Google Business Profile’s BIGGEST Messaging Update: WhatsApp & SMS Are NOW LIVE!

Written By David Rivers

🚀 Game-Changer for Local Businesses!

Imagine a world where potential customers can instantly message you through Google Business Profile (GBP) using WhatsApp or SMS. Well, that world is here!

Google just rolled out a major messaging update, integrating WhatsApp alongside SMS messaging directly into GBP. This update gives businesses a powerful new way to connect with customers – and if you’re not using it yet, you’re missing out!

Let's break down exactly what this means, the pros and cons, and how you can set it up today!

📌 Why This Update Matters

Google has offered messaging in GBP before, but it never really caught on and was shut down in July 2024. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has exploded as a business communication tool, so Google decided to bring it into the mix. Now, businesses can:

✅ Let customers message them instantly from their GBP listing.
✅ Offer both WhatsApp & SMS as contact options.
✅ Make it easier than ever for customers to reach out without calling or filling out forms.

This feature was tested in South America, rolled out in the U.S., and is now available worldwide! 🌍

🔥 Pros & Cons of the New GBP Messaging Feature

✅ Pros – Why You Need to Enable This ASAP

✔️ Works on Multiple Business Profiles – If you have more than one GBP listing, you can use the same WhatsApp link across all of them.
✔️ Super Convenient for Customers – Not everyone wants to call a business; some prefer texting. This removes barriers to engagement.
✔️ Insane Open Rates – 98% of WhatsApp & SMS messages get read (compared to just 20% for emails).
✔️ More Ways to Connect – Having both WhatsApp and SMS doubles your chances of getting leads.

❌ Cons – A Few Things to Keep in Mind

⚠️ Mobile-Only (For Now) – This feature is not yet available on desktop or the Google Maps app, only on mobile search.
⚠️ No Built-In Tracking – Google doesn’t provide stats on how many people click your chat buttons. You’ll need to track it manually.
⚠️ Can Be Overwhelming – If you get too many messages, it might be hard to keep up with responses.

🔑 The Verdict: Despite these drawbacks, every business owner should turn this on immediately – the benefits far outweigh the downsides.

🛠️ How to Enable WhatsApp & SMS Messaging on Your Google Business Profile

Setting this up is quick and easy! Here’s how to do it:

1️⃣ Log Into Your Google Business Profile

  • Open your GBP dashboard.

  • Click “Edit Profile”.

2️⃣ Enable WhatsApp Messaging

  • Go to the Contact tab and find the Chat option.

  • Click the pencil icon to edit.

  • Choose WhatsApp from the dropdown.

  • Add your WhatsApp Click-to-Chat link (not your phone number!).

    • Format: https://wa.me/ + your full international phone number (no spaces, brackets, or dashes).

    • Example (UK Number: +44 7123456789):

      • https://wa.me/447123456789

  • Save your settings.

3️⃣ Enable SMS Messaging

  • Select Text Message from the dropdown.

  • Pick your country.

  • Enter your phone number (without country code).

  • Hit Save.

4️⃣ Wait for Google to Verify

  • Your settings will be in pending mode for a few minutes while Google verifies everything.

  • To check if it’s working, search for your business on a mobile web browser (not the Google Maps app!).

🎯 Pro Tip: While you're at it, why not add your social media links to your GBP as well? It’s another great way to boost your online presence!

🤔 FAQs – Everything You Need to Know

❓ Will my business get spammed with messages?

Not likely! While there’s always a risk of unwanted messages, most legitimate customers will be reaching out with real inquiries.

❓ Can I track how many people message me?

Unfortunately, Google does not provide analytics on chat clicks. The best way to track effectiveness is to monitor incoming WhatsApp and SMS messages manually.

❓ Is this available on Google Maps?

Not yet. This feature only works when customers search for your business on mobile web browsers.

❓ Can I remove this feature later?

Yes! You can turn off WhatsApp or SMS messaging anytime by going back into your GBP settings.

❓ Do I need a business WhatsApp account?

No, but it’s highly recommended. A WhatsApp Business account lets you automate responses and organize chats better.

🎯 Final Thoughts: Should You Enable This Feature?

Absolutely! This is a huge opportunity to improve customer engagement and generate more leads.

If you’re serious about dominating local SEO and converting more potential customers, activating WhatsApp & SMS messaging in GBP is a no-brainer.

🚀 Don’t wait – set it up now and make it easier for customers to connect with you!

💡 Need Help With Local SEO in Newcastle, NSW?

At Mojo Mesh, we specialize in local SEO to help businesses rank higher on Google and attract more local customers. If you need assistance setting up GBP messaging, optimizing your Google Business Profile, or boosting your rankings, get in touch today!

📍 Based in Newcastle, NSW
📧 Email: hello@mojomesh.com.au
📞 Call: 0431 722 372
🔗 LinkedIn: David Michael Rivers

Let’s get your business more leads, more customers, and more success! 🚀

David Rivers
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