Bing has introduced a new feature to its local business search results, allowing users to chat directly with businesses. In the panel that displays the business information, there is now a link labeled “Chat online with a representative.”
This feature can be seen in action through a screenshot shared by Jennifer Slegg. It seems to be available exclusively in US search results at the moment, as I have not been able to activate it with my Canadian search results.
Upon clicking the link to chat with a representative, you are connected with the business through their preferred chat program. This feature is not specific to Bing, as it utilizes third-party messaging tools, which could range from native chat functions to platforms like Facebook Messenger.
The unique aspect of this Bing feature is that Google currently does not offer a similar service. Google had previously tested a feature that permitted users to connect with businesses via Google Hangouts.
That test never became a permanent feature, and Google has since shifted its focus away from Hangouts as an instant messaging tool, favoring its new app, Google Allo. Perhaps in the future, we may see Allo integrated into Google search to compete with Bing, but it is too early to make such predictions.
