Google appears to be testing new branded search controls

As a business owner, staying on top of the latest digital marketing trends is crucial for online growth. Recently, a new feature has been spotted in...

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Google appears to be testing new branded search controls

June 1, 2026 / Xmedia

As a business owner, staying on top of the latest digital marketing trends is crucial for online growth. Recently, a new feature has been spotted in Google’s AI Max campaigns that could give advertisers more control over branded searches. This development addresses a major concern marketers have raised since the campaign type launched. With this new feature, advertisers may soon be able to choose how their AI Max campaigns participate in branded searches.

This new feature is a significant development for businesses looking to optimize their online advertising strategy. By giving advertisers more control over branded searches, Google is responding to concerns around brand traffic management. This could have a major impact on how businesses approach their digital marketing strategy, particularly when it comes to SEO services and Social Media Marketing marketing.

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Digital Marketing Strategy and Branded Searches

A key part of any digital marketing strategy is understanding how to manage branded searches. Branded searches are searches that include a company’s brand name or keywords related to their brand. Until now, advertisers have had limited control over how their AI Max campaigns handle branded searches. This has led to concerns about higher costs, attribution complications, and reduced visibility into incremental performance.

The new feature, which is currently being tested, appears to offer three options for handling branded searches. Advertisers can choose to show ads on all relevant searches, control branded searches using brand inclusions and exclusions, or show ads only on unbranded searches. This last option could be particularly useful for businesses looking to keep their AI Max campaigns focused on net-new demand and prospecting opportunities.

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Benefits of the New Feature

The newly spotted “unbranded only” option could give advertisers a more direct way to keep AI Max focused on new demand and prospecting opportunities. This could be a major benefit for businesses looking to optimize their digital marketing strategy and improve their return on investment (ROI). By separating branded and non-branded traffic more cleanly, advertisers can gain greater insights into their campaign performance and make more informed decisions about their marketing strategy.

Impact on SEO Services and Social Media Marketing

The new feature could also have an impact on SEO services and social media marketing. By giving advertisers more control over branded searches, Google is highlighting the importance of a comprehensive digital marketing strategy that includes both SEO and social media marketing. Businesses that optimize their website design and content marketing strategy for SEO can improve their visibility in search engine results pages (SERPs) and drive more traffic to their website.

What to Watch and Next Steps

It’s unclear whether this is an official launch, a limited beta, or an experiment being tested in select accounts. Advertisers should monitor their AI Max campaign settings and watch for announcements from Google about expanded branded search controls. As a business owner, it’s essential to stay on top of the latest developments in digital marketing and adjust your strategy accordingly. Consider partnering with a Digital Marketing Agency like XMedia Marketing & Solutions to help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of online marketing and optimize your digital marketing strategy for maximum ROI.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is SEO strategy important for businesses?

SEO strategy helps businesses improve online visibility, attract better leads, and build stronger customer trust over time.

How can businesses use this strategy?

Businesses can start with clear goals, consistent content, strong website pages, and measurable campaigns that connect marketing activity with enquiries or sales.

How can XMedia Marketing & Solutions help?

XMedia Marketing & Solutions supports brands with digital marketing strategy, content, social media, website design, SEO, and campaign execution.

Published by: XMedia Marketing & Solutions

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