Why Your Fill Rate Is Low and How to Fix It Fast

When your fill rate drops, you’re not just losing impressions you’re leaving money on the table. Every percentage point you’re missing could mean hundreds (or thousands) in lost revenue this month.

Let’s fix that
You’ve probably heard the usual stuff:

• Just add more demand partners
• Optimize your floor prices
• Try lazy loading

But here’s the truth those are surface level fixes.

For publishers already making $2K+/month, the real issues are under the hood in timeouts, SDK settings, invalid traffic filters, and bid logic most people never touch.

If you’re looking for a foundational overview of common fill rate issues in Google AdExchange, check out our post on “Top Reasons for Low Fill Rate Issues in Google AdExchange“.

The steps below go beyond the basics they’re meant for publishers already running programmatic at scale and looking to solve deeper technical bottlenecks.

Let’s walk through the actual things hurting your fill rate and how to fix them this week.

1. Your Timeout Setting Is Too Short for Your Bidders

Example:
You’ve got Prebid set to timeout at 800ms, but some of your best paying demand partners consistently return bids at 1.2–1.5s.

Result? Their bids never make it to the auction. You lose the fill and the CPM.

Fix:
➡️ Increase your Prebid or header bidding timeout to 1200–1500ms, depending on your average network latency.

Where to check:

• Prebid config file (setConfig { timeout: 1500 })
• GAM delivery diagnostics
• Chrome DevTools → Network tab → measure bid response times

2. Your SDKs Aren’t All Talking to Each Other

Example:
Your app uses Google Mobile Ads SDK, but you also added a third-party SDK for mediation. They’re not in sync some impressions time out or error out completely.

Fix:
➡️ Update all SDKs to the latest versions.
➡️ Make sure mediation chains are properly ordered and using fallback logic.

Where to check:

• Android/iOS logcat logs
• Your mediation platform
• Crashlytics or error monitoring tools

3. Your Ad Unit Sizes Don’t Match Demand Expectations

Example:
You’re serving 300×250 units in a layout labeled as “responsive,” but the ad call renders them in a 600px-wide container. Many DSPs reject mismatched size impressions, especially on mobile.

Fix:
➡️ Make sure your ad slots match exactly the size of the actual container and declared size in the ad request.
➡️ Use data-ad-sizes properly if you’re using GPT.

Where to check:

• Chrome DevTools → Inspect element
• Google Publisher Console (?google_console=1)
• Ad unit settings in Google Ad Manager

4. You’re Sending Low Quality or Invalid Traffic (Without Knowing)

Example:
You bought cheap traffic from an aggregator or your audience skews too heavily toward one GEO. DSPs detect this as non-converting or suspicious traffic. They stop bidding.

Fix:
➡️ Run your domain through traffic quality tools (like IAS, Pixalate, or HUMAN).
➡️ Segment traffic by source and block low-quality referrers in GAM or via SSP rules.

Where to check:

• SSP dashboards
• GAM reports by traffic source/referrer
• 3rd-party verification platforms

5. Your Line Item Priorities Are Misconfigured in GAM

Example:
You’ve got programmatic demand running at priority 12, but remnant house ads are set at priority 10. GAM fills with house ads before paid demand even has a shot.

Fix:
➡️ Double-check all line item priorities.
➡️ Paid demand (especially AdX or Open Bidding) should run at priority 12 or 13, not below house ads.

Where to check:

• Google Ad Manager → Delivery → Line Items → Priority column

For a full breakdown of how to configure and prioritize Ad Exchange demand correctly, refer to Google’s guide on Best practices for Ad Exchange line items.

6. You’re Using Outdated Formats That Buyers Don’t Want

Example:
You’re still using banner-only ad units. Some DSPs are shifting spend to native, rich media, or video inventory and deprioritize basic banners.

Fix:
➡️ Test adding native or video ad units where appropriate.
➡️ Make sure the creatives are loading properly and the placements are viewable.

Where to check:

• GAM Ad Unit settings
• Active creative types per SSP

Quick Action Checklist for Fixing Your Fill Rate This Week

• Increase your header bidding timeout to 1200–1500ms.
• Update SDKs across your app or site to ensure they’re all compatible.
• Verify your ad unit sizes match the container sizes and declared request sizes.
• Run a traffic quality audit using tools like IAS or Pixalate.
• Check and adjust line item priorities in Google Ad Manager.
• Add new ad formats like native or video to expand your demand pool.

Need Help?

If you’re struggling to get your fill rate where it needs to be, consider a free audit from MagicBid. Contact us today at support@magicbid.ai We can help you identify the issues specific to your setup and provide actionable recommendations.

Fixing your fill rate isn’t a one-size-fits-all process, but with these specific actions, you should see a difference this week. Time to stop leaving money on the table and start optimizing for more revenue.

How MagicBid Helps You Earn More

If you’re not making the most of your ad space, you’re leaving money on the table.

MagicBid helps web, app, and CTV publishers maximize revenue with smarter ad placement and optimization tools.

• Web Monetization: Get better ad visibility, higher engagement, and more revenue from every impression.
• In-App Monetization: Connect with premium advertisers to effortlessly boost fill rates and eCPMs.
• CTV Monetization: Deliver high-quality, tailored ad experiences that keep viewers engaged and advertisers paying more.

With MagicBid’s advanced ad tech and expert support, you can turn your traffic into higher earnings without the guesswork.

Connect with us now to get a free ad revenue evaluation.

As a publisher striving to maximize your ad revenue, effectively managing your ad inventory is paramount. Google Ad Manager (GAM) provides a robust platform for this, offering granular control over your ad operations.

A crucial step in optimizing your monetization strategy is linking your AdSense account with your GAM network. This integration unlocks significant benefits and streamlines your workflow.

Why Linking Your AdSense Account to GAM Matters

Connecting your AdSense account to GAM offers several key advantages:

• Unified Reporting:

Gain a holistic view of your earnings across all your direct-sold campaigns and AdSense/Ad Exchange demand within the GAM interface. This eliminates the need to switch between platforms for performance analysis.

• Simplified Trafficking:

Easily traffic AdSense ad units directly within GAM, alongside your other ad sources. This simplifies your ad operations and reduces the complexity of managing multiple systems.

• Access to Ad Exchange (AdX) Features (if eligible):

Linking your AdSense account can pave the way for accessing the powerful features of Google Ad Exchange, including open auction, preferred deals, and private auctions, potentially increasing your revenue through broader demand competition.

• Optimized Competition:

GAM can intelligently manage the competition between your direct-sold ads and your AdSense/AdX demand, ensuring you’re always serving the highest-paying ad available.

• Centralized Payment Management:

While payments still originate from AdSense, having the link established provides a clearer overview of your total ad revenue within the GAM environment.

Why Aren’t AdSense/AdX Linking Options Showing in GAM?

You might encounter situations where the option to link your AdSense or AdX account isn’t readily visible within your GAM interface. Here are the common reasons for this:

1. Your GAM Network is Not Yet Eligible:

New GAM networks might not have the AdSense linking functionality enabled by default. Google needs to provision this feature for your specific network.

2. Incorrect User Permissions:

The user account you are using to access GAM might not have the necessary administrative permissions to link accounts. You typically need administrator-level access.

3. AdSense Account Association:

Ensure the AdSense account you are trying to link is in good standing and doesn’t have any policy violations.

4. MCM (Multiple Customer Management) Implications:

If your GAM network is part of an MCM setup (as is the case with MagicBid.ai as a channel partner), the linking process might be handled centrally or require specific steps within the MCM parent account.

5. Account Type Mismatch:

In some specific scenarios, there might be a mismatch in the account types or configurations that prevent direct linking.

How to Enable or Activate AdSense/AdX Linking in GAM

The process to enable AdSense/AdX linking typically involves the following steps. Keep in mind that the exact interface might vary slightly.

Steps to Link Your AdSense Account to GAM:

1. Log in to Google Ad Manager: Access your GAM account using an administrator-level login.

2. Navigate to Admin Settings: Click on the “Admin” tab in the top navigation menu.

3. Select Linked Accounts: In the left-hand sidebar, look for the “Linked accounts” or a similar option (it might be under “Global settings” or “Network settings”).

4. Find the AdSense Section: You should see a section dedicated to Google AdSense.

5. Enter Your AdSense Publisher ID: Click on the “Link AdSense account” button (or similar). 

You will be prompted to enter your AdSense Publisher ID. This ID typically looks like ca-pub-xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx. You can find this ID in your AdSense account settings.

6. Initiate the Linking Process: After entering your Publisher ID, click “Save” or “Link account.”

7. Authorize in AdSense (If Required): In some cases, you might need to log in to your AdSense account and authorize the link from the AdSense side. 

Look for a notification or a “Sites” or “Account” section where you can approve the GAM network’s request.

8. Wait for Confirmation: Once the process is initiated, it might take some time for the link to be fully established. You should see the status of the linked account update in your GAM settings.

Important Note for MCM Partners (Like MagicBid.ai):

If your GAM network is managed under a Google MCM channel partner like MagicBid.ai, the AdSense linking process might be slightly different.

In many cases, MagicBid.ai will facilitate this linking process for you or provide specific instructions tailored to their setup.

Do not attempt to directly link your AdSense account without consulting with your MagicBid.ai account manager first. Doing so might lead to complications or disrupt your existing setup.

How MagicBid.ai Can Help You Activate This Linking Feature

As a Google MCM channel partner, MagicBid.ai plays a crucial role in helping publishers like you optimize your monetization.

When it comes to linking your AdSense account to GAM, MagicBid.ai can assist you in the following ways:

• Guidance and Expertise:

MagicBid.ai’s experienced team can provide you with clear, step-by-step instructions specific to their MCM setup, ensuring a smooth and error-free linking process.

• Facilitating the Linking Process:

In some cases, MagicBid.ai might directly handle the linking process on your behalf, saving you time and effort.

• Troubleshooting and Support:

If you encounter any issues during the linking process, MagicBid.ai’s support team can help diagnose and resolve the problem efficiently.

• Optimizing Your Setup:

Beyond just linking accounts, MagicBid.ai can provide valuable insights and strategies on how to best leverage the integration of AdSense and GAM to maximize your revenue potential within their MCM framework.

In conclusion, linking your AdSense account to Google Ad Manager is a fundamental step towards efficient ad management and revenue optimization.

While the process is generally straightforward, publishers working with an MCM partner like MagicBid.ai should leverage their expertise to ensure a seamless integration and unlock the full potential of this powerful combination. 

Reach out to your MagicBid.ai account manager today to learn how they can help you activate this crucial linking feature and elevate your monetization strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does it take for the AdSense account to be linked to GAM?

A: The linking process usually takes a few hours to complete. However, in some cases, it might take up to 24-48 hours for the status to be fully updated in both GAM and AdSense.

Q: Can I link multiple AdSense accounts to one GAM network?

A: Generally, it’s recommended to link one primary AdSense account to your GAM network for streamlined reporting and management. If you have specific needs for multiple AdSense accounts, consult with your MagicBid.ai account manager for the best approach within their MCM structure.

Q: What if I enter the wrong AdSense Publisher ID during the linking process?

A: If you’ve entered the wrong Publisher ID, you’ll likely need to unlink the incorrect account and then re-initiate the linking process with the correct ID. Refer to the GAM help documentation or contact MagicBid.ai support for guidance on unlinking.

Q: Will linking AdSense to GAM affect my AdSense payments?

A: No, linking your AdSense account to GAM does not change your AdSense payment process. Payments will continue to be issued by Google AdSense based on your AdSense payment settings and threshold.

Q: I don’t see the “Linked accounts” option in my GAM admin settings. What should I do?

A: If you can’t find the “Linked accounts” option, ensure you are logged in with an administrator-level account. If the option is still missing, it’s possible that the feature hasn’t been provisioned for your network yet, or there might be specific settings within the MagicBid.ai MCM structure that affect its visibility. Contact your MagicBid.ai account manager for assistance.

Q: Can I unlink my AdSense account from GAM if needed?

A: Yes, it is generally possible to unlink your AdSense account from GAM. However, if you are part of an MCM network like MagicBid.ai, it’s crucial to discuss this with your account manager before proceeding, as unlinking might have implications within the MCM setup.

Q: Does linking AdSense to GAM automatically give me access to Ad Exchange?

A: Not necessarily. Access to Ad Exchange (AdX) depends on Google’s eligibility criteria. Linking your AdSense account is often a prerequisite for accessing AdX features, but it doesn’t guarantee immediate access. MagicBid.ai can provide insights into AdX eligibility within their network.

Q: Who should I contact if I encounter issues while linking my AdSense account to GAM as a MagicBid.ai partner?

A: Your primary point of contact for any issues related to linking your AdSense account to GAM within the MagicBid.ai network should be your dedicated MagicBid.ai account manager or their support team. They have the specific knowledge of their MCM setup to assist you effectively.

How MagicBid Helps You Earn More

If you’re not making the most of your ad space, you’re leaving money on the table.

MagicBid helps web, app, and CTV publishers maximize revenue with smarter ad placement and optimization tools.

• Web Monetization: Get better ad visibility, higher engagement, and more revenue from every impression.
• In-App Monetization: Connect with premium advertisers to effortlessly boost fill rates and eCPMs.
• CTV Monetization: Deliver high-quality, tailored ad experiences that keep viewers engaged and advertisers paying more.

With MagicBid’s advanced ad tech and expert support, you can turn your traffic into higher earnings without the guesswork.

Connect with us now to get a free ad revenue evaluation.

Top Reasons for Low Fill Rate Issues in Google AdExchange

Introduction: Understanding Fill Rate in Google AdExchange

If you’re a publisher using Google AdExchange and noticing that many of your ad requests aren’t converting into served ads, you’re likely facing a low fill rate issue.

This can be frustrating especially when you know your content attracts traffic but your monetization isn’t matching up.

Fill rate is a critical metric for digital publishers. It directly impacts how much revenue you make from your ad inventory.

Understanding the root causes of low fill rates is the first step toward improving your monetization strategy. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the various reasons behind low fill rates in Google AdExchange and how you can fix them.

What Is Fill Rate and Why It Matters 

Definition of Fill Rate 

In simple terms, fill rate refers to the percentage of ad requests that result in actual ad impressions. It shows how effectively your ad space is being utilized. 

Fill Rate Formula 

Here’s the basic formula: 

Fill Rate = (Ad Impressions / Ad Requests) × 100 

For example, if you had 1,000 ad requests and only 700 impressions, your fill rate would be 70%.

Impact on Revenue and User Experience 

A low fill rate means a lot of your inventory is going unsold. This doesn’t just lower your ad revenue; it can also lead to poor user experiences, like blank ad slots or layout shifts.

Common Reasons Behind Low Fill Rate in Google AdExchange

1. Geo-Targeting Mismatches

If your site attracts users from countries where advertisers are less active, you may struggle with low fill rates. Advertisers typically bid more aggressively in markets like the US, UK, or Australia.

2. Ad Unit Misconfiguration

Even minor errors in ad unit setup—such as incorrect sizes, invalid placements, or missing targeting criteria can cause fill issues.

3. Low Bid Density from Buyers

Sometimes, there simply aren’t enough bids for your inventory. This can be due to market conditions or low-quality content that doesn’t attract premium advertisers.

4. Policy Violations or Ad Restrictions

Google has strict policies. If your content violates any of them (e.g., adult themes, illegal content, etc.), your ad units may get limited or blocked, reducing fill rate.

5. Inappropriate Ad Sizes or Formats

Some advertisers only buy specific sizes or formats. If you’re using uncommon ad units, the pool of potential buyers shrinks.

6. Inventory Oversaturation

Too many ad units per page can lead to lower competition for each slot, resulting in some ad requests going unfilled.

7. Floor Price Too High

If your floor price is higher than what buyers are willing to pay, your impressions may not be served at all.

Tools to Monitor and Analyze Fill Rate in Google AdExchange

• Google Ad Manager Reports

Create custom reports to track fill rate trends by device, geo, and ad unit.

• Real-Time Bidding (RTB) Analytics

RTB insights help you understand why bids aren’t being placed and what’s causing fill gaps.

• Third-Party Monitoring Solutions

Platforms like Adomik, PubGuru, and AdButler provide deeper insights and automation to improve fill rates.

Case Studies: Publishers Who Solved Low Fill Rate Issues

• Case Study 1: News Publisher

By reducing their floor prices and enabling more device formats, a major news site saw a 25% improvement in fill rate.

• Case Study 2: Mobile App Developer

A mobile app added rewarded video ads and saw its fill rate jump from 60% to 95% in just two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a good fill rate in Google AdExchange?​

A fill rate of 85-95% is generally considered good, though it may vary by niche and geography.

2. How do I check fill rate in Google Ad Manager?​

Go to the “Reports” tab, choose “Ad requests” and “Ad impressions”, and calculate the fill rate using the formula.

3. Can low traffic cause low fill rates?​

Yes. Lower traffic often results in fewer bids, which can directly impact fill rates.

4. How do I increase Google AdX fill rate for mobile apps?​

Use rewarded ads, interstitials, and native formats, and make sure your SDK is up to date.

5. What happens if fill rate is too low?​

You miss out on potential revenue, and user experience may suffer due to empty or slow-loading ad slots.

6. Should I use multiple ad networks to improve fill rate?​

Yes, mediation with multiple networks ensures better coverage when Google doesn’t fill an impression.

Conclusion: Diagnosing and Fixing Low Fill Rate Issues Effectively

Low fill rates in Google AdExchange are usually a symptom of deeper setup, demand, or policy issues.

Fortunately, with the right monitoring tools and optimization strategies, publishers can recover lost impressions and revenue.

Focus on quality content, proper ad setup, and diversified demand sources to ensure a high-performing monetization strategy.

How MagicBid Helps You Earn More

If you’re not making the most of your ad space, you’re leaving money on the table.

MagicBid helps web, app, and CTV publishers maximize revenue with smarter ad placement and optimization tools.

• Web Monetization: Get better ad visibility, higher engagement, and more revenue from every impression.
• In-App Monetization: Connect with premium advertisers to effortlessly boost fill rates and eCPMs.
• CTV Monetization: Deliver high-quality, tailored ad experiences that keep viewers engaged and advertisers paying more.

With MagicBid’s advanced ad tech and expert support, you can turn your traffic into higher earnings without the guesswork.

Connect with us now to get a free ad revenue evaluation.

Maximizing Revenue from CTV Inventory: Key Strategies for Publishers

As Connected TV (CTV) consumption grows, so do the revenue opportunities for publishers.

But more screens don’t always mean more money especially if your monetization setup isn’t built for today’s CTV environment.

If you’re a publisher looking to get more out of your CTV inventory in 2025, this blog breaks down what’s working, what’s hurting fill rates, and where the real revenue potential lies.

Why CTV Monetization Isn’t Just Plug and Play  

CTV might sound like this great opportunity. More viewers, longer watch times, and higher CPMs. But in reality, many publishers are leaving revenue on the table.

• CTV doesn’t work the same way as web or mobile. The tech setup, how people watch content, and the type of formats used it’s all different.

• Advertisers come in expecting more. They’re looking for top-tier inventory with high viewability, precise targeting, and measurable outcomes.

• But a lot of that inventory ends up going unused mostly because publishers either don’t have the right setup or aren’t using the best strategy to connect with demand.

Don’t Skip These CTV Setup Essentials in 2025

Let’s start with the fundamentals. Here are a few things every publisher should lock down:

1. Ensure Accurate Ad Declarations

Google and other platforms now require detailed, transparent labeling of your inventory types and placements. If these aren’t clear, demand sources may avoid your inventory.

2. Use the Right VAST Setup

Make sure your VAST tags follow platform specific rules. If ads don’t render properly or if measurement doesn’t work, you’re going to lose out on revenue.

3. Avoid Serving Ads When No One’s Watching

Don’t refresh or serve ads when screens are inactive or the content isn’t actually being viewed. This can lead to policy issues and reduce trust with buyers.

4. Display Ads Without Delay

For DOOH and similar formats, ads must show immediately after the request not minutes later. Ad delays can result in missed impressions and wasted opportunities.

The Real Challenges Publishers Face with CTV Fill Rates

Even when the setup is right, fill rates can fall short. Here’s what we’re hearing from publishers:

1. Mismatch between inventory and demand

Not all demand partners are built for CTV. If you’re relying on partners who primarily buy web traffic, you’re going to have unfilled spots.

2. Poor segmentation

Advertisers want to target by device type, content category, and viewing time. If your data is too general, they’ll skip bidding.

3. Inconsistent performance metrics

Buyers expect viewability, completion rates, and engagement metrics. If those aren’t being passed back correctly or if your video player isn’t optimized you’ll miss deals.

4. Pricing that scares buyers off

Many publishers set price floors too high, hoping to keep CPMs up. But if the floor is unrealistic, buyers don’t bid and inventory stays unsold.

CTV Monetization Strategies That Are Working in 2025

1. Commercial breaks

Breaking long-form content into structured ad pods (like TV commercial breaks) works well. But adding frequency capping and mixing skippable/non-skippable units increases user tolerance.

2. Contextual Targeting at the CTV Level

Without cookies, contextual data is becoming more important. Publishers who categorize shows by genre, mood, or audience type are seeing higher fill rates and CPMs.

3. Interactive Video Ads

Shoppable ads, QR codes, and remote-controlled interactions are delivering better engagement and higher bids from brands that want to drive direct response.

4. Partnering with CTV-Focused SSPs

Not all supply-side platforms are built for CTV. Publishers working with SSPs that specialize in video and OTT are getting more demand and better matching.

How to Keep Your CTV Revenue Growing

Things change fast in CTV, so staying sharp is key:

• Check your inventory setup often to fix issues and spot new chances to improve.

• Look at how each demand partner is performing don’t hesitate to try others if things feel slow.

• Make sure your ad tech is giving you clean, useful data. Buyers want transparency.

• Organize your content clearly so it’s easier for advertisers to target the right audiences.

• Watch for updates from Google and major DSPs rules shift, and staying informed helps you avoid surprises.

Final Thoughts 

CTV monetization is no longer just about filling ad slots. It’s about creating a structured, transparent, and performance ready environment that buyers want to invest in.

If you’re not seeing the revenue you expected, you might wanna change your strategy.

How MagicBid Helps You Earn More

If you’re not making the most of your ad space, you’re leaving money on the table.

MagicBid helps web, app, and CTV publishers maximize revenue with smarter ad placement and optimization tools.

• Web Monetization: Get better ad visibility, higher engagement, and more revenue from every impression.
• In-App Monetization: Connect with premium advertisers to effortlessly boost fill rates and eCPMs.
• CTV Monetization: Deliver high-quality, tailored ad experiences that keep viewers engaged and advertisers paying more.

With MagicBid’s advanced ad tech and expert support, you can turn your traffic into higher earnings without the guesswork.

Connect with us now to get a free ad revenue evaluation.

Ad Refresh Strategies: Do They Really Boost Revenue?

Publishers are constantly looking for ways to make more revenue out of their existing ad inventory without affecting the user experience. Ad refresh is one of the easiest strategies that often comes up in terms of doing that.

The idea is instead of showing a single ad when a user visits you refresh the ad every 30, 60, or 90 seconds. More impressions, more revenue right at least in theory. But is it effective?

Let’s talk about what exactly an ad refresh is, how it can affect revenue and user experience, and whether or not it’s worth adding to your monetization strategy.

What Is Ad Refresh?

Ad refresh is reloading an ad slot after a set amount of time while the user remains on the same page. Instead of the ad staying static, a new ad is served periodically, giving advertisers more chances to show their creatives and publishers more chances to earn.

There are different types of ad refresh:

● Time-based refresh: Ads reload after a fixed time (e.g., every 30,60 seconds).

● Event-based refresh: Ads are refreshed whenever a user clicks or scrolls.

● Active View-based refresh: Ads refresh only when they meet viewability standards.

While the ad refresh can increase the no of impressions the important question is whether or not ad refresh actually results in an increase in revenue and if so, at what cost.

But not all ad impressions are treated the same. Advertisers care about viewability not just the number of impressions.  

If ads are refreshed too quickly or are not actually seen or interacted with they may get lower bids over time hurting your CPM and affecting user experience.

Does Ad Refresh Really Increase CPM?

Yes, but only when done right. When ads are refreshed strategically, publishers can increase viewable impressions and overall revenue.

But if it’s overused or not optimized, it can backfire by reducing CPMs, lowering viewability scores, and even pushing advertisers away.

When Ad Refresh Helps:

● High Page Time

If users stay on your page for a long time like articles, forums, or live scores, refreshing ads after 30-60 seconds can make sense. You are making better use of the screen space because the user is engaged.

● Viewability Based Refresh

Refreshing ads only when they are viewable (e.g., 50% of the ad is on screen for 1 second or more) helps maintain advertiser trust. These impressions are more likely to be monetized at higher rates.

● Demand from the Programmatic Market

When there is a lot of demand from the Programmatic Market, ad refresh can help fill more impressions without making CPMs too low.

When It Hurts:

● Low Viewability

If ads are refreshing in areas users don’t scroll to, or refreshing too quickly, it can lower viewability scores. This is noticed by advertisers.

● Ad Fatigue

Refreshing ads too many times will hurt user experience and lead to higher bounce rates or lower session times.

A good rule of thumb? Keep refresh rates reasonable 30 seconds or more, non-viewable ads should not be refreshed, and the content should remain the primary focus.

● Invalid Traffic Risks

Poorly implemented ad refresh can trigger invalid traffic filters, which can lead to lost revenue or even account suspension.

Google Ad Manager has rules around ad refresh. Not all ad types can be refreshed, and if you’re refreshing ads that shouldn’t be, you risk policy violations or losing access to demand sources.

Data Behind Ad Refresh: What the Numbers Say

According to data from industry platforms, publishers using smart ad refresh (viewability-based, time-controlled) have seen 10% to 30% increases in revenue without major drops in CPM. However, aggressive refresh (e.g., every 20 seconds regardless of viewability) can result in lower fill rates and CPMs by 15%.

According to Ad Manager reports, advertisers value viewable impressions more than volume. Even with fewer total impressions, ads with a high viewability (above 70%) tend to earn higher CPMs.

Best Practices for Ad Refresh

If you’re thinking about trying or optimizing ad refresh, here’s what actually works:

● Refresh Only Viewable Ads

Active View or viewability triggers can be used to refresh ads that are in view. This protects your CPM

● Reasonable Intervals

30 to 60 seconds is a safe zone for most content types. Anything faster increases risks.

● Track Metrics

Pay close attention to metrics like viewability, CPM, and fill rate. If bounce rates go up or CPMs drop, reassess your settings

● Watch User Behavior

Are users leaving faster after Ad refresh is enabled? That’s a red flag.

● Test and Adjust

What works for one site might not work for another. Do A/B tests to discover the optimal balance between revenue and user experience.

● Communicate with Demand Partners

Some advertisers or platforms don’t allow refreshed impressions. Always check policies, especially with premium demand.

● Stay Compliant

Follow Google’s ad refresh policies carefully. Violations can hurt your monetization.

So, Is Ad Refresh Worth It?

It can be if done right. The mistake many publishers make is thinking ad refresh is a magic button for more revenue. It’s not. You need to be strategic, test results, and prioritize user experience.

Publishers who use smart refresh strategies are more likely to see consistent gains, while those who use aggressive or careless settings might see short-term spikes followed by long-term drops.

If your goal is sustainable revenue growth, focus on quality impressions, not just more impressions. Ad refresh is a tool and like any tool, it works best when used with purpose.

How MagicBid Helps You Earn More

If you’re not making the most of your ad space, you’re leaving money on the table.

MagicBid helps web, app, and CTV publishers maximize revenue with smarter ad placement and optimization tools.

• Web Monetization: Get better ad visibility, higher engagement, and more revenue from every impression.
• In-App Monetization: Connect with premium advertisers to effortlessly boost fill rates and eCPMs.
• CTV Monetization: Deliver high-quality, tailored ad experiences that keep viewers engaged and advertisers paying more.

With MagicBid’s advanced ad tech and expert support, you can turn your traffic into higher earnings without the guesswork.

Connect with us now to get a free ad revenue evaluation.

How AI is Changing Video Ad Targeting and Monetization

AI is changing for how video ads are to be delivered and furthermore monetized. There will no longer be a need to rely on broad audience targeting or guesswork to reach the appropriate audience by either publishers or advertisers.

The AI-driven tool provides real-time analysis of user behavior, content consumption and engagement behavior in order to serve ads that are relevant and less intrusive not only does this help with targeting but also enables publishers to increase revenue by optimizing ad placements, reducing wasted impressions and automating the whole process.

Here’s how AI facilitates those changes and what it means for the future of video advertising.

Smart Targeting

It used to be that video ad targeting was determined mostly by basic demographics and interests. AI changed that by using machine learning to learn through data and its ability to predict user behavior. Advertisers can now target viewers based on the following

● Viewing: What types of videos are users engaging with, for how long, and when are they most active?

● Relevance: AI scans the video content so that ad themes align with what the viewer is watching.

● Engagement: It can adjust ad delivery in real time based on actual user engagement with the content to optimize for ad frequency and placement for best results.

Monetization Strategies

AI does not only assist with targeting but also assists publishers with video content monetization, increasing revenue in several key ways:

1. Automated Buying

Manual bidding and campaign adjustment are the things of the past. AI-powered ad platforms Analyze market trends, competition, and historical performance to automatically adjust bids and placements in real time to get that high ROI for advertisers while boosting revenue for publishers.

2. Dynamic Placement

Not all ad placements perform the same. AI helps to determine the best placements for video ads based on real-time tracking of user attention and engagement.If an ad break causes viewers to drop off, AI has the means to adjust placements dynamically to improve retention and revenue.

3. Real-Time

AI continuously work to determine what ad formats, lengths, and placements bring in the highest CPMs. In real-time it can shift inventory accordingly, ensuring that high-value ad slots are filled with very premium demand

Companies like Tatari use AI-driven models to manage ad spend across different channels, making sure that campaigns are as efficient as possible

The Growing Role of AI in Ad Buying

AI is taking control of almost every aspect of programmatic advertisement. Ad platforms like Google, Meta, etc are now using machine learning to automate targeting, bidding, and optimization.

While this makes buying ads much more efficient, it certainly introduces several other concerns:

Less control

Since AI will be making decisions, advertisers and publishers will have less control over where ads appear and how budgets are spent.

Transparency issues

Some AI platforms act like “black boxes,” providing few insights into why one ad works better than another.

Privacy regulation

while AI is dependent on working with vast amounts of data, privacy laws such as GDPR are shaping how this technology can be used in advertising.

Despite these challenges, There’s no doubt that AI-based buying is proving itself to be more effective when compared to traditional methods.

It allows for real-time, data-based decisions instead of relying on outdated assumptions.

What’s Next for AI in Video Ads?

AI keeps getting smarter, and everything points to a much more automated and personalized future for video advertising. Here is a few things you can expect:

Hyper-personalized ads

AI will deliver ads that are tailor-fitted to individual users, adjusting everything from messaging to visuals based on their past interactions.

More interactive video ads

Interactive and shop-able ads enabled by AI allow viewers to directly interact with products without leaving the video.

Deeper integration into CTV and streaming

As more switch to Connected TV (CTV), AI will enhance optimizing ad placements and viewer experiences.

Ad agencies are already investing in AI-driven creative tools. For example, WPP has collaborated with Stability AI in an effort to introduce generative AI into ad production allowing brands to develop highly personalized ad content at scale.

Final Thoughts

Video ad targeting and monetization with AI will become more targeted and profitable. With automated media buying, real-time optimization, and smarter ad placements, publishers and advertisers can reduce wasted spend and improve engagement.

Although AI does face some challenges, the benefits far outweigh the risks. The key is to stay informed, experiment with AI-powered tools, Adapt as technology is in a constant state of evolution.

Those who embrace the advances AI has in store for video advertising will find themselves in the best position to drive revenue growth and improved ad experience.

How MagicBid Helps You Earn More

If you’re not making the most of your ad space, you’re leaving money on the table.

MagicBid helps web, app, and CTV publishers maximize revenue with smarter ad placement and optimization tools.

• Web Monetization: Get better ad visibility, higher engagement, and more revenue from every impression.
• In-App Monetization: Connect with premium advertisers to effortlessly boost fill rates and eCPMs.
• CTV Monetization: Deliver high-quality, tailored ad experiences that keep viewers engaged and advertisers paying more.

With MagicBid’s advanced ad tech and expert support, you can turn your traffic into higher earnings without the guesswork.

Connect with us now to get a free ad revenue evaluation.

Google March 2025 Core Update: What You Need to Know

This update started on March 13, 2025 is making changes in the search engine ranking and the update will be fully out in the next 2 weeks. If you’re noticing sudden changes in traffic or ranking this could be the reason. 

Google prioritizes user focused content that is helpful for users while dialing back on low value content that is designed for SEO ranking.

We’ll cover more on what’s happening, how it impacts ad tech and programmatic strategies, and what you need to do next.

What’s Changing?

As this update rolls out, we are already seeing changes in search rankings. Google’s goal is to prioritize content that’s actually helpful for the user. Here’s what we have been seeing so far.

Content Quality First 

Google is prioritizing content that is helpful, user focused content and Websites that only try to rank on Google without offering real value will be affected by this update.

Forum Content

Google is changing how it ranks user-generated content Some forum-based websites, like Reddit, are becoming more popular, and others are becoming less visible. 

Industry

This update will affect multiple industries like retail, government sites, publishers and more.

What It Means for Programmatic and Ad Tech

1. Traffic Quality

Sites that are losing organic traffic will likely see changes in their audience behavior. If you’ve been taking advantage of high-volume, low-quality traffic sources, You may wanna consider that 

2. Ad Revenue

A decline in organic traffic means fewer impressions and lower CPMs. Publishers need to diversify traffic sources and optimize ad placements to maintain revenue.

3. User Intent

Ads and content should focus on what users want. The more relevant your ads and content are, the better they will perform compared to generic ads.

4. Real-Time

Website owners need to watch their traffic closely. Looking at which pages and keywords are affected will help adjust strategies.

5. Traffic Sources

Relying solely on Google organic traffic is risky. Exploring different traffic sources like social media, direct traffic, and paid ads can help bring in more users.

6. Changes in Indexing

Google is reducing the number of pages it indexes. This affects how ads appear and how traffic moves between pages.

Important Things to Know

The ranking changes seen before March 13 were due to other updates, not this core update. Google is always making improvements.

This update is about quality, not just quantity. Websites that focus on user experience and helpful content will do better.

Tracking data in real-time is important. Keeping an eye on traffic changes will help businesses adapt quickly.

What’s Next?

This update shows that having good content and a smart strategy is key to success. Websites and ad tech professionals must stay flexible, focus on user experience, and use data to guide their decisions. By doing this, they can continue to grow even with Google’s changes.

How MagicBid Helps You Earn More

If you’re not making the most of your ad space, you’re leaving money on the table.

MagicBid helps web, app, and CTV publishers maximize revenue with smarter ad placement and optimization tools.

• Web Monetization: Get better ad visibility, higher engagement, and more revenue from every impression.
• In-App Monetization: Connect with premium advertisers to effortlessly boost fill rates and eCPMs.
• CTV Monetization: Deliver high-quality, tailored ad experiences that keep viewers engaged and advertisers paying more.

With MagicBid’s advanced ad tech and expert support, you can turn your traffic into higher earnings without the guesswork.

Connect with us now to get a free ad revenue evaluation.

Ad Serving Limits in 2025: What Publishers Need to Know

If you’re a publisher monetizing content through AdSense or ad platforms,

You likely have come across ad limit at some point. These ad limits can make a difference in your revenue especially if it’s your main revenue source.

We will deep dive into what ad serving limits are why they happen and so much more   

What Are Ad Serving Limits? 

Ad serving limits the number of ads that can be shown on your website or app within a given period. These limits can come from Google AdSense, AdMob, Ad Manager, ad exchanges, or even set by publishers themselves. 

The goal is to keep the user experience smooth and to avoid too many or low-quality ad placements that can annoy users or trigger policy violations. Limits typically focus on things like:

• Frequency: How often an ad is shown to a single user.
• Device Based: Ads may be restricted on desktop vs mobile. 
• Publisher-specific: Some publishers enforce their own stricter controls.

Ad serving limit are designed to protect users from getting bored with ads, stop spamming, and make sure that advertisers get quality impressions.

Why Do Ad Serving Limits Happen?

Google’s systems apply limits for several reasons, especially if there are concerns about invalid traffic, policy violations, or poor user experience. The most typical causes are as follows: 

1. Invalid Traffic

This is the biggest reason for ad limits including any traffic that doesn’t come from real users- bots, accidental clicks, click fraud. If Google detects suspicious traffic patterns, your ad serving may be limited.

2. Policy

If your content or ad placement violates Google’s policies for example, too many ads on a page, misleading content, or interfering ad formats you could face limits.

3. Quality

Google wants to ensure that your content is useful, the site isn’t slow and has clear navigation for users and having too little content can lead to limits.

4. User Experience

If your site is overloaded with ads, or if they’re placed in ways that affect user experience if engagement drops, so does your ability to serve ads.

Ad Serving Limit Types

Account Being Assessed

Google is examining your content and traffic. This could be temporary, and your revenue might decrease during that time.

Invalid Traffic

Google has limited your ad serving after detecting IVT. Until the issue is fixed, these limitations remain in place. 

Placement Limits

Google places restrictions on how many and where advertisements can appear on your pages.

Account Level Restrictions

Google may restrict your entire account from serving ads. This happens when there are repeated or severe policy violations.

How to Handle Ad Limits Effectively

1. Identify the Issue

Check your AdSense dashboard for any alerts. Google typically explains why a limit was imposed. Analyze your traffic sources, check ad placements, and review your content.

2. Address the Cause

• For IVT: Use tools to block fake traffic, like Traffic Cop or similar services.
• For policy violations: Fix the problem areas poor ad placement, bad content, or slow load times.
• Don’t delete and recreate ad units this will not solve the issue.

3. Improve Site Quality

Focus on original, engaging content. Optimize site speed, especially on mobile. Make navigation easy and ads less intrusive.

4. Monitor and Test

Use tools like Google’s Ad Review Center to manage which ads run on your site. Adjust your ad balance settings and avoid placing too many ads on low-content pages.

5. Request a Review

Once changes are made, request a review through your AdSense dashboard. Be concise and provide proof that the issue has been resolved.

Proactive Tips to Avoid Limits

• Stick to Policy: Always follow AdSense guidelines for ad placement and content.
• Audit Regularly: Do manual checks of your site for user experience, content quality, and ad implementation.
• Track Traffic Sources: Know where your visitors are coming from. Sudden spikes from low-quality sources can trigger flags.
• Improve Content: The better your content, the more likely you’ll attract real, engaged users not bots.
• Site Performance: Make sure your site loads fast and is mobile-optimized.

Recovering from Ad Limits

If you do hit a limit, stay patient. Resolution times vary. Focus on improving quality and be ready to explore alternate revenue streams in the short term.

Estimate potential losses and take steps to prevent future disruptions. Remember, managing ad serving limits isn’t just about avoiding penalties it’s about maintaining trust with users and advertisers.

If you need help navigating ad monetization, smart strategies, and compliance, working with a team that understands the space can save you a lot of headaches.

 At MagicBid, we help publishers avoid common pitfalls, maximize their revenue, and stay on the right side of platform policies so you can focus on growing your traffic and earnings.

How MagicBid Helps You Earn More

If you’re not making the most of your ad space, you’re leaving money on the table.

MagicBid helps web, app, and CTV publishers maximize revenue with smarter ad placement and optimization tools.

• Web Monetization: Get better ad visibility, higher engagement, and more revenue from every impression.
• In-App Monetization: Connect with premium advertisers to effortlessly boost fill rates and eCPMs.
• CTV Monetization: Deliver high-quality, tailored ad experiences that keep viewers engaged and advertisers paying more.

With MagicBid’s advanced ad tech and expert support, you can turn your traffic into higher earnings without the guesswork.

Connect with us now to get a free ad revenue evaluation.

How to Improve Ad Viewability & Increase Your Ad Revenue

AD Viewability has become significantly important in digital advertising. It’s an important metric for publishers looking to maximize ad revenue. In simple terms, viewability confirms that an ad has the opportunity to be seen by a user.

If an ad isn’t viewable, it can’t engage, convert, or generate revenue, making ad viewability the most important part of monetization for both publishers and advertisers.

What Is Ad Viewability?

An advertisement view is counted if at least 50 percent of the pixels of the advertisement are in view for at least one second in case of display ads or at least two seconds in case of video ads. In this way, there are fair chances for ads to grab the viewer’s attention. 

Factors Affecting Ad Viewability

Placement:

Ads that appear on top of the page without the user having to scroll have higher viewability rates.

Ad Size and Format:

Vertical ad such as 120×240, 240×400,160×600 have higher viewability rates, especially on mobile devices.

Design and Layout:

Proper spacing improves viewability and it will also make sure the ad will stand a better chance of being seen.

Load Speed:

The quicker the pages load, the ads render quickly and the higher the chances of the ad being seen. Implementing asynchronous ad loading can enhance ad delivery speed.

Strategies to Improve Ad Viewability

1. Ad Placement
   

   • Place ads so they appear right when user lands on the website without having to scroll this will improve the chances of ad being seen.
   • Placing ads near high engagement content sections improves visibility and engagement
   • Make sure the design is responsive and adapts across any screen sizes and devices, maintaining ad visibility.
     

2. Mobile Optimization
   

   • Use mobile friendly ad sizes such as 320×100, 300×250, to get better ad visibility.
     
   • Make sure you have responsive ads on site so they are able to adjust to different screen sizes
     

3. Page Load Speed
   

   • Load ads with page content to prevent delays in ad rendering.
     
   • Delay loading ads until user has scrolled to the point are about to enter the viewport, reducing initial load times and improving user experience.
     

4. Design
   

   • Design page keeping user experience in mind, guiding users attention to ads naturally.
     
   • Make sure you have proper spacing in content this way content is readable and easy to make ads more noticeable and less intrusive.
     

5. Monitor Metrics
   

   • Track viewability rates and identify underperforming ad units.
     
   • Experiment with different ad placements, sizes, and formats to determine what results in the highest viewability.

Role of Technology in Boosting Viewability

Leveraging technology can make a significant in driving ad viewability

Programmatic Advertising:

Programmatic platforms allow for real-time bidding, for high-viewability inventory, ensuring that the ads are displayed in those spaces most likely to get seen.

Viewability Measurement Tools:

Use third-party tools to measure ad viewability accurately and provide recommendations for optimization.

Artificial Intelligence:

AI can analyze user behavior and predict the best placements for ads, enhancing viewability and engagement. 

Conclusion

Ad viewability is an important factor in increasing ad revenue. By understanding and implementing these ad strategies to improve viewability publishers can attract premium advertisers, improve user engagement, and increase their revenue. 

Regularly tracking key metrics, applying best practices, and leveraging technology are essential for improving ad viewability.

How MagicBid Helps You Earn More

If you’re not making the most of your ad space, you’re leaving money on the table.

MagicBid helps web, app, and CTV publishers maximize revenue with smarter ad placement and optimization tools.

• Web Monetization: Get better ad visibility, higher engagement, and more revenue from every impression.
• In-App Monetization: Connect with premium advertisers to boost fill rates and eCPMs effortlessly.
• CTV Monetization: Deliver high-quality, tailored ad experiences that keep viewers engaged and advertisers paying more.

With MagicBid’s advanced ad tech and expert support, you can turn your traffic into higher earnings without the guesswork.

Connect with us now to get a free ad revenue evaluation.

How Publishers Can Leverage AI for Smarter Ad Inventory Management

Publishers are struggling to find the right balance between maximizing their ad revenue and optimizing for user experience. 

Traditional systems of ad inventory management are not as effective and that’s where AI can help publishers manage their inventory better and profitably.

So What It Is: AI and Ad Inventory Management

The AI analyzes various data points in real time and converts them into actionable insights that can automate the process of buying, selling, and optimizations of ad spaces with the help of AI, publishers can make decisions on ad placements, pricing, and audience targeting. 

Benefits of AI for Publishers:

1. Optimized Ad Placements

By analyzing user behavior and content relevance, AI will help determine the best ad placement, this will help get the highest engagement rates without disrupting the user experience.

2. Dynamic Price Models

By analyzing real time data AI can adjust the ad price according to the demand, and audience demographic, to ensure you maximize your revenue potential 

3. Improved Audience Targeting

Segmentation of audiences with more precision with the help of AI allows ad experiences to be tailored to connect with consumers and ultimately increase conversion rates.

4. Fraud detection and prevention

AI is capable of identifying patterns that may yield potential fraud activities like bot traffic or click fraud, preventing a publisher from loss of revenues.

5. Automated Inventory Forecasting

With the help of AI publishers will now be able to predict what level of inventory they might need to avoid overstock or under-delivery.

Real World Case Studies:

• Hearst Newspapers found that AI enables personalization of ad formats that improve engagement and ad performance, thereby lifting mobile CPMs by 30 to 50%.
• RTB House uses deep learning algorithms that predict user behavior, allowing for precise customer segmentation. Compared to typical advertising campaigns, their AI method is said to show an increase of 41-50% in ad campaign effectiveness.

The New Face of Your Advertisement Inventory Strategy

1. Monitor Current Infrastructure:

Look at the existing ad management systems and how they can incorporate other possible AI solutions.

2. Choosing the Right AI Tools:

Select platforms that align with your needs, whether for audience segmentation, dynamic pricing, or fraud detection.

3. Investing in Data Analytics:

AI needs data to make decisions make sure you have all the systems set up for collecting as well as interpreting user data.

4. Continuous Monitoring and Optimization:

AI systems need regular updates to adapt to changing user behavior and market conditions.

Challenges to Consider

While there are many advantages of AI, some potential challenges publishers should know.

• Ensuring the privacy of data: When collecting or processing user data, be sure to follow the compliance and regulations.
• Integration challenges: Setting up AI with existing systems can be technically demanding and may require specialized expertise.

The Future of AI in Ad Inventory Management

With time AI in ad management will get more advanced.

Publishers can expect more automated and precise systems capable of understanding real-time changes in user behavior using AI not only to improve operational efficiency but also to help publishers stay competitive in a data-driven advertising ecosystem.

AI offers a powerful opportunity for publishers to optimize ad strategies, drive up revenue, and deliver highly personalized and tailored user experiences.

How MagicBid Helps You Earn More

If you’re not making the most of your ad space, you’re leaving money on the table.

MagicBid helps web, app, and CTV publishers maximize revenue with smarter ad placement and optimization tools.

• Web Monetization: Get better ad visibility, higher engagement, and more revenue from every impression.
• In-App Monetization: Connect with premium advertisers to boost fill rates and eCPMs effortlessly.
• CTV Monetization: Deliver high-quality, tailored ad experiences that keep viewers engaged and advertisers paying more.

With MagicBid’s advanced ad tech and expert support, you can turn your traffic into higher earnings without the guesswork.

Connect with us now to get a free ad revenue evaluation.