Google has recently updated its Search Generative Experience (SGE) to utilize data from Google Business Profile listings. This enhancement allows the AI-powered search tool to generate snapshot answers using reviews, photos, and other details from Google Business Profile listings that people have submitted for over 200 million real-world locations. The update began rolling out a few weeks ago and is now available for users.
Users of SGE can witness firsthand how Google extracts reviews and photo data from Google Business Profiles and presents them in the AI-generated snapshot answers. For instance, if a user queries the search engine about a specific company, the results will display photos directly from that company’s Google Business Profile listing.
In a statement, Google explained the new capabilities of SGE, particularly for local and travel searches. The AI-powered snapshot provides comprehensive information from across the web and Google Business Profile details. For example, if a user has a detailed question about a restaurant or a specific landmark, the AI snapshot will consolidate the most relevant information, including reviews and photos from Google Business Profile listings, providing useful insights and saving users’ planning time.
This advancement underscores the increasing significance of maintaining complete, high-quality photos on Google Business Profile listings. Since SGE can utilize these details, businesses must ensure their Google Business Profile listings effectively represent their organizations. Businesses should also strive to have good reviews as SGE can use them in generating snapshot answers.
Google SGE continues to evolve, diversifying its source materials, and broadening the scope of its offerings. The shift from predominantly relying on publisher websites to incorporating data from brand websites, including social media platforms and Google Business Profile listings, offers users a more comprehensive spectrum of information. However, as the search giant strives to make search experiences more encompassing, engaging, and faster, the challenge remains to maintain a balance between delivering accurate results and a user-friendly experience.