What to know

  • Google has started placing ads inside conversations with third-party AI chatbots, marking a significant shift in AI monetization.
  • Meta launched a standalone AI app featuring social elements like sharing, liking, and remixing AI interactions.
  • OpenAI introduced shopping features in ChatGPT with product recommendations, images, reviews, and direct purchase links.

Google has begun placing advertisements within conversations powered by third-party AI chatbots. This move represents a major shift in how the search giant plans to monetize artificial intelligence as traditional search faces increasing competition from conversational AI platforms.

According to recent reports (via Bloomberg), Google's AdSense for Search program has expanded beyond websites and search results to include chatbot interactions. The company has already tested this approach with AI startups including iAsk and Liner, with plans for broader implementation.

A Google spokesperson confirmed this development, stating, "AdSense for Search is available for websites that want to show relevant ads in their conversational AI experiences." While Google's own Gemini chatbot currently remains ad-free, this move suggests preparation for a future where traditional search becomes less dominant.

The timing is significant as AI-powered search alternatives like ChatGPT and Perplexity continue gaining popularity. With search ads generating over $198 billion for Google in 2024 (nearly 60% of Alphabet's revenue), the company appears to be building a financial safety net for the evolving search landscape.

Meanwhile, Meta has launched its own standalone AI assistant app powered by Llama 4. Unlike competitors, Meta's app incorporates social features allowing users to share their AI creations, like and comment on others' posts, and "remix" prompts created by other users.

The app includes a Discover feed that functions similarly to social media platforms. Mark Zuckerberg has indicated that while the app is currently free, some advanced voice features may become subscription-based in the future. The app will also feature personalized advertisements, making it the first AI-only app to include ads.

Not to be outdone, OpenAI recently upgraded ChatGPT with shopping capabilities. The new features include personalized product recommendations, images, user reviews, and direct purchase links across categories like fashion, beauty, home goods, and electronics.

These developments collectively signal a new phase for AI chatbots, where monetization through advertising and commerce becomes increasingly central to their business models. As these platforms continue evolving from experimental technology to mainstream tools, the integration of revenue-generating features appears inevitable.

Via: Android Authority