Google is Testing New Local Search Features Like Discover More Places and Explore Places Nearby

In its continued effort to enhance local search, Google is testing several new features to improve how users discover nearby places and businesses. The goal is to make search more intuitive, allowing users to find and explore locations around them easily. These updates could be game-changers for local businesses and users alike, providing a richer and more dynamic local search experience. Let’s dive into these exciting new features, including “Discover More Places” and “Explore Places Nearby,” and see how they could change local search.

Key New Google Local Search Features

1. Discover More Places

The “Discover More Places” feature is designed to give users a carousel of local options right alongside the familiar Local Pack in search results. This feature enhances visibility by showcasing various categories of nearby places like restaurants, cafes, stores, and attractions. Each option in the carousel links to Google’s Local Finder, which presents a detailed list and interactive map of options within that category. This allows users to:

• Discover a wider variety of businesses and places in specific categories.
• Quickly access business details, reviews, hours of operation, and directions.
• Find and compare options before making a choice, all within one search interface.

For businesses, “Discover More Places” offers valuable exposure, as it could place them directly in front of users who may otherwise not have discovered them.

2. Explore Places Nearby

Google’s “Explore Places Nearby” feature is another promising addition, targeted toward users looking to find relevant local businesses and attractions close to their current location. This feature operates through a search box or module, helping users receive immediate recommendations based on real-time data. Imagine being in a new city and wanting to find a coffee shop or a local attraction—this feature aims to provide quick, relevant suggestions without much scrolling or filtering.

With “Explore Places Nearby,” Google continues to focus on personalization by considering a user’s location and showing options accordingly. This is especially helpful for tourists, people on business trips, and even locals looking to rediscover their city.

Enhancing User Engagement with Local Search Features

Google’s new local search tools aren’t just about adding functionality; they’re also about improving user experience. Here’s how these features boost engagement:

• Personalized Recommendations: Tailoring suggestions based on a user’s location and preferences helps deliver more relevant results.
• Visual and Interactive Elements: The carousel and other visual tools make searches more engaging and user-friendly.
• Enhanced Exploration Options: By offering various entry points to discover local businesses, Google allows users to explore their surroundings in a more flexible way.

These changes are a natural fit for Google’s ongoing emphasis on user-centered design, making search both functional and enjoyable.

Testing Phase and Global Rollout Potential

Currently, these features are in the testing phase with select users. Google’s phased approach allows them to gather real-time feedback, which could shape further development before a broader release. The goal is to refine these tools and make any necessary adjustments based on user experience data. Once testing is complete, we could see a global rollout, potentially accompanied by new additions or modifications to these features based on early feedback.

Impact on Local Businesses

For businesses, these tools open up new opportunities for visibility in local search results. Key advantages include:

• Higher Discovery Rates: By being featured in the “Discover More Places” carousel, businesses can attract more local traffic, especially if they’re in a competitive area.
• Increased Foot Traffic: With “Explore Places Nearby,” businesses can appear in front of people who are actively looking for nearby options.
• Enhanced Online Engagement: Improved visibility could lead to higher engagement on business profiles, such as more website visits, directions requests, and phone calls.

Businesses can also benefit by keeping their Google My Business profiles updated, as complete and accurate information will likely help them rank better within these new features.

In Summary

Google’s new local search tools, “Discover More Places” and “Explore Places Nearby,” bring exciting changes to the way users engage with local businesses on the platform. By refining local search, Google aims to make it easier for users to find what they need quickly and efficiently. As these features roll out more broadly, businesses have a fantastic opportunity to increase their visibility and attract new customers.

For businesses aiming to capitalize on these changes,  Digilogy can provide tailored strategies to boost online visibility and optimize local SEO, ensuring that your business stands out in these new features. Contact Digilogy today to learn how we can help you maximize your local search potential.