Google Maps has just become yet another messaging app

Google Maps has seen a slew of updates since the company’s I/O 2018. This time it is adding a business messaging feature called Google My Business for both Android and iOS users.

The feature was launched last year on Business Profiles visible in Maps and Google Search. It allowed businesses to chat directly with the customers who find them on Google Search. Registered businesses received and replied to customer queries via SMS or through a dedicated Google Allo app.

That “Message” button is now coming to Google Maps, for customers, to connect with businesses within the Google Maps app. Businesses enrolled with Google will sport a new “Message” button in their listing, alongside the usual call shortcut. Prior to this new update, Google Maps introduced a “Follow” button to track businesses and stay informed about their offerings and other news.

“Now you’ll see your messages with the businesses you connect with via Business Profiles within the Google Maps app, where you’re already looking for things to do and places to go or shop,” Google explains in a company blog post. “You’ll find these messages in the side menu of both Google Maps for Android and iOS.”

On the flip side, Google My Business software will offer new tools for viewing customer info - including followers, reviews and messages — as well as a way to quickly create content to publish to their business profile on Google. The “Customers” tab gathers businesses’ customers including potential customers – those who chose to “follow”, track their reviews and respond to their messages.