From this week the Google Maps app will be directing users to more than locations: the app now runs local ads along search queries.

Road map to monetisation

The Google Maps app recently received a major overhaul including traffic reporting, food reviews from Zagat and an updated interface. 

Now Google AdWords customers can target Maps users once they've performed a search.

For example, if a user searches for “Italian restaurant”, a box now appears on the bottom of the screen displaying information and directions to a relevant business.

Tap that

Users can tap this box to access more information, such as the business address, phone number, images and reviews.

The presentation is similar to a standard business listing, except for a small purple icon reading “ad”.

Adding up

While Google Maps isn't new to advertising, this update means users can pay more to appear higher on the list of relevant businesses, which may boost exposure and foot traffic.

To find out more visit support.google.com.

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