Google signals monetisation plans with ads in Gemini by early 2026

Google has begun informing select advertising clients that it intends to introduce ads within its AI chatbot Gemini, marking the first direct indication to buyers that monetisation of the assistant is moving closer. Agency executives familiar with recent calls said Google representatives outlined an early 2026 target for ad placements, although specifics around formats, pricing structures and testing remain undisclosed.

They added that the plans are distinct from advertising within AI Mode, the AI-powered search experience Google launched earlier this year.

Clients said Google has not shared prototypes or technical demonstrations of how ads might appear in Gemini. While the company has not publicly released any tools enabling paid ads within its assistant, leadership has previously hinted at the possibility.

Earlier this year, the company indicated it had internal ideas for ad integrations, part of broader investments that include a planned 75 billion dollar capital expenditure in 2026 to strengthen its AI capabilities.

Agency leaders said conversations with Google suggested potential relevance for ecommerce brands, although details remained limited and no formal product was presented. When asked about its roadmap, the company declined to comment, noting only that Gemini chats do not currently include ads and that any future updates would be clearly communicated to users.

The move comes as Gemini’s adoption accelerates. Since the release of its third version in November, global monthly active users rose about thirty per cent between August and November, supported by interest in its updated image-generation model. Over the same period, ChatGPT’s growth reached six per cent, though it continues to lead with eight hundred million weekly users. Google has reported 650 million monthly users for Gemini.

The prospect of AI-based advertising is drawing attention across the industry, with other platforms exploring similar revenue models. Yet the challenge of introducing ads without eroding user trust remains significant, a tension highlighted by recent pullbacks at competing AI services. Google’s cautious early briefings signal that it is navigating that balance as it lays the groundwork for Gemini’s next phase.