AI Mode tested a text link ad format that reads like part of the AI response

Google was spotted testing a text-based link ad format inside AI Mode. The ads render as ordinary anchor text links in the style of an AI Mode answer, labeled only with a 'Sponsored' marker above the AI-generated response, on both desktop and mobile.

• Spotted by Sachin Patel, who posted desktop and mobile screenshots on X and Search Engine Watch.
• Distinct from the existing AI Mode ad units, which are separated out below the AI response or shown as Shopping carousels.
• Google showed unlabeled text anchor links in AI Mode responses back in April 2026; this is the first time they have appeared as paid placements.