E20: New GBP Feature, AI Isn't Replacing Local Search, LSA Tips

New GBP Insights section!

February 17, 2026

Have you seen the new “Insights” section on your Google Business Profile?

Dipa Gandhi recently shared a screenshot of it, and it’s pretty cool. It highlights optimization opportunities right inside your Profile 👇️

You’ll see text boxes with suggestions like:

  • Add more photos

  • Add updates to your Profile

  • Continue replying to reviews

  • What’s the parking like?

  • Share accessibility info

Each one comes with a short explanation, for example: “Show people what’s new: 20+ businesses like you don’t have fresh photos.”

Google is clearly pushing businesses to complete and keep their Profiles fresh.

Why? Because the more data you give them, the better they can understand your business, surface you in the right searches, and present you to potential customers. And yes… that data is also training their AI.

Claire and I discuss this in today’s episode of the Whitespark Local Update. We also talk about:

  • Google reviews bug on Chrome (Vinay Toshniwal)

  • AI isn’t replacing local search (Crystal Carter on the NearMemo podcast)

  • How to improve LSA visibility (Eric Levine on the NearMemo podcast)

  • Misinformation about chunking (Mike King)

  • User satisfaction is the most important factor in SEO (Marie Haynes)

  • Schema and AI visibility (Mark Williams-Cook)

Watch the episode here 👇️

🎧 Or if you prefer listening, find it on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

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Darren