Google testing new Fiber TV ad-targeting method based on viewing history

Google has revealed that it is rolling out a new ad delivery process to its Fiber TV service in Kansas City. The company says the new ad-targeting process is similar to what it already does on mobile devices. Normally, television ads are sold based on entire markets, not the individual user. With this new ad-targeting method, however, local Kansas City advertisers will be able to target specific users with their advertisements.

Google says that the ads can be shown to users based on geography, the type of content being watched, and viewing history. For instance, this means that if you have a tendency to watch sports programming, you’ll be more likely to see advertisements for athletic related products and services. But if you have a history of watching cooking shows, you’ll see more of those types of ads.

This ad delivery method also has the potential to lower ad costs for businesses. The advertisers will pay only for ads that have been shown, and can limit the number of times an ad is shown to a specific user.

Fiber TV ads will be digitally delivered in real time and can be matched based on geography, the type of program being shown (eg, sports or news), or viewing history. You can opt out of seeing ads that are based on viewing history from the Fiber TV settings.

If you’re a local business in Kansas City, just as with digital ads, you’ll only pay for ads that have been shown, and can limit the number of times an ad is shown to a given TV.

Google’s new Fiber TV ad-targeting method is currently in testing for Kansas City Fiber customers and advertisers only, although if it proves successful, we can assume that it will roll out to other Fiber markets quickly. Google also notes that users concerned about privacy can opt-out of ads shown based on viewing history.