Timing update: First click, linear, time decay, and position-based attribution models are going away
Granular analysis and first look
Google is phasing out first click, linear, time decay, and position-based attribution models. Starting mid-July, these models will no longer be selectable for new conversions in Google Ads, and existing conversions will be unable to switch to these models. Complete removal will occur in September.
Why this matters?
- Simplified Attribution: Phasing out these models streamlines the attribution options, focusing on more effective models like data-driven attribution.
- Transition Planning: Advertisers need to prepare for the transition by reviewing and adjusting their attribution strategies.
- Performance Measurement: Ensuring the use of relevant attribution models helps maintain accurate performance measurement and optimization.
Next Steps/Action Items
- Review Attribution Models: Assess current conversions using phased-out models and plan a transition to available models.
- Switch Models: Move to alternative attribution models, such as data-driven attribution, before the September deadline.
- Monitor Impact: Track performance metrics to ensure a smooth transition and adjust campaigns as necessary.
Helpful links for this Google update
Learn more about past Google updates
- Apr 2026 - April 2026 Google Ads Update – YouTube Creator Partnerships Expand
- Apr 2026 - April 2026 Google Ads Update – Product Feeds Power AI Shopping
- Mar 2026 - March 2026 Google Ads Update – VRC Non-Skip Ads Expand CTV Reach
- Feb 2026 - February 2026 Google Ads Update – AI Search and Agentic Commerce
- Jan 2026 - January 2026 Google Ads Update – Direct Offers Arrive in AI Mode Shopping
- Dec 2025 - December 2025 – Google Ads Highlights of 2025
- Nov 2025 - November 2025 – Strengthen media measurement and ROI clarity with incrementality testing improvements
- Nov 2025 - November 2025 New Brand Suitability Controls For YouTube Feed & Discover
- Nov 2025 - November 2025 Google Ads Update – Waze Integration & Channel Reporting for PMax
- Oct 2025 - October 2025 – Call-Only Ads Are Going Away: Transition to Call Assets Now
- Sep 2025 - September 2025 – New Features to Connect Your Web and App Advertising in Google Ads
- Aug 2025 - August 2025 Google Ads Update – Unlock more visibility and control in Performance Max
- Jun 2025 - June 2025 Google Ads Update – New Optimization for YouTube Follow-On Views in Demand Gen
- May 2025 - May 2025 Google Ads Update – Google Marketing Live 2025: AI Takes the Lead in Performance Marketing
- May 2025 - May 2025 Google Ads Update – Strengthen First-Party Data with Google Tag Gateway
- Apr 2025 - April 2025 Google Ads Update – Checkout on Merchant Now Live in Demand Gen Campaigns
- Apr 2025 - April 2025 Google Ads Update – Improving Search Ads Relevance Lower Down the Page
- Apr 2025 - April 2025 Google Ads Update – Performance Max Gets New Goals, Image Controls & Negative Keyword Limits
- Feb 2025 - February 2025 Google Ads Update – Boosting Search Ad Performance with AI-Driven Asset Flexibility
- Feb 2025 - February 2025 Google Ads Update – Urgent: Offline Conversion Import (OCI) Action Needed for Apps
- Jan 2025 - January 2025 Google Ads Update – Google Brings Back Tag Assistant: What It Means for Digital Marketers
- Oct 2024 - October 2024 Google Ads Update – New Performance Max features
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