Google is readjusting its application portfolio, both to add AI elements, Gemini even sneaking into Google Messages, and to remove more or less used services. For example, Google’s VPN will soon disappear. The same will apply to Google Maps chat, this direct means of communicating with businesses.
What started as a free map app has become a great app in its own right: Google Maps is one of the keys to any Android. To know where we are, know how to get anywhere, know public transport schedules, it’s perfect for discovering new restaurants to visit and we can even communicate directly with businesses. This function was made easier with the chat integrated into Google Maps, in 2019. It only lasted five years.
Messaging disappears from Google Maps
Google has something against instant messaging, it has no way of maintaining a firm and long-term strategy in this area of communication. Canceled services, platforms as large as Hangouts which ended up in the Google graveyard, certain RCS messages little known to the general public… And now it ends with Maps messaging.
Maps app chats allow communicate directly with businesses in order to resolve problems, doubts and even reserve a place. And we have to say goodbye: as discovered in Search Engine Land, and already mentioned in Google Help, Google Maps chat is disappearing for good on July 31.
Google’s decision particularly affects companies that used the messaging platform, since they will now lose a fast, reliable and free way to support your potential customers. The days of company profile messaging are numbered, here is the timeline of its passing:
- July 15, 2024. Customers will not have access to business chat via Google Maps. Conversations that are already open will not be deleted.
- July 31, 2024. Google Maps chat will be completely unavailable.
- August 30, 2024. Logs of all chats will no longer be available to businesses.
If you have a business, take the opportunity to download all Google Takeout chats before they are no longer available on August 30. And even if the chat disappears from the company profile, the rest of the coordinates are not: Phone numbers and email addresses will continue to appear.
Cover image | Ivan Linares
More information | Google
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