NEW YORK: Google has included the Local Guides feature in the latest update of Google Maps (version 9.4.0 for those playing at home). The Local Guides feature exists to highlight local haunts which have received great feedback from Local Guides who receive benefits in return for reviewing local places. The Local Guides program exists ‘everywhere Google Maps is’ but the benefits offered exist only in Sydney at this stage.
To be considered a Local Guide, users will need to complete 50 reviews of local businesses, at which point a ‘Local Guide’ badge will appear in the Local Guides section.
There’s been a comparison of the Local Guides program to the Yelp Elite reviewers program, which seems to have a little better reach, but is very similar in scope.
If users are a Local Guide already, they will be familiar with the program and benefits, or if they are interested in signing up, they can head to the Local Guides landing page to find out more information.
