Liam Design

Google Places just got a whole lot more interesting. Previously, companies could put up a listing for free with a few photos, info, opening hours and maybe a YouTube video. But now, businesses which are already popular on Google Maps are being supplied by Google with window decals to display on their shop front. These decals include a QR code, which when scanned by a passer-by, displays the Google Places reviews of that particular business. This allows people to get a better idea of what that business is all about and what others think of it. While viewing the reviews, you can then ‘star’ that listing as interesting and this is stored under your Google profile.

This has transformed Google Places into a more interactive, engaging, and let’s face it, a lot more useful part of Google’s suite. This fantastic new feature seems to be only available in the US so far, but let’s hope that all going well, it will be rolled out here in Ireland and Europe too.

More information on Google’s official blog.