AI is changing Google searches from "queries to quests"
- Apr 17, 2026
- 0:59
- Short
With new developments in AI, Joshua Spanier, Vice President of AI and Marketing Strategy at Google, discusses how AI is transforming search behavior on Google and their advertising features and offerings.
ABOUT THE EPISODE Joshua Spanier, Vice President of AI and Marketing Strategy at Google, joins Barbara & Americus to discuss how artificial intelligence is transforming marketing from efficiency-driven automation to creative empowerment, redefining customer value, and enabling more personalized, “quest”-based consumer experiences.
ABOUT THE PODCAST Marketing Matters is hosted by Wharton marketing professors Barbara Kahn and Americus Reed. Each week they discuss marketing and advertising trends, consumer behavior, data and analytics, the latest in retail marketing, brand-building, and much more with their expert guests. Episodes are recorded at the Wharton School.
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Brief Summary
AI is transforming Google search and advertising, increasing engagement and performance.
Key points
- AI Transforms Search Queries. AI has shifted the nature of Google searches from simple queries to engaging quests.
- Younger Audiences Engage More. Younger users are increasingly engaging with Google and YouTube, indicating a shift in usage patterns.
- AI Drives Performance. Google's AI products significantly enhance marketing effectiveness and performance in the marketplace.
Episode highlights
- AI Transforms Search QueriesAI has shifted the nature of Google searches from simple queries to engaging quests.“AI has transformed queries into quests.”0:21Apr 17, 2026
- Younger Audiences Engage MoreYounger users are increasingly engaging with Google and YouTube, indicating a shift in usage patterns.“We're seeing higher engagement from younger audiences.”0:25Apr 17, 2026





