Local Search News

As the holiday season approaches, Google has rolled out a series of new Maps features designed to help consumers navigate busy schedules, plan ahead, and make more informed decisions. While these updates are primarily AI-driven and not directly manageable within Google Business Profile (GBP), they reinforce the importance of accurate business information, strong review content, and seamless digital experiences. Below is a breakdown of what’s new and what it means for multi-location brands. “Know Before You Go”: New AI-Curated Tips in Google Maps Google Maps is introducing a new “Know Before You Go” section for businesses such as restaurants, hotels, event venues, and other popular destinations. This feature gathers helpful insights from across the web to give consumers a clearer sense of what to expect before they arrive. Powered by Gemini, Maps now surfaces insider-style tips pulled from: Customer reviews Business information Publicly available web content These tips might include: Best ways to book a reservation Parking guidance Secret or lesser-known menu items Useful arrival tips Users can tap each insight to explore more details. This enhancement is currently rolling out in the U.S. on Android and iOS. https://www.dacgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Google_MKT_Moment_Know_Before_you_go-Vertical_White_disclaimer_1_PE4XQNz.mp4 What this means for businesses While brands cannot manually edit or control these AI-generated insights, they can influence them by: Keeping GBP listings fully updated Ensuring website content is accurate and comprehensive Encouraging detailed, high-quality customer reviews The richer your review ecosystem, the more helpful and accurate these AI tips will be. AI-Powered EV Charger Availability Predictions For EV drivers, one of the biggest travel frustrations is arriving at a charging station only to find all chargers in use. To help solve this, Google Maps will now predict charger availability upon arrival. This new feature builds on real-time charging information by analyzing: Historical usage patterns Current network data Maps will now display an “On arrival” field showing how many ports are likely to be available when the driver reaches the station. This update begins rolling out next week on Android Auto and cars with Google built-in, covering hundreds of thousands of charging stations worldwide. https://www.dacgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/predicted-availability-deep-crop_2.mp4 What this means for EV charging providers This development highlights the need for accurate, real-time data. EV charging brands should: Maintain up-to-date Google Business Profiles Partner with data providers like Eco-Movement to ensure precise charger availability information Better data = better routing decisions for drivers, and ultimately, more satisfied customers. Review Nicknames & Profile Photos: More Privacy Options for Reviewers Google is also enhancing privacy for users contributing to the review ecosystem. Reviewers can now choose: A nickname A custom profile picture This allows them to leave feedback without displaying their full name from their Google Profile. What this means for brands Expect to see these nicknames appear in your GBP and review management platforms. If you use automated responses that reference reviewer names, you may start seeing a wider variety of display names. Why These Updates Matter Across all three launches, one theme is clear: Google is continuing to rely heavily on AI and user-generated content to shape the Maps experience. For multi-location brands, the fundamentals matter more than ever: Accurate, complete GBP listings Strong review volume and quality Reliable real-time data for EV networks Updated website content that reinforces brand authority These elements help Google’s AI deliver the right insights to consumers at the right moment and ensure your locations stay competitive during the busiest season of the year.