Google to launch localised, flexible TV ads via Fiber service

Google is reportedly testing a new ad feature for Google Fiber that will bring internet-like ads on TV. The local advertising service will collect data from the set-top boxes about the number of times a particular ad was watched in homes with Google Fiber.

Unlike the standard policy of cable operators, Google will only charge for the number of views an ad receives. It will further crunch data about the shows watched to throw targeted ads at viewers.

A report in The Verge said that the service will also customise ads based on the location of the viewer, which means two viewers in different localities will be shown different ads during the same show.

Advertisers also have an option to tell Google to stop showing a particular ad once they have achieved a certain target. This flexibility to pull out and insert ads is particularly useful for those who want to showcase teaser ads or campaign-based ads.

Traditionally, cable companies have sold advertising time during nationally-broadcast shows to local small businesses, but those are far more static than what Google is envisioning.

Google has said that it will be even able to swap out ads on DVRs or recorded programs, so you won't see an old or irrelevant advertisement if you watch a program a week after it originally aired. Viewers, on the other hand, will have a choice to disable ads based on viewing history.

The new ad feature will be rolled out as a limited trial in Kansas City for now, and could expand to the Google Fiber's other launch cities soon.