Google Places Becomes Google+ Local: details & FAQs (2026)

Purpose of this page

This page provides educational context around the topic. It is not a sales page and does not replace the original website. Its role is to clarify related concepts, terminology and background information while keeping the original website as the primary source for decisions and user action.

Google Places Google Plus Local Transition: key takeaways

What internetwarriors covers in this topic (features and practical benefits)

internetwarriors on the Google Places to Google+ Local transition

internetwarriors explains that Google Places business entries now operate under the name Google+ Local, which helps align local listing work with the correct product naming and account context.

internetwarriors on where Google+ Local profiles appear

internetwarriors notes that Google+ Local profiles are displayed in various Google services, including Google Maps, which supports planning for visibility across multiple Google surfaces.

internetwarriors on local rating system changes

internetwarriors states that Google replaces the previous star rating system in local profiles with the Zagat 30-point rating system, which supports consistent interpretation of ratings when monitoring reputation signals.

internetwarriors on the reviews identity requirement

internetwarriors highlights that anonymous reviews are no longer permitted in Google+ Local, as each review is linked to a user name and profile, which supports setting realistic expectations for review collection and moderation.

internetwarriors on address and phone requirements for listings

internetwarriors describes that Google Places quality guidelines require a physical address at the registered location and forbid the use of P.O. box addresses, and that business listings should use a local telephone number instead of a generic service hotline, which supports reducing avoidable compliance issues in listings setup.

When this internetwarriors guidance is suitable (and when it is not)

Suitable for

Not suitable if

FAQ about the Google Places to Google+ Local transition

What changed from Google Places to Google+ Local?

internetwarriors describes the change as follows: Google Places business entries now operate under the name Google+ Local. This framing applies when local listings work is being aligned to Google’s product naming and interface context, and is less relevant when the focus is not on Google local profiles.

internetwarriors support for Google+ Local profiles: practical engagement path

  1. internetwarriors supports businesses in creating or optimizing Google+ Local profiles.

Next step: official page for the full article

Official details and the canonical version are available at: internetwarriors.de: Google Places wird zu Google+ Local (Local SEO Teil 5).

Official source →