PPC News Feed recorded, on 13 and 14 October 2026, three observations of ad tests in Google’s AI Mode: three ads at the bottom of results instead of the usual two; two new designs for sponsored results at the bottom; and, on mobile, ads showing the advertiser’s website name and others showing the URL. All were shared by users, with no Google statement, markets or timelines. According to Search Engine Roundtable, Google had no announced plans for AI Mode ads in the EU. Don’t plan based on observed tests.
Three ads instead of two
PPC News Feed reported, on 14 October 2026, that AI Mode was seen with three ads at the bottom of results, instead of the usual two. The observation was shared by Sachin Patel in an X post; the image shows three sponsored ads for AI search engine optimisation services. The source notes this “offers more ad space to advertisers”.
It indicates no market, duration nor whether it’s a general expansion. It cites no Google statement.
Two new ad designs
On 13 October, PPC News Feed recorded that Google is testing two new designs for sponsored results at the bottom of AI Mode. The specific page could not be consulted when preparing this article, so we don’t describe the designs or their details.
What can be stated is the report’s title: there are two new designs in test.
Ads in AI Mode: 13 and 14 October tests
Observed
- Three ads at the bottom, instead of two
- Two new designs of sponsored results
- Site name or URL on mobile
Unknown
- Markets and availability in Portugal
- Duration and performance
- Official Google statement
Site name or URL on mobile
PPC News Feed reported, on 13 October, that Google is testing how to show the advertiser’s site identifier in AI Mode ads on mobile: some show the site name, others the URL. Both formats were seen in the same experience. The source notes the visual difference may affect how users recognise brands and advertisers in AI Mode, and that it’s unclear which is newer nor whether Google will standardise.
For you, this underlines the importance of brand name and domain.
What these observations have in common
All were shared by users, are described as tests, cite no Google statement and indicate no markets or duration. They may disappear, change or expand. They serve as a signal of direction: more ad space, more presentation variations and more attention to brand identification.
Don’t draw performance conclusions: none of the sources presents data.
A good manager separates signal from noise and acts when there is data.
And in Europe? What was known
Search Engine Roundtable had recorded that AI Mode launched in Europe, but that ads in AI Mode were only in test in the US and that Google had no announced plans for the EU. PPC News Feed recorded ads in AI Overviews in 12 countries, without confirmation of EU countries. These October observations don’t clarify markets.
Until there’s confirmation, don’t assume these formats reach Portugal.
What to do now, without betting on what doesn't exist
Reinforce what serves any format: consistent, recognisable brand name, clean and safe domain, truthful ads, honest offers, fast pages and measurement. Review your company name in ads and the Business Profile to ensure consistency.
If your sector is sensitive (health, finance), keep extra attention on compliance, also in AI environments.
How to follow tests without getting distracted
Keep a simple signal log: date, source, what it is, market, confidence (confirmed, observed, rumour) and action. Review once a month. Ask the Google representative when a format is available in your market. Avoid whole meetings about rumours.
A good manager separates signal from noise and acts when there is data.
Questions for your manager
Do our ads appear in AI Mode? In which markets? Which format tests do we follow? How do we ensure brand consistency? What decisions do we expect to take with this news?
If you want to set up a log of AI search news and a monthly review routine, I can help structure it.
An illustrative brand consistency example
A physiotherapy clinic is called “Fisio Mar” on the Business Profile, “Clínica de Fisioterapia do Mar, Lda.” on the site and “FM Fisio” in ads. If AI Mode shows the site name in one ad and the URL in another, the user sees three different identities. The example is hypothetical. The clinic standardises name, domain and logo, and confirms the URL is short and legible.
A consistent identity is an asset that serves all formats.
Summary in three lines
AI Mode ad tests were observed (three ads, new designs, site name or URL), with no markets or data. For the EU, no plans had been announced. Strengthen brand identity, domain and measurement, and follow with a monthly log.
Common mistakes facing AI format tests
Reacting to every screenshot; buying “AI Mode optimisation” from anyone promising positions; changing campaign structure without data; ignoring the base (feed, pages, measurement); and forgetting that classic Search remains the essential part of spend. Each mistake wastes time and budget. Prudence and basic preparation are worth more than racing to trends.
Frequently asked questions
Do AI Mode ads reach Portugal?
There is no confirmation: sources indicate no markets and Google had no announced plans for the EU.
Can I buy positions in AI Mode ads?
There is no position guarantee in Google ads. Distrust anyone who promises it.
Are these tests official?
They’re user observations, with no Google statement cited.
Sources consulted
Keep reading
- Google tests ads in AI Mode with Personal Intelligence and shows offers in Shopping ads: what is known and what isn't
- Local SEO and PPC in Portugal: how they complement each other, with the Business Profile, reviews and AI Overviews changing the results page
- Content that answers questions: FAQ, structured data and how to write for people and for AI answers