Google is reportedly testing a pilot program that pays publishers for their content’s contribution to the company’s AI-powered search results, according to The Information and additional reporting cited by Digiday. The program reportedly includes around 100 publishers. Some publishers, based on figures described in coverage, have reportedly earned more than $1 million over a year, while others have received roughly $50,000 to $60,000.
In the pilot, publishers who opt in reportedly see an additional “AI contribution” widget in their Google Search Console dashboard. The widget shows a monthly earnings number and some history, but the exact payout calculation is not fully disclosed. Payments are described as being based on perceived value to AI-generated responses rather than raw usage metrics, with at least one source describing the system as “black box.”
Different outlets emphasize different aspects: coverage notes that Google is facing scrutiny over how AI search features affect publisher traffic, and that the pilot appears to extend beyond news publishers. Reporting also indicates Google has approached at least dozens of publishers, with the program reportedly appealing more to small and mid-sized publishers than large ones. Publishers can opt out at any time, and final confirmation of participation levels is described as limited.
