Gemini for GBP, Siri Is Better, Downstream AI, Yelp's Big Win

Gemini for GBP Is a Big Deal

Last month Google announced new Gemini features for small businesses. Rolling out this month (except in Europe), it's a significant development. It's not just another lame Gemini add-on to an existing product (e.g., Workspace, Chrome). It could be "game changing" for SMBs. There are two overlapping elements: 1) connecting Gemini and GBP and 2) a new Gemini-powered "Business Notebook." Once Gemini is connected, it simplifies profile management and offers a new "plain-language" way to access performance insights. It also helps SMBs understand, manage and respond to reviews and update their GBPs. Soon you'll be able to publish review responses directly from Gemini. The second piece, Business Notebooks, is like NotebookLM for your business data. It automatically captures data from GBP (including reviews) and your website. Business owners can also upload non-public documents, which help it personalize recommendations. It will also proactively identify GBP action items and deliver customized suggestions about promotional campaigns. Google calls it a "thought partner." Only a minority of SMBs have claimed their GBPs, according to multiple recent surveys. These new tools may grow that number and deepen engagement for those already using Google Business Profiles. Google said access is currently limited to single location businesses but will be coming to agencies and multi-location brands.