Google Search Adds "Call Back" Button to Local Results — Verified Phone Number Required

Google is rolling out a "Request Callback" feature for local businesses appearing in mobile search results. When a user searches for a local service and sees your listing, they can tap "Request Callback" instead of calling directly. They enter their name and number; Google sends you a notification via the Business Profile app with the request details.

The feature is currently available for businesses with a verified phone number in GBP and at least 10 reviews. It appears to be prioritised for service-based businesses (hair salons, pet groomers, fitness studios) rather than retail or food, likely because these categories have higher appointment-driven inquiry rates.

For busy small business owners who can't always answer the phone mid-service, this is a significant quality-of-life improvement. A hair salon owner in Chicago noted that the callback feature generated 8 new client inquiries in its first week — all from people who would have hung up if they got voicemail.