Here’s how Google Maps 'Messages' just made it easy to contact businesses

Search giant Google appears to be adding quite a few interesting features to Maps. After adding an auto rickshaw fare estimation feature for Delhiites, Google Maps for Android has received a new instant messaging feature to connect with businesses. For now, this feature seems to be limited to Android users. But in the coming days, we can expect Google to broaden this feature's reach to more users including iOS.

A new tab called ‘Messages’ has now appeared inside Google Maps for Android. Upon tapping the option, it shows a blank page with a message “No messages yet. Contact business by tapping the ‘Message’ button on their Google page.” This feature is more likely to connect users with businesses and vice versa.

Also Read | Google Maps will help ensure autowallahs don’t overcharge you now

Google is soon expected to add a new ‘Message’ button on business pages. Currently, business pages on Google provide users with directions, phone number, photos and more. This feature could be helpful in case users need more information about the businesses listed on Google Maps. How Google implements this feature remains to be seen, though.

Also Read | How to share Google Maps live location for bus and train journeys

In order to keep track of all the conversations, users need to tap the hamburger menu at the top left corner and select the option called ‘Messages.’ If you haven’t received the feature yet, make sure that you have the latest version of Google Maps installed on your smartphone.

It is not clear at this moment whether this feature has been rolled out to all Android users. But sooner or later, all users are bound to receive the update.