Google has announced that it will discontinue the chat feature in Google Business Profiles.
The shutdown process will begin on July 15th and functionality will be completed on July 31st.
The message, sent to businesses via email, acknowledged the potential difficulties of the decision and emphasized Google’s commitment to continuing to be a useful partner in business management.
Google’s email to businesses reads as follows:
“We’re sharing with you that we will be phasing out Google Chat in Google Business Profiles on July 31, 2024. We acknowledge that this may be difficult news — as we continue to improve our tools, we sometimes have to Not making tough decisions that could impact the businesses and partners we work with is important to us that Google remains a useful partner in managing your business, and we remain committed to making that happen. a mission.
Google will stop creating new conversations after July 15th, and chat will be completely discontinued on July 31st. More information about you, business description, photos, and anything else you share in your business profile.
Impact on business and customers
Starting July 15, customers will no longer be able to start new chat conversations with businesses through Google.
Customers who are currently in a chat conversation will receive a notification informing them that the chat feature is being retired.
However, customers can still use Google Search and Maps to find and contact businesses, and access information through website links, business descriptions, photos and other elements shared on the business profile.
Google decides to discontinue Business Chat
Google said the decision to turn off the chat feature was part of its ongoing efforts to simplify its products.
To help businesses transform, Google provides guidance on next steps:
- Chat history download: Businesses that want to keep past business profile chats can use Google Takeout to download chat transcripts of customer conversations.
- Alternative chat solutions: Google recommends businesses invite customers to use alternative chat solutions to continue seamless conversations.
background vs context
Google Business Profiles (formerly Google My Business) is a free tool that allows businesses to manage their online presence on Google, including search and maps. The chat feature allows customers to communicate directly with the company through their business profile.
While the chat feature will no longer be available, Google remains committed to providing a platform for companies to manage their online presence and connect with customers.
Featured Image: Vladimka Productions/Shutterstock
