Google+ takes over Google Places for local search
by Ben Romberg | 31.05.2012
Part of Google+’s recent changes we discussed last week, Google+ Business Pages have integrated Google Places. The change has meant that many pages that were Google Places (integrated with Google’s natural search) have been changed to Google+ Business pages. The 80 million Google Place pages worldwide have been automatically converted into 80 million Google+ Local pages, according to Google’s Marissa Mayer. It’s a dramatic change, though it will undoubtedly disorient some users and business owners.
Google have provided a quick breakdown of what has changed below:
- The substitution of the new Google+ Local pages (as mentioned) for Google Places pages
- The appearance of a “Local” tab within Google+
- The integration and free availability of Zagat reviews (its entire archive across categories)
- The integration of Google+ Local pages across Google properties (search, Maps, mobile)
- Integration of a circles filter to find reviews/recommendations from friends/family/colleagues
Find out more at Google Places: http://www.google.com/places/