AI Business

Google Expands AI Search Ads Globally as Core Ad Growth Slows

Google is expanding AI-powered search ads to international markets despite slowing core ad growth, with Alphabet reporting strong revenue growth in Q3. The move aims to leverage AI features for new revenue opportunities.

TechCrunch AI Β· Oct 28, 2026

What happened

  • Google is expanding AI-powered search ads globally.
  • Alphabet reported strong revenue growth in Q3 despite slowing core ad growth.
  • AI features are changing how people use search, with longer and more complex queries.

Why it matters

Google's expansion of AI-powered search ads highlights the company's efforts to adapt to slowing core ad growth. The move could signal a shift towards leveraging AI for new revenue streams, though challenges remain in converting AI features into significant advertising income.

The Elephant take

🐘 ιΌ‹ Google is trying to turn AI into a revenue engine, but it's still a gamble as core ad growth slows. The company's bets on AI are bold, but the results so far are mixed.

Who should care

  • Tech companies
  • AI investors
  • Ad industry analysts

What to do next

  1. Monitor Google's AI ad performance in international markets
  2. Track Alphabet's revenue growth and stock performance
  3. Analyze the impact of AI on search query behavior
  4. Assess the long-term viability of AI-driven advertising

Keep in mind

The expansion of AI ads comes amid pressure from slowing core ad growth and market volatility.

Read the original reporting at TechCrunch AI β†—