Local SEO News & Updates for March 2025

Google Tests AI-Powered 'Ask for Me' Feature for Local Business Calls

1 months ago

Google has launched an AI feature called "Ask for Me" that makes calls to local businesses to gather pricing and availability information. It is currently being tested through Search Labs, focusing on auto repair shops and nail salons. Users can access it by searching for services and providing details. The AI uses technology similar to Google Duplex. Businesses can opt out of calls, and human reviewers monitor results. The feature is available in the U.S. and may expand to other sectors

Google Expands AI-Powered Local Restaurant Search Experience

3 months ago

Local SEO

Google is expanding its AI-organized search results for local restaurant queries, allowing users to discover dining recommendations more effectively. The new experience categorizes results for specific queries and includes articles and videos to aid decision-making. This enhancement could significantly impact business traffic during the holiday season by changing how restaurants appear in search results and connecting them with potential customers.

AI marketing workflows made simple

Featured

Markifact is a no-code marketing automation platform that lets users create AI-driven workflows for automating marketing tasks. Users can trigger workflows, connect apps, and track performance through a visual interface. The platform offers pre-built templates, integrates with various marketing tools, and supports team collaboration.

Yelp unveils AI-powered Review Insights and enhanced features for business discovery

3 months ago

Local SEO

Yelp's end-of-year release introduces AI-powered Review Insights to analyze reviewer sentiment, enhancing business discovery with personalized content and updated business pages. Yelp Assistant improves connections with service pros through project editing and quote requests via Apple Maps. Advertisers benefit from AI-driven ad optimization and a redesigned inbox for lead management. Celebrating 20 years, Yelp reveals over 20 new features to enhance user experience.

Google Maps Now Shows Waze Incident Reports

3 months ago

Local SEO

Google Maps is rolling out a feature that shows Waze incident reports for users to confirm while navigating. This update, announced in late July and rolled out mid-September, includes a new reporting UI for Android, iOS, Android Auto, CarPlay, and Android Automotive. Reports from both Maps and Waze communities will be visible, starting with police alerts and expanding to more data types. This integration aims to enhance both apps.

Google Maps Updates New Features for Holiday Shopping, Planning, Driving, and Travel

4 months ago

Local SEO

Google Maps has introduced new features to help users during the holiday season. Users can search for last-minute gifts, get inspiration for activities, and check reviews with Gemini. Immersive View helps preview routes, while weather updates and EV charge planning ensure smooth travel. Trailer-friendly routes are available for certain vehicles. Users can report transit delays and find travel deals on Google Flights.

Google to Discontinue Local Services Ads App in January 2025

4 months ago

Google Ads Local SEO

Google will discontinue its Local Services Ads (LSA) mobile app on January 6, 2025, shifting management to a browser-based platform. Campaigns will remain operational and can be managed via web browser, desktop, mobile browser, or the ads.google.com/localservices portal. There is no reported impact on campaign performance, and all functionality will transition to the web platform seamlessly.

Google Maps Adds Gemini-Curated Inspiration, Enhanced Navigation, Immersive View Update

4 months ago

Local SEO

Google Maps introduces new features including Gemini-curated inspiration, enhanced navigation, and Immersive View updates. Gemini helps users get ideas and answers about places, while enhanced navigation shows lanes, crosswalks, and road signs clearly. Users can report weather disruptions and get detailed arrival guidance. Immersive View expands to 150 cities, offering detailed views of routes and places.

Google Adds Quick Edit and Delete Options for Business Profile Reviews

5 months ago

Local SEO Google Business Profile

Google has introduced a new feature to streamline the management of user reviews on Google Business Profile listings. Edit and delete buttons now appear next to reviews left by users. The edit button allows quick modification, and the delete button enables swift removal of the review. This provides a faster method for users to update or remove their own reviews, encouraging more frequent updates and more accurate business feedback.

Google Business Profile Introduces Drag-and-Drop Menu Management

5 months ago

Local SEO Google Business Profile

Google has introduced a drag-and-drop feature for Google Business Profile (GBP) users, enhancing menu management. This update allows businesses to reorganize menu items easily, improving organization and user experience. Benefits include time-saving, flexibility, and reduced errors. The feature may also indirectly benefit local SEO. Initial feedback is positive, and the update reflects Google's commitment to improving GBP.

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