Google Maps is updated with new functions for companies

Google thinks of two functions designed to help companies in difficulty because of Covid-19.

Google has been working to help companies affected by Covid-19 in recent months . The initiatives have been many and still features of this type continue to come out. In the past few days, many Reddit users have noticed square icons that signal the presence of nearby businesses. This news is not official for the moment and is available only for a handful of people.

Instead, there are two important functions that will soon arrive. They offer the possibility of activating a solidarity network between companies and customers. How? Activating a gift card or making a donation. Google is exclusively committed to making the features available but is not directly responsible for their management. It all starts by looking for a company profile online and opening its tab from Maps or other Google applications, such as Search. Here it will be possible to open a link to donate a sum for its restart or purchase a gift card to spend later in the shop, restaurant or other type of business.

Google: 2 functions for companies arriving

As announced by the Mountain View company, Many users will soon find new features on Maps and on the Search app. The service is aimed at gyms, restaurants, shops and all local businesses. These can activate two types of function: the first allows you to purchase a gift card, the second to make a donation to the company.

The ways to manage these two initiatives are decided by the companies and Google has no responsibility for transactions between the company and the customer. In a nutshell, Google simply deals with offering the service and giving it some visibility , but the way in which the customer can buy the gift card or make a donation is the responsibility of the company.

This novelty was released in some countries of the world a few weeks ago, but is preparing to be extended to 17 other countries too. So, soon looking for a shop on Search or Maps will get results, even those of companies that are asking for support.

Jen Fitzpatrick, vice president of Google Maps, expressed his satisfaction with the operation: “People around the world are trying to help. Global online research on 'how to help small businesses' reached the highest level ever recorded in March 2020, with + 700% since February. "

What are the two icons everyone is talking about?

In addition to the two functions, Google has also released promotional icons , which have appeared on Maps to different Reddit users sparking a general interest. They are square and appear on the screen where the map is displayed as if to remind that, in the vicinity, there is precisely an activity to visit.

The two elements are small and not very invasive but cannot be eliminated and are intended to intercept the attention of those who navigate on Maps . It is not known when they will be released, also because Google has not made the news official.