Google My Business vs Google Business Profile: What's the Difference?
What you need to know about the name change and new features in Google's business tools.
Google renamed "Google My Business" to "Google Business Profile" in 2021. But the change was more than just a name — it brought significant new features and workflow changes. Here's everything you need to know.
The Name Change Explained
In November 2021, Google officially transitioned from "Google My Business" to "Google Business Profile." The rebrand reflected Google's shift toward integrating business management directly into Google Search and Maps, rather than requiring a separate app or website.
Key Differences
Management Interface - Before (GMB): Managed through a dedicated web dashboard (business.google.com) and a separate mobile app - After (GBP): Managed directly from Google Search and Google Maps, with the web dashboard being gradually deprecated
Feature Changes - Direct editing from Search: Type your business name in Google Search while logged in, and edit your profile directly - Messaging in Maps: Chat with customers directly through Google Maps - Call history: Track customer calls through your profile - Performance insights: More detailed analytics and new metrics
What Stayed the Same - Profile information management (NAP, hours, photos) - Review management and responses - Google Posts functionality - Categories and attributes - Verification process
Why the Change Matters for Your Business
- Easier Management: Edit your profile directly from search results without navigating to a separate dashboard
- Faster Updates: Changes can be made instantly when you spot an error
- Better Integration: Profile management is now part of your regular Google workflow
- Enhanced Insights: New performance metrics help you understand customer behavior better
What You Need to Do
If you were previously using Google My Business:
- Your profile automatically migrated to Google Business Profile
- No data was lost during the transition
- You can still access some features at business.google.com
- Start getting familiar with managing your profile from Google Search
Tips for the New Interface
- Search for your business name while signed in to access editing tools
- Use the "Edit profile" button that appears in your business knowledge panel
- Download the Google Maps app for on-the-go management
- Bookmark the Business Profile Manager for multi-location management
Conclusion
Whether you call it Google My Business or Google Business Profile, the fundamentals remain the same: keep your profile complete, accurate, and actively managed. The new interface simply makes it easier to do so as part of your daily Google workflow.
