Introduction
Google Business Profile (GBP), formerly known as Google My Business, continues to evolve, offering new features and tools to help local businesses enhance their online presence and connect more effectively with customers. The 2025 updates introduce several significant changes that local businesses should be aware of to stay competitive in the digital landscape.
List of New Google Business Profile Updates in 2025
1. AI-Powered Assistance for Business Listings
Google has integrated AI-driven tools into GBP, providing real-time suggestions to optimize business listings. These tools offer personalized recommendations for improving visibility, such as keyword enhancements, better descriptions, and even AI-generated responses to customer inquiries. Additionally, AI can automatically update business hours, services, and promotions to ensure accuracy and relevance.
2. Enhanced Review & Reputation Management Tools
Managing online reviews is crucial for maintaining a positive reputation. Google has strengthened its review management system by implementing advanced detection for fake reviews and providing businesses with streamlined processes to dispute and remove fraudulent feedback. These improvements help businesses maintain trust and credibility with their audience.
3. Integration with Local Service Ads (LSAs)
Service-based businesses can now run highly targeted Local Service Ads directly from their Google Business Profile. This integration allows businesses to appear at the top of search results for relevant local services, enhancing visibility and attracting more potential customers. Performance tracking tools are also available to monitor ad effectiveness.
4. “What’s Happening” Feature for Restaurants and Bars
Google has introduced a new section called “What’s Happening” for restaurant and bar search profiles. This feature enables businesses to showcase timely promotions, events, and specials—such as daily meal deals or live music nights—under a “This week” label in their Google Search information panel. Owners can manually update this section through Google Posts or link their social media accounts for automatic syncing.
5. WhatsApp Integration for Direct Communication
In an exciting development, Google has introduced a new feature for Google Business Profiles that allows businesses to add a WhatsApp contact. This integration facilitates direct communication with customers, providing a convenient channel for inquiries and support.
6. Mandatory Verification for Google Local Services Ads
Starting November 21, 2024, businesses are required to have a verified Google Business Profile to run Local Services Ads. This change aims to prevent fraud and ensure the accuracy of business information. The verification process involves adding or claiming a business address and verifying it through various methods, which can take up to seven business days.
7. AI-Powered Appointment Booking with “Ask for Me”
Google has introduced an AI tool called “Ask for Me,” which automates the process of calling businesses to book appointments. Initially available for nail salons and auto repair shops, this feature collects information about services, pricing, and availability, making bookings on behalf of the user. Businesses receive calls from the AI, which identifies itself as an automated system from Google. They can opt out of these calls through their Google Business Profile settings.
How To Use These Updates Smartly
Keep your profile updated (hours, photos, services).
Reply to reviews and messages regularly.
Try new features like WhatsApp or the “What’s Happening” section.
Get your business verified.
Run ads directly from your profile if you’re a service-based business.
Conclusion
These new updates from Google are all about making it easier for local businesses to grow online and connect with customers. If you manage your Google Business Profile well, it can bring in more calls, messages, and visits to your shop or office.
FAQ
1. How does Google’s AI calling work?
Answer – Google can now call your business (like a salon or garage) and book appointments on behalf of customers. You’ll hear a voice that says it’s a Google automated call. You can turn this feature off if you don’t want it.
2. Can I run ads directly from my Google profile?
Answer –Yes! If you provide local services (like a plumber, tutor, or electrician), you can set up and run ads from your profile itself.
3. How do I protect my business from fake reviews?
Answer – Google has improved its review system. You can now report fake reviews more easily, and Google will review and remove them if they are not genuine.