Mapping brands, with Google
Google is rolling out its sponsored map icons in the US after trialling the service in Australia and New Zealand. The beta launch will feature four brands – Bank of America, HSBC, Public Storage and Target – who want to show off their physical locations on those very handy Google Maps.
“By helping users identify popular businesses, we’re making it easier to browse the map and navigate the real world,” says the search giant. “That might mean fortunately stumbling upon a nearby ATM when you’re looking up the address of the new restaurant where you’re dining tonight, or exploring the neighbourhood you just moved into by figuring out where the grocery store is relative to your new apartment.”
