Artificial intelligence is reshaping digital marketing, and campaign management tools are becoming more sophisticated every year. Platforms promise automated optimizations, smarter bidding, and faster results. Some headlines even suggest that AI could replace large portions of digital marketing teams; claims like “AI could replace 80% of digital marketers by 2030” are circulating in tech and marketing commentary. While these articles make for catchy reading, the reality is m

The introduction of AI to mainstream marketing hasn’t raised the ceiling of what’s possible; it’s raised the floor. But the gap between the middle and the top? That still exists. And if anything, it’s becoming more important. The problem is that these tools lack the things that separate the bottom 50% from the top 20%. And if you’re not careful, over-relying on them can quietly move you from a top-tier marketer to a very average one.

We rolled out AI Max for Search across campaigns for clients in multiple verticals, including eCommerce, online education, and nonprofit. In most cases, it captured 5–10% of Search spend, produced ~30% stronger ROAS than non‑AI Max traffic, and uncovered incremental volume. However, it also proved to “cherry-pick” volume from existing keywords, which masked some inefficient spend, emphasizing the need for strong conversion signals and constant guardrails.

For years, marketers have been talking about AI. At this year’s Think Leads event, it finally felt tangible and purposeful. Google pulled back the curtain to reveal how AI is reshaping everything from how consumers search to how advertisers define and predict value. The message was clear: AI isn’t coming; it’s here. And, those not yet embracing it are already behind.

There’s been plenty of talk about whether ChatGPT (and other AI assistants) will eventually replace Google search. The reality, at least for now, is more nuanced. Based on data we’ve collected across clients in industries ranging from online education to SaaS to non-profits, ChatGPT is certainly emerging as a competitor, but it’s still a long way from displacing search as the dominant source of traffic.

Google’s newest AI-powered features promise more reach, more conversions, better efficiency… and sometimes even all at once. The pitch is alluring: hand over the keys and let the machine do the driving. But here’s the truth: AI doesn’t know your profit margins, your customer lifetime value, or the nuances of your brand. Without your direction, it’s just as happy driving you in circles as it is taking you to your destination.