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Google Maps Unveils New Local Business Features

Posted by samzenpus on from the google-google-google dept.

dhinckley writes "Google Maps has added some new features including pictures of the front of the locations you're searching for. Additionally, Local Businesses can enter custom information about their companies including pictures, websites, what type of payment they accept, and even offer coupons through Google Maps."

4 of 82 comments (clear)

  1. where by mastershake_phd · · Score: 2, Interesting

    Where are they getting these pictures of the front of locations? Is it from the Canadian company going around taking pictures of houses? I wonder how much I can make driving around taking pictures of my neighbors houses.

    --
    Libertarian Leaning Political Discussion Forum.
  2. Yellow pages network effect by Colin+Smith · · Score: 2, Interesting

    People use the Yellow pages because that's where all the businesses are, the businesses use the Yellow pages because that's where all the people look.

    To make it worthwhile for businesses, it'd have to be free.

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    Deleted
  3. Does Yahoo have this? by Ropati · · Score: 4, Interesting

    As a business owner I have been upset with Google Maps because their maps didn't correctly position my establishment. With this new feature, I immediately fixed their map location, added 10 pictures, an intro blurb and several other pieces of metadata. This can only improve my business's visibility.

    The end result should be a very accurate database => Google's value rises. This database entry is very happy. All in all a win-win situation.

    I wonder how I fix my stuff on Yahoo and any other search engine.

    --
    machinator omnis sine licentia
  4. I just did it. Freaky. by teamhasnoi · · Score: 4, Interesting

    Pretty cool, all your changes are made in near real-time. I updated a current listing, and there's options to have them mail you a postcard, or make a call to that business.

    I chose the call, and then picked, 'Call Now'. (As opposed to 5 min from now).

    No sooner did I click it than the phone rang. I picked it up, and a female auto-voice had me punch in a 4 digit code from my screen.

    It then told me they're updating every 4 weeks, and to expect it to take that long for my changes to show.

    All in all, neato. Though the instant phone call tripped the tin-foil hat wearer in me.

    "Mrs. Johnson, we've traced the call TO YOUR CHILD'S BEDROOM!!1!one!!"