Google is testing a new local knowledge panel layout in Search.
Business photos, names, ratings, and descriptions may appear in different positions.
Action button placement is also changing, potentially affecting user interactions with local listings.
Google is testing a new layout for local knowledge panels in Search. The experimental design changes the position of business photos, company names, ratings, descriptions, and action buttons. While the update is relatively small, it could change how users interact with local business listings.
In the new design, Google appears to have switched the placement of business information and photos. The company name, ratings, description, and action buttons now appear in different positions compared to the existing layout.
The updated design also features a more compact lower section, reducing the space occupied by some elements. The overall appearance is closer to the layout Google currently uses for local knowledge panels on mobile devices.
Ben Fisher shared screenshots of the experimental layout in a LinkedIn post.
The change has not been easy to reproduce, suggesting that Google may be testing it with a limited group of users. However, there is no official confirmation that the new layout will become permanent.
In the case where Google deploys the new design, the positioning of important business details can play a big role in determining how people use local business search results.
The new design could affect the number of clicks, phone calls, or physical visits made by users due to modifications in the visibility of such details like phone numbers, directions, pictures, and other action buttons. But the exact effect would depend on how Google would deploy the new design and how people react to it.
As for now, local businesses need to keep checking the performance of their Google Search.
