Short answer: Messaging in Google Business Profile (chat) was discontinued by Google in 2024, and the public Q&A feature has been reduced and changed over time, with Google moving towards AI-generated answers from your profile and reviews. Today, the best approach is to keep your profile information complete and accurate, add a WhatsApp or booking link, publish FAQs on your website and answer common questions in posts and review replies.
Many Faridabad businesses used Google’s chat button to receive enquiries directly from Maps. When Google turned off chat, some were confused about where those customer questions would go. Google has also been changing how public questions and answers appear. Because these features keep evolving, always check what your own profile currently shows.
What Changed
| Feature | Status | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Chat or messaging | Discontinued by Google in 2024 | Use phone, WhatsApp and website links |
| Public Q&A | Reduced and changing, with AI answers appearing in some places | Keep profile details and FAQs complete |
| Calls, website, booking buttons | Still available | Make sure they are set up correctly |
6 Smart Alternatives
1. Complete every profile field
AI-generated answers draw on your profile information, so fill in services, attributes, hours, accessibility details and description accurately.
2. Add a WhatsApp link
Many businesses add a WhatsApp click-to-chat link as their website or booking link where appropriate, or mention WhatsApp in posts. Our free WhatsApp link generator creates one with a pre-filled message.
3. Booking and appointment links
Clinics, salons and institutes can add appointment or booking links.
4. Website FAQ page
Answer common questions on your website. This helps customers and can be used by search and AI tools.
5. Use posts for answers
Turn frequent questions into weekly posts. See what to post each week.
6. Reply to reviews with useful details
Review replies are public and can clarify policies, timings and services politely.
Monitor Your Profile
- Check how your business appears on Maps on mobile every month.
- Look for any AI-generated summaries and correct underlying profile details if something is wrong.
- Suggest edits if third parties added incorrect information.
Learn Local SEO
Our local SEO course in Faridabad keeps up with Google Business Profile changes and teaches current best practices.
Key takeaways on Using q messaging Google business profile
- FeatureStatusWhat to do
Chat or messagingDiscontinued by Google in 2024Use phone, WhatsApp and website links
Public Q&AReduced and changing, with AI answers ap - 1. Complete every profile field
AI-generated answers draw on your profile information, so fill in services, attributes, hours, accessibility details and descrip - Check how your business appears on Maps on mobile every month.
- Our local SEO course in Faridabad keeps up with Google Business Profile changes and teaches current best practices.
Further reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Can customers still message us on Google?
Not through the old chat feature. They can call, visit your website or use links you provide such as WhatsApp.
Should we still answer questions on our profile?
If your profile still shows a questions section, answer accurately. Focus also on profile completeness and FAQs.
Why do features keep changing?
Google regularly updates Maps and Search. Following official announcements helps you adapt.
Related Reading
- Google Business Profile: How to Rank in the Local Map Pack
- WhatsApp Catalog Strategy for Faridabad Retailers
- How to Track Calls From Google Business Profile
- How to Rank in the Google Maps 3-Pack in Faridabad
Want to learn this with live campaigns and a trainer beside you? See the full digital marketing course in Faridabad, or check admission and batch dates.