Understanding Google Ads in AI Overviews

As Google continues integrating AI into search, AI Overviews are reshaping how users discover information. With this shift, Google Ads are evolving too, but how and where ads appear in these AI-powered results can be confusing for advertisers. Here’s a clear overview of what you need to know about ads in AI Overviews (as of June 2025) and how it may impact your campaign strategy. 

What Are AI Overviews

AI Overviews are AI-generated summaries that appear within Google Search results, providing concise answers drawn from multiple sources. This new format aims to give users fast, comprehensive insights without needing to click through multiple pages.

Where Do Ads Appear in AI Overviews

Google recently clarified that ads related to search queries can appear either above or below the AI Overview, or within the AI Overview itself — but never in both places at the same time. This means your ads will have distinct placement options depending on the type of keyword match you use. 

• Exact match keywords trigger ads that show above or below the AI Overview, with priority in auctions. 

• Broad match keywords are required for ads to appear directly inside the AI Overview. 

This distinction is crucial for advertisers planning where their ads will show and how they compete in auctions within these AI-driven search experiences. 

Why This Matters to Advertisers

As AI Overviews roll out in more countries and Google tests new AI modes, understanding ad placement helps marketers optimize campaigns for maximum visibility and performance. Since ads cannot appear in multiple positions simultaneously within AI Overviews, campaign strategies must account for these placement limitations.

How Foundery Helps You Navigate AI Ad Placements

AI-powered search results are changing rapidly, and staying ahead requires expert knowledge, performance monitoring, and agile strategies. Foundery’s digital marketing specialists ensure your Google Ads campaigns are optimized for emerging AI formats like AI Overviews by: 

• Identifying the right mix of keyword match types 
• Strategically targeting placements for maximum impact 
• Monitoring ad performance and adjusting as needed 
• Integrating AI tools with human expertise to drive ROI