AI search is becoming the dominant force in 2026, with platforms like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google's AI-driven results shaping how users find and trust information, shifting the focus from "being found" to "being chosen as the answer."
Advertising is evolving to integrate with AI-driven search, moving from keyword-based targeting to context-aware, conversational ads. This change means brands must optimize for being cited as authoritative sources rather than just ranking for keywords.
The financial pressure on AI platforms is driving the shift to advertising, as seen with OpenAI's hiring of ad experts and internal revenue projections. This signals that 2026 will be a critical year for brands to adapt or risk falling behind in the new AI-driven marketing landscape.