Tech Desk 
Jun 03, 2024
Tech giant Google is shutting down its Business Profile Chat feature, a messaging service that allows users to connect directly with businesses through Google Maps and search.
This feature, also known as Google Business Messaging, will be discontinued on July 31, 2024, with new chats no longer possible after July 2024.
Google's decision to shut down the feature may come as a surprise to businesses that have relied on it for customer service inquiries and interactions.
However, Google has assured business that this move is a part of its efforts to refine and improve its offerings.
Key dates and actions to take for Businesses
July 15, 2024
Customers won’t be able to start new chats with businesses, but ongoing conversation can continue until July 31.
July 31, 2024
Google will permanently remove the chat functionality and call history from Google Business Profiles.
To prepare for the shutdown, businesses can download their chat and call history through Google Takeout before July 31. This data can be archived for future reference or integrated into other customer relationship management (CRM) systems.
The shutdown of Google Business Messaging serves as a reminder to businesses to diversify their communication channels and not rely solely on tech platforms. While the shutdown highlights the ever-evolving tech landscape and the need for businesses to adapt.
