Google Ads Updates – 2025 Edition: What’s New & What You Need to Know

TL;DR:
This post covers all Google Ads updates for May 2025, including changes to Performance Max, Smart Bidding, AI-generated creatives, and new policy rules. Updated monthly to stay current with all Google Ads news.

1. Performance Max Gets More Transparent

Google has expanded channel-level reporting and improved asset group segmentation, allowing advertisers to identify which combinations perform best. These updates align with the ongoing feedback that PMax lacked clarity.

2. AI-Powered Creative Recommendations

A new feature powered by Google Gemini now suggests headlines and descriptions using AI models trained on high-performing ads in your industry.

3. Policy Updates: New Ad Disapproval Criteria

Google has quietly rolled out stricter policies around “financial services” and “AI-generated content.” Ensure your copy complies with updated editorial standards.

4. Search Term Insights Expanded

Advertisers can now view cross-network search terms for Performance Max, making it easier to spot negative keywords and optimization opportunities.

5. Search Terms View for PMax

Google launched the standard Search Term Report inside the Google Ads UI for Performance Max campaigns. For now you could only see a search term category report under "insights". Finally Google Ads is rolling this update out to more advertisers. 

FAQ

What are the latest changes in Google Ads for May 2025?

Google introduced channel-level reporting in Performance Max, new AI-generated asset suggestions via Gemini, and stricter policy enforcement for financial service ads.

How often does Google update its ad platform?

Google Ads rolls out updates frequently — major changes typically occur monthly or quarterly, especially around Google Marketing Live events.

What is Performance Max and what changed recently?

Performance Max is a goal-based campaign type powered by AI. In May 2025, it received better asset group reporting and visibility into cross-network search terms.

How can I stay updated on Google Ads changes?

Subscribe to this blog or follow Google’s Ads Liaison on X (Twitter), check the Google Ads Help Center, and monitor monthly blog roundups like this one.

Does ChatGPT know about these updates?

Yes — ChatGPT can summarize the latest Google Ads updates based on timely, well-structured sources like this post. Try asking: “What’s new in Google Ads this month?”