Google Maps introduces sponsored icons
Published September 02, 2010
Businesses looking to promote themselves to local consumers may be able to do so more effectively with the introduction of sponsored map icons to Google Maps.
Announced on Wednesday, the feature enables brands to display their logos or icons on Google Maps, helping them stand stand out from other local companies. The feature benefits both consumers and businesses by making the map more intuitive while also promoting the sponsoring organization.
While the feature is just being introduced to American businesses, sponsored icons have been available in other territories, such as New Zealand and Australia, for six months.
The function is currently in its beta phase, so only a limited number of brands have implemented paid logos into their digital marketing campaigns. As Google product manager Matthew Leske notes, though, the service may open to more companies once it's finalized in the future. Additionally, icons will be soon be viewable from mobile devices.
Many advertisers have exhibited increased interest in using mobile technologies to reach local consumers, leading to the launch of geographically based platforms, such as the recent debut of Facebook Places.