

Why it matters: SEO teams can use combined device filters when analysing search performance.

Sources: Search Engine Roundtable

Reddit tests search-result ads

• Reddit is testing ads in its search results for the first time.
• Select eligible advertisers receive placements matched to search queries.

Why it matters: Paid media teams can assess the placement opportunity and watch for details on pricing and reporting.

Sources: PPC Land

Amazon changes display impression counting

• From 1 January 2027, Amazon will count DVA display ads on its homepage, search and product pages only once they appear on screen.
• Amazon expects the change to result in 63% fewer impressions.

Why it matters: Review impression forecasts and seek clarity on how the change affects billing and CPMs.

Sources: PPC Land

Server-side Google Tag Manager to process full IPs

• Google says server-side Google Tag Manager will allow tags to process full IP addresses from 11 January 2027.
• Google says ad tags will accept full IP addresses, while Analytics tags will remain redacted.

Why it matters: Review server-side tag settings and privacy practices before the change.

Sources: Search Engine Roundtable, Search Engine Journal

How this brief is made

Every morning we read the public feeds of Google, OpenAI, Microsoft, Meta and three search and ads trade outlets, and keep the stories that change what search, AI-visibility and ads teams do. Each thesis is written from the linked source; vendor claims are the vendor's.