Google is rolling out a new feature for its Maps app on Android and iOS that will enable the users to send a message to a business listed on the Map and enquire things before you go and buy them physically in the store.
This feature was rolled out in a few countries last year and now it’s being rolled out globally. Sending messages will allow you to ask questions from the business without having to make a phone call or visit the store.
You’ll now be able to see the messages you send to a business in the Google Maps app itself. Open the side menu, and you’ll find ‘Messages’ on both Google Maps for iOS and Android.
But this feature doesn’t work by default. A local business must have messages enabled in order for you to send a message to them. The feature is being rolled out in new countries worldwide.
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“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,” Aditya Tendulkar, Product Manager at Google, wrote.
“With these messages in Maps, you’ll never have to worry about accidentally sending “I love you, Mom” to that shoe store you’ve been sending messages to.”
If you wish to know whether or not a business has messages enabled, look for the ‘message’ button on Business profiles on Google Maps and Search.
Businesses looking to interact with customers via this feature will need to install Google My Business app from Google Play or the App Store and sign up to get the ball rolling.
Last month Google updated the Maps app making it easier for users to share their ETA with friends and families as well as find charging stations for their electronic vehicles (EV).
Following the updates, users were able to share live location — a feature similar to the one available on WhatsApp — directly via Google Maps app. Read more about how to share a live location as well as find an EV charging station here.
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