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Google Business Profile (GBP) is a crucial tool for businesses aiming to enhance their online presence, improve local SEO rankings, and engage with customers more effectively. By regularly updating GBP with new features, Google ensures businesses can leverage cutting-edge tools to attract and retain customers. The latest feature updates—Google Reviews QR Code and WhatsApp Integration—are designed to streamline customer interaction and enhance business visibility.
This blog will explore these new features in detail and provide insights into how businesses can maximize their potential for better customer engagement and interaction.
Google Reviews QR Code Feature (Released on March 20, 2025)
Overview of the Feature
Google continues to enhance its suite of tools for businesses by introducing the Google Reviews QR Code feature. This new functionality simplifies and accelerates the review collection process, making it easier for businesses to gather customer feedback. Since online reviews play a crucial role in shaping consumer decisions and influencing search rankings, this feature is a game-changer for companies looking to improve their reputation and visibility.
With the Google Reviews QR Code, businesses can generate a unique QR code that directly links to their review page, allowing customers to leave feedback effortlessly. This streamlined approach reduces friction in the review process, encouraging more customers to participate. According to initial reports, businesses using QR codes for reviews have seen up to a 10x increase in customer feedback, significantly boosting their online credibility and trustworthiness.
How the QR Code Feature Works
Google’s QR code functionality is designed to enhance user convenience by eliminating unnecessary steps in the review process. Here’s how it works:
- Businesses can generate a custom QR code through their Google Business Profile dashboard.
- Customers simply scan the QR code with their smartphone camera, which immediately redirects them to the review submission page.
- This removes the need for customers to manually search for a business on Google, reducing hassle and increasing engagement.
- The QR code can be integrated into various marketing materials, such as business cards, receipts, store displays, packaging, and even digital platforms like websites and social media.
This feature provides a seamless and efficient way for businesses to encourage reviews, which in turn enhances their search engine ranking, customer trust, and overall business reputation.
Key Benefits of Google Reviews QR Code
The introduction of QR codes for Google reviews offers numerous advantages for businesses of all sizes and industries. Below are some key benefits:
1. Simplifies the Review Process
- Customers can instantly scan the QR code and leave a review within seconds, eliminating any unnecessary steps.
- By removing friction in the feedback process, businesses can encourage more participation from satisfied customers.
- Customers no longer need to search manually for the business on Google, making the review process hassle-free.
2. Boosts Review Collection
- Businesses can increase the number of customer reviews by making it easier and more accessible for users to share their experiences.
- A higher volume of reviews improves local SEO rankings, helping businesses appear higher in search results.
- More reviews enhance credibility and trust, positively influencing potential customers’ purchasing decisions.
- Positive customer reviews act as social proof, encouraging new customers to choose your business over competitors.
3. Versatile Usage Across Industries
QR codes for Google reviews can be effectively utilized across different industries, including:
- Restaurants & Cafés: Display QR codes on menus, table tents, and receipts to encourage customers to leave reviews after their dining experience.
- Retail Stores: Place QR codes near checkout counters or print them on shopping bags and receipts for easy access.
- Salons & Spas: Include QR codes on appointment cards, invoices, or mirrors to prompt satisfied clients to leave feedback.
- Healthcare & Clinics: Print QR codes on patient discharge summaries, brochures, or waiting room posters for effortless review submission.
- Service-Based Businesses: Add QR codes to invoices, business cards, and follow-up emails, making it convenient for customers to share their experiences.
4. Easy to Generate and Customize
- Google allows businesses to generate QR codes directly from their Business Profile dashboard with just a few clicks.
- The QR code can be customized using tools like Canva to include branding elements, such as logos and color schemes.
- Businesses can incorporate a call-to-action (CTA) such as “Scan to Leave a Review!” to encourage user interaction.
5. Enhances Customer Engagement
- Encouraging customers to leave reviews through QR codes fosters a stronger business-customer relationship.
- The feature pairs well with Google Business Profile’s messaging tool, allowing businesses to promptly respond to reviews and inquiries.
- By making reviews more accessible, businesses can build a loyal customer base and improve their online reputation.
Steps to Generate a Google Reviews QR Code
Creating a Google Reviews QR Code is a simple process that requires just a few steps:
- Go to Google Business Profile Dashboard: Log in to your Google Business Profile account.
- Select the Relevant Business Profile: Choose the business for which you want to generate a QR code.
- Click on “Ask for Review”: Navigate to the reviews section and click on the “Ask for Review” option.
- Save the QR Code Image to Your Device: Google will generate a unique QR code that you can download.
- Incorporate the QR Code into Marketing Materials: Add the QR code to receipts, packaging, social media posts, emails, and business premises to encourage customer reviews.
By following these simple steps, businesses can maximize their review collection efforts and improve customer engagement.
Best Practices for Using QR Codes
To ensure the Google Reviews QR Code is used effectively, businesses should implement the following best practices:
1. Strategic Placement
- Position the QR code in high-traffic areas, such as checkout counters, waiting areas, and entrances.
- Place QR codes on printed materials like business cards, receipts, brochures, and product packaging.
- If your business has a digital presence, include the QR code on your website, social media posts, and email signatures.
- Restaurants and cafés should consider adding QR codes to tables or digital menus, allowing diners to leave reviews easily.
2. Design Optimization
- Ensure the QR code is clear and scannable, using high-contrast colors and an appropriate size.
- Add a compelling call-to-action (CTA) such as “Scan to Leave a Review!” to encourage engagement.
- Customize QR codes with branding elements, such as logos or colors, to make them more visually appealing.
3. Test Before Printing
- Before mass printing, test the QR code on multiple devices to ensure it directs users to the correct review page.
- Avoid over-stylizing the QR code, as excessive design alterations can make it difficult to scan.
- Consider using a shortened URL within the QR code to improve loading speed and reliability.
4. Monitor Results
- Use Google Business Profile Insights to track how many reviews are being generated through the QR code.
- Analyze customer engagement and make adjustments if needed, such as repositioning the QR code or modifying the call-to-action.
- Regularly update and promote the QR code to ensure consistent review collection over time.
Here Is An Example Of How We Did It At ThatWare
Step 1: Go to Google Business Profile Dashboard
Step 2: Select the Business profile according to your requirement
Step 3: Click on “Ask for Review”
Step 4: Save the QR code Image to your local directory
Now that you have the QR code, incorporate the image wherever possible into reviews to attract the attention of visitors or customers.
WhatsApp Integration on Google Business Profile
Overview of the Feature
Google Business Profile (GBP) has introduced a new feature allowing businesses to integrate WhatsApp and SMS messaging into their profiles. This update enhances communication between businesses and customers, enabling instant messaging through the world’s most popular chat platform. With billions of WhatsApp users worldwide, this feature significantly improves accessibility, customer interaction, and lead generation.
Key Highlights of the Feature:
- Businesses can now add WhatsApp as a contact method on their Google Business Profile.
- Customers can reach out via their preferred messaging platform, reducing friction in communication.
- The integration aims to enhance customer engagement, response rates, and conversion opportunities.
- It is particularly beneficial for businesses that rely on direct customer interactions, such as retail stores, service providers, and local businesses.
Key Benefits of WhatsApp and SMS Integration
1. Direct Customer Engagement
- WhatsApp integration allows businesses to connect with customers in real time, eliminating delays associated with email responses.
- Customers can initiate conversations instantly without navigating through multiple pages or waiting for email replies.
- It provides a more personalized experience, fostering stronger customer relationships and increasing trust.
- Businesses can share product details, service updates, and promotions directly with customers in a familiar chat format.
2. Higher Open Rates
- WhatsApp and SMS boast an impressive open rate of 98%, significantly higher than email marketing, where open rates typically range between 15-25%.
- Most customers check their WhatsApp messages frequently, ensuring businesses get faster and more effective responses.
- Compared to emails, where messages might be lost in spam folders, WhatsApp ensures direct and visible communication.
3. Appealing to Younger Audiences
- Millennials and Gen Z prefer messaging over phone calls, making WhatsApp integration ideal for businesses targeting younger demographics.
- WhatsApp offers a user-friendly, instant, and convenient means of communication that aligns with the digital habits of modern consumers.
- Businesses can use WhatsApp to share multimedia content, including product images, catalogs, and promotional videos, to engage audiences more effectively.
4. Multi-Profile Compatibility
- The WhatsApp integration feature supports businesses with multiple locations, ensuring that customers can reach the appropriate branch easily.
- Centralized messaging helps businesses manage inquiries more efficiently, especially for franchises and multi-location service providers.
- Business owners can set up different WhatsApp numbers for various locations while maintaining uniform brand communication.
Current Limitations of the Feature
Despite its advantages, the WhatsApp integration on Google Business Profile has some limitations that businesses should consider before implementing it.
1. Mobile-Only Access
- Currently, the chat feature is available only on mobile searches.
- It does not yet appear on Google Maps or desktop searches, limiting accessibility for desktop users.
- This could be a drawback for businesses that rely on desktop interactions, such as B2B service providers and corporate clients.
2. No Click Tracking
- Google does not provide built-in analytics for tracking WhatsApp interactions within the GBP dashboard.
- Unlike email marketing or website analytics, businesses cannot track message volume, response rates, or customer engagement through WhatsApp.
- To assess the effectiveness of the feature, businesses must manually monitor incoming messages and customer inquiries.
3. Potential Overload of Messages
- If not managed properly, businesses may receive an overwhelming number of inquiries, making it difficult to respond promptly.
- Customers expect instant responses on messaging platforms, requiring dedicated resources for managing customer interactions efficiently.
- Businesses may need to invest in chatbots or customer support teams to handle high message volumes effectively.
Steps to Integrate WhatsApp with Google Business Profile
Businesses can integrate WhatsApp into their Google Business Profile by following these simple steps:
1. Open Google Business Profile Dashboard
- Log into your Google Business Profile account at Google My Business.
2. Select the Relevant Business Profile
- If you manage multiple business locations, choose the specific profile where you want to add WhatsApp integration.
3. Click on “Edit Profile”
- Navigate to the profile settings where you can update contact information.
4. Navigate to the “Contact” Section and Click on “Add Chat”
- Under the contact details, locate the option to add a chat method.
5. Select WhatsApp as the Preferred Messaging Platform
- Google provides an option to choose between SMS and WhatsApp.
- Select WhatsApp and proceed to enter the required details.
6. Provide the WhatsApp Link Connected to the Business Phone Number
- Businesses need to provide a WhatsApp link associated with their official business phone number.
7. Click Save to Activate the Feature
- Once the details are entered, save the settings to activate WhatsApp messaging on the Google Business Profile.
How to Generate a WhatsApp Link
If you don’t already have a WhatsApp link for your business, you can create one using the following format:
https://wa.me/(PhoneNumberWithCountryCode)
Example:
For an Indian business with the phone number 9876543210, the WhatsApp link would be:
https://wa.me/919876543210
Businesses can then use this link across various marketing channels, including their website, social media, and promotional materials.
Best Practices for WhatsApp Integration
To maximize the benefits of WhatsApp integration on Google Business Profile, businesses should follow these best practices:
1. Enable Auto-Replies
- Businesses can set up predefined responses for common inquiries.
- This helps manage customer expectations and ensures immediate engagement even outside business hours.
- Use tools like WhatsApp Business API or chatbots to automate responses efficiently.
2. Train Support Teams
- Staff should be trained to handle customer inquiries promptly and professionally.
- Ensure that employees are knowledgeable about products, services, and customer support protocols.
- Quick responses improve customer satisfaction and build trust.
3. Promote Your WhatsApp Link
- Add the WhatsApp contact link to various marketing materials, including:
- Business website
- Social media profiles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.)
- Email signatures
- Printed brochures and store signage
- Digital ads
- This increases visibility and encourages customers to reach out via WhatsApp.
4. Monitor Message Volume
- Regularly check and respond to customer messages to maintain high engagement.
- Avoid message backlogs by assigning dedicated team members for customer interactions.
- Implement a priority-based response system for handling urgent queries efficiently.
5. Ensure Compliance with WhatsApp Policies
- Follow WhatsApp’s business policies to avoid account restrictions or bans.
- Avoid excessive promotional messaging, as WhatsApp has strict guidelines on spamming.
- Provide opt-out options for customers who prefer not to receive WhatsApp messages.
Here Is An Example Of How We Did It At ThatWare
Step 1: Go to Google Business Profile Dashboard
Step 2: Select any Business Profile
Step 3: Click on “Edit Profile”
Step 4: Goto to “Contact” section and click on “Add Chat” button
Step 5: Select “WhatsApp”
Step 6: Provide a WhatsApp link connected with the phone number, and click on save
If you don’t have WhatsApp link then you can create the links as following format:
https://wa.me/(Phone number with country code )
And it’s done!
It will appear on the GBP on mobile devices like the follows:
Comparison: Google Reviews QR Code vs. WhatsApp Integration
| Feature | Google Reviews QR Code | WhatsApp Integration |
| Purpose | Increase customer reviews | Improve customer communication |
| Ease of Use | Simple scan and review | Instant messaging via WhatsApp |
| Business Impact | Boosts online reputation and SEO | Enhances customer service and accessibility |
| Best for | Retail, restaurants, service-based businesses | E-commerce, consulting, local businesses |
| Availability | Desktop and mobile | Mobile-only |
| Tracking Options | No direct tracking | No built-in tracking for clicks |
Conclusion
Google’s latest updates to Google Business Profiles (GBP) introduce powerful tools for businesses to enhance engagement, improve visibility, and streamline customer interactions. The Google Reviews QR Code feature makes it easier for customers to leave feedback, leading to improved local SEO and a stronger online reputation. Meanwhile, WhatsApp integration offers a direct and convenient communication channel, helping businesses connect with customers in real-time.
To maximize the benefits of these features, businesses should implement strategic usage practices. Using QR codes on receipts, business cards, and in-store signage can significantly boost review collection. Simultaneously, integrating WhatsApp as a customer service channel improves accessibility and responsiveness. By combining these tools, businesses can build trust, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive more conversions.
Staying competitive in the digital landscape requires ongoing adaptation to new GBP features. Businesses should continuously monitor the performance of these tools, optimize their usage, and educate customers about their availability. Regular updates from Google present opportunities for businesses to refine their digital marketing strategies and improve customer experiences.
By leveraging these new GBP updates effectively, businesses can strengthen their online presence, foster lasting customer relationships, and achieve sustainable growth in an increasingly digital-first world.
Thatware | Founder & CEO
Tuhin is recognized across the globe for his vision to revolutionize digital transformation industry with the help of cutting-edge technology. He won bronze for India at the Stevie Awards USA as well as winning the India Business Awards, India Technology Award, Top 100 influential tech leaders from Analytics Insights, Clutch Global Front runner in digital marketing, founder of the fastest growing company in Asia by The CEO Magazine and is a TEDx speaker and BrightonSEO speaker.
