Google Changing Q&A Feature In Google Maps For Ask

12/15/25
Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article

TL;DR Summary of Google Replaces Q&A Feature in Maps with AI-Powered Ask Button

Google is phasing out the traditional Q&A feature in Google Maps, replacing it with an AI-powered Ask button on Google Business Profiles. This new system provides instant, aggregated answers to user questions, improving response relevance and saving businesses time. While the Q&A section remains available for businesses to manage internally, it will no longer be visible to the public on Maps.

Optimixed’s Overview: How Google’s New AI-Driven Ask Button is Transforming Customer Interaction on Maps

Background and Transition

Google introduced the Q&A feature in Google Maps in 2017 to allow users to post and receive answers directly on business profiles. However, over time, this feature became cumbersome as users struggled to sift through numerous questions to find relevant information. In response, Google has begun replacing the Q&A functionality with a more streamlined AI-powered Ask button in 2024.

Key Changes and Benefits

  • AI-Powered Instant Answers: Instead of manually scrolling through many questions, users can now receive up-to-date answers immediately based on aggregated business responses and relevant reviews.
  • Efficiency for Businesses: Businesses no longer need to respond to every individual query. Instead, their answers address common questions collectively, reducing repetitive effort.
  • Continued Backend Access: Business owners can still access and manage the Q&A section within their Google Business Profile dashboard, which helps Google understand real-world data, even if it’s no longer displayed on Maps.

Impact on Local Search Experience

This update aims to enhance the customer experience by providing quicker and more accurate information, while also streamlining the workload for business owners. The shift toward AI-driven responses reflects Google’s broader strategy to integrate artificial intelligence into local search features, ensuring users get relevant answers faster and businesses can maintain better control over their customer interactions.