Google Maps Tests Reviewer Nicknames and Adds New Trending Explore Tab Section

Google Maps is quietly rolling out two new updates aimed at improving the user experience: custom reviewer nicknames and a fresh Trending section under the Explore tab.
Both features appear to be in the experimental stage, reaching limited users, but they signal Google’s ongoing push toward personalization and better local discovery.

1. Reviewer Nicknames: Adding Personality to Reviews

Google Maps is testing a feature that lets reviewers use short, expressive nicknames that highlight their interest or expertise. These nicknames show up just below the reviewer’s name, giving readers quick insight into who is sharing the review.

Examples include:

• “Pizza Specialist”

• “Nature Trail Reviewer”

• “Local Guide – Food Explorer”

  

  Why It Matters

  More Context for Readers:
  Nicknames help users understand a reviewer’s background—whether they love coffee, travel spots, or local food.

  Higher Trust & Credibility:
  A review from someone labeled “Coffee Enthusiast” instantly feels more relevant when evaluating a café.

  Better Engagement:
  Reviewers may feel more encouraged to contribute when they have a unique identity within Maps.

  Business Impact

  Local businesses may benefit from:

  • Better-qualified reviews

  • Insights into customer interests

  • Increased trust from potential visitors

  2. New ‘Trending’ Section in the Explore Tab

  Alongside the nickname experiment, Google Maps is also showing a Trending section inside the Explore tab for select users.
  This section highlights places that are currently receiving higher attention and increased searches in the local area.
  

  What Appears in Trending?

  Early observations include:

  • Popular restaurants gaining traction

  • Newly opened cafés

  • Tourist spots increasing in visitor interest

  • Local experiences trending during weekends or events

  Why Google Is Testing This

  Enhanced Local Discovery:
  Trending locations help users find the most talked-about places instantly.

  Real-Time Movement Tracking:
  The feature appears dynamic—spots may rise or fall based on user interest.

  Better Personalization:
  Google can surface places aligned with your preferences, similar to how social platforms highlight trending topics.

  How These Changes Benefit Users

  Faster Decision-Making:
  With nicknames and trending suggestions, users can judge reviews and discover places more confidently.

  More Relevant Content:
  Nicknames add personality, while Trending emphasizes what others are exploring right now.

  Improved Exploration:
  Google Maps becomes not just a navigation tool, but a recommendation engine powered by community engagement.

  Are These Features Officially Released?

  Not yet. Both are still in the testing phase, visible only to a subset of users. Google often experiments with such features before deciding whether to roll them out globally.

  Final Takeaway

  Google Maps is shifting toward deeper personalization and real-time relevance.
  Reviewer nicknames bring character and transparency to reviews, while the Trending Explore section helps users find hotspots more efficiently.
  If these features go live for everyone, they may significantly enhance how users discover places, read reviews, and make local decisions.