Google to end chat functionality for businesses on Maps and Search

Google is bidding farewell to its Business Messages feature that allows customers to chat directly with businesses through their profiles on Google Maps and Search.

Starting July 15th, users won't be able to initiate new chats with businesses. Existing conversations will be notified by the end of the month that the feature will be permanently shut down. After that date, businesses will no longer receive messages through their Google Business profile.

While the ability to chat directly with businesses disappears, Google assures users they can still find and contact them through other methods like phone calls and emails. Website links, business descriptions, photos, and any other information included in a Business Profile will remain accessible on Search and Maps.

While Google hasn't pinpointed a specific reason for this change, the company acknowledges in its email to businesses that "continually improving our tools...may impact the businesses and partners we work with." This suggests Google may be shifting its focus to developing other communication features.

This comes just months after Google shut down websites created through Google Business Profiles, prompting business owners to redirect their websites to their corresponding Business Profiles.

While instant chat is fading away, it is a good idea to double-check that your contact information is up-to-date and encourage customers to reach out through alternative channels.