Starting March 2026, Google will change Lookalike segments in Demand Gen campaigns from strict similarity-based targeting to an AI-driven suggestion model that can expand beyond the selected list to optimize conversions. Advertisers can still request legacy Lookalike targeting. This change aims to improve performance by allowing more automation, similar to Meta's AI targeting approach, though it may reduce control.
Google AdSense will add three new triggers for vignette ads from February 9, 2026, to increase revenue without disrupting users. Ads will show when users reach the end of an article and scroll back or wait, after 30 seconds of inactivity followed by interaction, and when navigating backward using the back button. These triggers activate automatically after a one-month review unless opted out, with frequency caps maintained.
Google envisions 2026 commercial experiences as fluid, assistive, and personal, removing the trade-off between speed and certainty in shopping. YouTube creators will connect brands and consumers using AI. Search ads will evolve with AI Mode, offering new formats and Direct Offers. Agentic commerce will grow with protocols like AP2 and UCP for seamless, secure transactions. Gemini 3 will enhance ad creativity and performance, with trust and privacy central.
Meta Ads update reduces control over detailed targeting, making it mostly suggestions for many goals. URL parameters are now managed in one place. Breakdown by Attribution is inconsistently available. Combined Awareness and Sales campaign type is introduced but unclear. Meta AI Business Assistant chatbot launches in beta. US bill may require advertiser verification. Custom event attribution may have delays. Preview to Publish shows ad summary.
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Interest in Google Ads API access has increased, causing delays in developer token reviews. Additional reviewers are addressing the backlog. Use Explorer Access if it meets your needs; upgrade to Basic Access if you exceed quotas or need more features. To support your application, list managed accounts under your Manager account, complete advertiser verification, update OAuth App verification, and provide clear use case details.
Version 13.0.0 of the Google Mobile Ads SDK for iOS is now available, requiring a minimum iOS 13 deployment target. It introduces the Large Adaptive Anchor API for better banner ad sizes, replacing older adaptive banner APIs. The update enhances Swift 6 concurrency support and enforces stricter type safety for neighboringContentURLStrings. Versions 11.x.x are deprecated, and 10.x.x will sunset by June 2026. Developers are encouraged to upgrade promptly.
Meta is rolling out Threads ads globally, so add your Threads account to your Meta Business Suite. To do this, go to 'Business Settings' in Meta Business Suite, then 'Threads accounts' under 'Accounts.' You must have an Instagram account with the same username linked first. If your Facebook or Instagram is missing, log in with your Instagram to find or merge business suites. Ensure your business owns all accounts, not third parties.
Amazon introduced a beta option in rule-based bidding for Sponsored Products called "Automatically optimizing ROAS within the campaign budget." It likely lets Amazon adjust bids throughout the day to maximize ROAS while spending the full daily budget, without a set ROAS target or floor. The user is skeptical about Amazon controlling both bidding and spending and plans to test and report on its performance.
Google Ads Shared Library's Location Manager now has a default opt-in allowing Google to use its own images in your ad campaigns without prior consent. This change, spotted by Conor Crummey, may be seen as sneaky since users weren't given an opt-out chance and images might not always align with business needs or brand safety. However, it can be useful for businesses lacking media or wanting to try Google AI. Awareness of this update is important.
