Today’s MarketingGoogle tests an AI local pack with no call or website buttons
Google is testing an AI Overview version of the local pack that removes action buttons, reviews, photos and other business details. Joy Hawkins said that on mobile the traditional local pack disappears whenever this version shows, even though it draws on the Google Business Profile. Search Engine Roundtable replicated the test and said it cannot be good for clicks, calls or direction requests.
Our take
If this test sticks, being named in the AI summary is the whole game for local businesses, because the buttons that turned a listing into a call are gone. Watch your Business Profile calls and website clicks this week for a drop. Make sure your profile description, categories and reviews spell out exactly what you do and where, since that text is what the AI pulls from.
