Google Expands Ads to Third-Party AI Chatbots

Google is expanding its AdSense for Search program by integrating ads into third-party AI chatbots like iAsk and Liner, aiming to maintain its dominance in digital advertising as conversational AI platforms such as ChatGPT and Perplexity gain popularity. This move is part of Google's strategy to adapt to shifting user behaviors that threaten its traditional search ad business, which generated nearly $200 billion in 2024. Although Google's own Gemini chatbot remains ad-free, the company is preparing for a future where monetizing chatbot interactions may become necessary. The expansion of AI chatbot capabilities now includes hyper-personalization and emotional intelligence, reflecting rapid innovation in the sector. Google is also facing increased regulatory scrutiny after antitrust rulings and is boosting investment in generative AI to address both competitive and legal challenges. These developments underscore the transformation underway in both digital advertising and AI industries.