Understanding the Google Street View Trusted Badge Program Closing Down

Google has officially announced that it will retire the Street View Trusted Badge Program by December 31st, 2024. This development might raise questions and concerns, especially with the trusted program shutting down. As a valued client, we want to reassure you that our services will continue uninterrupted, and it’s business as usual for your online presence.

Why Is the Program Shutting Down?

Google’s decision to retire the program is part of its efforts to evolve and improve user-contributed imagery on Google Maps. The program shutting down signifies a shift towards new methodologies and technologies that will enhance the way users interact with virtual tours and 360-degree imagery.

Our Commitment Remains Strong

Even with the trusted program shutting down, our ability to provide high-quality virtual tours and 360-degree images remains unaffected. Here’s what we continue to offer:

• Publishing Standalone Photo Spheres: We will keep uploading individual 360-degree photos that highlight specific areas of your business, ensuring that customers can explore your space in detail.
• Connected Virtual Tours: Our immersive virtual tours allow potential customers to navigate through your business seamlessly, a service that continues despite the trusted program shutting down.
• Matterport: We can also create Matterport tours, enhancing user navigation and engagement.

What Changes Can You Expect?

The primary changes relate to branding and certain support features due to the trusted program shutting down:

• Removal of Trusted Badge and Marketing Materials: Google will discontinue the use of the Google Trusted Photographer badge and any related branding by December 31st, 2024. This change is a direct result of the trusted program shutting down.
• Dedicated Support Changes: The specialised support previously available through Google’s Help Centre will no longer be accessible. However, we are there still to fill that gap and provide you with the necessary support as a valued customer of ours.
• For-Hire List Retirement: Our listing on the Street View website’s for-hire section will be removed, aligning with the trusted program shutting down.

Your Existing Content Stays Live !!

All the virtual tours and imagery we have published on your behalf will remain live and accessible on Google Maps. The trusted program shutting down does not affect existing content. There is no action required from you, and your business’s visibility on Google Maps will continue as before.

How We Are Adapting to the Change

Our team is proactively adapting to the changes brought about by the trusted program shutting down. We are exploring new tools and platforms to enhance our services further. Our commitment is to stay at the forefront of virtual tour technology to provide you with the best possible experience.

The Future of Virtual Tours Post-Trusted Program Shutting

Google has expressed enthusiasm about the next chapter of user-contributed Street View imagery. With the trusted badge program shutting down, new opportunities will emerge to innovate and improve how businesses like yours can showcase themselves online. We are excited to be part of this evolution and to bring these advancements to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the trusted badge program shutting down affect my business’s search rankings?

No, the trusted program shutting down will not impact your search rankings. Your existing virtual tours and imagery will remain live on Google Maps, ensuring continued visibility.

Do I need to take any action due to the trusted program shutting down?

No immediate action is required on your part. We will handle all necessary changes related to branding and support to comply with Google’s guidelines following the trusted program shutting down.

How will this change affect future virtual tours?

We will continue to create and publish virtual tours and 360-degree imagery for your business. The process remains largely the same, even with the trusted program shutting down.

We’re Here to Support You

Our primary goal is to ensure that your business continues to thrive online. With the trusted program shutting down, we understand that you may have concerns or questions. Please feel free to contact us at any time. We are committed to providing you with the support and information you need during this transition.

Conclusion

While the Google Street View Trusted Program is shutting down, our dedication to showcasing your business in the best possible light remains stronger than ever. We view the trusted program shutting down not as an end but as a new beginning—a chance to innovate and enhance the services we offer you even further.