Google has announced that it will discontinue its “Order with Google” button for food delivery by the end of June 2024. This change means that customers will no longer be able to place direct orders through Google; instead, they will be redirected to third-party sites like DoorDash, GrubHub, and Uber Eats to complete their transactions. While this button provided a seamless ordering process, Google is now shifting its approach, affecting both businesses and users accustomed to the convenience. The update comes as part of changes to the Google Business Profile merchant experience, as noted by Claudia Tomina, who shared insights about the transition. Have you heard about Google’s latest big change?
Google Discontinuing Order with Google For Food Delivery in June
Yes, you read that right. Google has announced that it will be discontinuing its “Order with Google” feature for food delivery by the end of June 2024. This decision is set to impact various third-party food delivery services such as DoorDash, GrubHub, and Uber Eats. So, if you’re someone who loves ordering your favorite meals with just a few taps on Google, this news is worth your attention. Let’s break it all down.
What’s Happening?
In a recent notification, Google confirmed that it will be ending its “Order with Google” service. This means that the convenient “Order Now” button you’ve been using via Google Business Profile (GBP) to make direct orders will no longer be available after June 2024.
Why Is Google Doing This?
You might be wondering why Google has decided to pull the plug on something that made our lives so convenient. Well, the decision appears to be part of a broader strategy to streamline its offerings and direct users to third-party platforms. According to an update from GrubHub, Google will now redirect users to the provider’s sites instead of offering a direct ordering option.
How Did We Find Out?
Claudia Tomina, a member of the food delivery service community, shared a crucial update on this change through a social media post on X (formerly known as Twitter). She revealed that GrubHub had sent out notifications to their users about Google discontinuing the “Order with Google” feature. Her post included a screenshot of an email sent out by GrubHub, confirming the news.
Impact on Food Delivery Services
So, what does this mean for third-party food delivery services like DoorDash, GrubHub, and Uber Eats? Essentially, these platforms will no longer have the “Order with Google” button available on Google Business Profiles. Instead, users will be directed straight to the delivery service’s webpage.
Here’s how the process is set to change:
| Current Experience | Future Experience |
|---|---|
| Users can directly order through Google with the “Order Now” button. | Users will be redirected to the third-party provider’s site to place an order. |
| Integration keeps users within the Google interface. | Users will leave Google’s interface to complete their order. |
The User Experience
If you’re someone who loves the convenience of ordering food through Google, this change might feel like a hiccup. Currently, when you search for a restaurant on Google, you might see an “Order Now” button that allows you to place an order right there without having to leave Google’s ecosystem. By the end of June 2024, this seamless experience will be no more.
Pros and Cons
Let’s weigh the pros and cons of this change:
Pros:
- Focused Platform Experience: By being redirected to the food delivery service’s platform, you may get a richer, more complete ordering experience.
- Potential for Special Offers: Delivery services might offer exclusive deals and loyalty perks not available through Google.
Cons:
- Added Steps: You’ll need to navigate away from Google and find your way through another platform, which adds steps to the process.
- Loss of Convenience: It interrupts the flow of browsing and ordering that Google offered in a single interface.
Feedback from the Community
The initial reaction from the online community has been mixed. On platforms like X, users have expressed both understanding and frustration. Some argue that going through the delivery provider’s site may offer better deals, while others mourn the loss of a streamlined, easy-to-use ordering process.
Industry Insight
Barry Schwartz, an industry expert, initially reported on this topic, mentioning that the “Order with Google” button was set to go away. Later, he was corrected by Claudia Tomina, who clarified that while the direct ordering feature would be gone, orders would still be directed to third-party links. This adjustment emphasizes that Google is not entirely exiting the food ordering scene but is shifting the experience to third-party platforms.
What to Expect Moving Forward
From now until the end of June 2024, you’ll still be able to use the “Order with Google” button without any issues. However, it might be a good idea to start familiarizing yourself with the individual food delivery services’ apps and websites. Here’s a quick guide to get you started:
- DoorDash: Visit their official website or download the app from your phone’s app store.
- GrubHub: Similar to DoorDash, you can place orders via their website or app.
- Uber Eats: Available through the Uber Eats website and app, which is user-friendly and offers a variety of restaurants.
Adapting to the Change
Changes like this often spur some unease, but it’s worth considering that moving towards a model where third-party services manage their orders entirely could lead to improvements. These platforms have more control over your user experience and can offer features you won’t find through Google.
Tips for a Smoother Transition
Download Multiple Apps: If you don’t already, make sure you have the apps of your preferred food delivery services. This can speed up your ordering process.
Save Your Favorites: Most food delivery apps let you save your favorite orders or restaurants. Utilize this feature for quick reorder options.
Stay Updated on Deals: Food delivery services often run exclusive promotions. Keep an eye out for those offers which you may have missed on Google.
Conclusion
Google’s decision to discontinue the “Order with Google” feature by June 2024 will indeed mark the end of an era for seamless food ordering through its platform. While it may pose some inconvenience initially, there’s also a silver lining. Third-party services can offer a more enriched user experience and exclusive deals that might make the additional steps worth it.
So, while you may miss the simplicity of ordering directly through Google, this change opens up new opportunities to explore the full capabilities of the food delivery services you love. Happy ordering!
Got more questions or want to share your thoughts? Feel free to join the conversation online. This news has a lot of people talking, and your voice is just as important in shaping how we all adapt to this new landscape.
