Google has replaced
Google Places with a new feature for Google+ which it has called Google+ Local. It has previously been called Google Maps, Google Local, Google Places and now Google+ Local. It will let users of Google+ read and write reviews of businesses online, and is incorporating reviews from Zagat, which it took over last year. It will also incorporate Google Maps and business liostings. The main aim of course is to incorporate it into Google’s social network site Google+ which it hopes will rival Facebook.
The announcement from Google said: “Today we’re rolling out Google+ Local, a simple way to discover and share local information featuring ZAGAT scores and recommendations from people you trust in Google+. From the new “Local” icon on the left-hand side of Google+, you can search for specific places or browse for ones that fit your mood. Clicking on any place will take you to a local Google+ page that includes photos, Zagat’s high-quality scores and summaries, reviews from people in your circles and other information like address and opening hours. Google+ Local is also integrated across the other products you already use every day, including Search, Maps and mobile, so you can get the same great local information wherever you go.”