Google Ads Demand Gen Campaign Review Delays: What's the Issue? (2026)

Google Ads Demand Gen campaigns are currently facing a significant challenge: prolonged review delays. This issue is causing frustration among advertisers, as it hinders their ability to iterate quickly and respond to time-sensitive opportunities. The problem is particularly concerning because it is specific to Demand Gen campaigns, while other campaign types like Search and Performance Max are unaffected.

The delays are occurring across various accounts and industries, with no apparent policy violations or warnings. This lack of transparency adds to the advertisers' concerns. Matthew Skelton, a senior PPC specialist, has highlighted this issue, noting that Demand Gen campaigns are stuck in the "in review" status for extended periods. These delays can significantly impact the effectiveness of campaigns that rely on rapid optimization and testing.

Ginny Marvin, Google Ads Liaison, has acknowledged the problem and confirmed that some Demand Gen image ads are taking longer than expected to complete review. Google's teams are actively working on a solution, but no specific timeline has been provided. This situation is a known issue on Google's end, and advertisers are advised to be patient while the tech giant works on resolving the problem.

The impact of these delays is twofold. Firstly, they slow down the iteration process, which is crucial for Demand Gen campaigns that aim to test creatives and drive upper-funnel performance. Secondly, they disrupt pacing, which can reduce the effectiveness of campaigns that rely on real-time optimization. A week-long delay can significantly throw off the timing and performance of these campaigns.

This issue raises a deeper question about the efficiency and reliability of Google Ads' review process. It also highlights the importance of speed and responsiveness in digital marketing, especially in the context of Demand Gen campaigns. Advertisers are left with no choice but to adapt their strategies and manage their expectations while Google works on a solution.

In the meantime, advertisers should consider alternative strategies to mitigate the impact of these delays. This may include exploring other advertising channels or optimizing their campaigns to be more resilient to prolonged review times. The situation underscores the need for a comprehensive understanding of the review process and the potential risks associated with it.

The resolution of this issue is crucial for the smooth operation of Google Ads Demand Gen campaigns. Advertisers and Google alike must work together to find a solution that ensures a timely and efficient review process, ultimately benefiting both parties and the broader digital marketing ecosystem.

Google Ads Demand Gen Campaign Review Delays: What's the Issue? (2026)

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