If you have been managing your business online or working on local SEO, you’ve probably heard about Google My Business (GMB). However, many business owners are now confused because GMB no longer exists under the same name. Google has officially rebranded and updated the platform to make business management easier and more integrated with search results. Today, understanding what GMB is called now is essential for maintaining online visibility, especially when working with the best GMB expert in Kolkata to improve local rankings and customer engagement.
Let’s explore the new name, why Google made the change, and how it affects businesses today.
What Was Google My Business (GMB)?
Before understanding the new name, it’s important to know what GMB originally was.
Google My Business was a free tool introduced by Google that allowed businesses to manage their online presence across Google Search and Google Maps. Through GMB, businesses could:
Add business information
Update contact details
Upload photos and videos
Collect customer reviews
Share updates and offers
Track customer interactions
It became one of the most powerful tools for local SEO and customer acquisition.
What is GMB Called Now?
Google My Business is now officially called Google Business Profile.
In late 2021, Google announced the transition from Google My Business to Google Business Profile (GBP). The goal behind this change was to simplify how businesses manage their listings directly from Google Search and Maps instead of using a separate dashboard.
Today, businesses can edit their profiles simply by searching their business name while logged into their Google account.
Why Did Google Change the Name?
Google rebranded GMB to Google Business Profile to create a more streamlined and user-friendly experience.
Here are the main reasons behind the change:
1. Easier Business Management
Google wanted business owners to manage profiles directly from Search and Maps without logging into a separate platform.
2. Mobile-First Approach
Most business owners now operate from smartphones. The new system allows quick edits, updates, and responses on mobile devices.
3. Improved Customer Interaction
Customers can now interact more easily through messaging, reviews, bookings, and Q&A features.
4. Better Integration with Google Ecosystem
Google Business Profile works more closely with Google Maps, local search results, and voice searches.
Key Features of Google Business Profile
Although the name has changed, many powerful features remain — along with new improvements.
Business Information Management
You can update:
Business name
Address
Phone number
Website
Working hours
Services and products
Reviews and Reputation Management
Customer reviews directly influence local rankings. Responding professionally helps build trust and credibility.
Posts and Updates
Businesses can publish offers, announcements, events, or news to engage customers.
Insights and Performance Tracking
Google Business Profile provides valuable analytics such as:
Search queries
Customer actions
Calls and direction requests
Website visits
How the Change Impacts Local SEO
The shift from GMB to Google Business Profile has significantly impacted local SEO strategies.
Businesses that actively optimize their profiles tend to appear in Google’s Local Pack — the top three business listings shown in search results.
Proper optimization now includes:
Accurate business categories
Keyword-rich descriptions
Regular posting
Review management
Updated images
Many companies rely on the best GMB expert in Kolkata to optimize their Google Business Profile correctly and maintain consistent visibility in competitive local markets.
How to Access Your Google Business Profile Now
Managing your business listing is now simpler than ever.
Method 1: Through Google Search
Log into your Google account.
Search your business name.
Click “Edit Profile” options shown directly in search results.
Method 2: Through Google Maps
Open Google Maps.
Tap your profile icon.
Select “Your Business Profiles.”
No separate GMB dashboard is required anymore.
Common Mistakes Businesses Make After the Update
Even though the transition seems simple, many businesses make critical mistakes.
Ignoring Profile Updates
Outdated business hours or contact details can reduce customer trust.
Not Responding to Reviews
Engagement signals strongly influence rankings.
Inconsistent Information
Mismatch between website and profile data can harm local SEO performance.
Lack of Optimization
Simply creating a profile is not enough. Continuous optimization is required for results.
Benefits of Google Business Profile for Modern Businesses
The updated platform provides several advantages:
Higher local search visibility
Increased customer trust
More website traffic
Better conversion opportunities
Direct customer communication
Whether you run a restaurant, clinic, agency, or retail store, Google Business Profile acts as your digital storefront.
Why Professional Optimization Matters
While Google Business Profile is free, effective optimization requires expertise. Strategic keyword placement, review handling, posting schedules, and category selection all impact ranking performance.
Businesses aiming for long-term growth often collaborate with professionals who understand algorithm updates and local search behavior. Working with the best GMB expert in Kolkata ensures that your profile remains optimized, competitive, and aligned with Google’s latest standards.
Must Read: Is Local SEO Worth It? A Complete Guide for Businesses
Final Thoughts
So, what is GMB called now? The answer is simple — Google Business Profile. Although the name has changed, its importance has grown even more in today’s digital-first marketplace.
Google continues to focus on local search experiences, making business profiles a critical factor for attracting nearby customers. Companies that actively manage and optimize their listings gain a significant advantage over competitors who ignore updates.
If you want to maximize visibility, customer engagement, and local rankings, partnering with the best GMB expert in Kolkata can help your business fully leverage Google Business Profile and stay ahead in the evolving local SEO landscape.
