Google Maps to let users hide their name and photo while posting reviews

Google Maps is getting a privacy-friendly update that will make writing reviews feel a lot more comfortable. The app will soon let users hide their real identity when they rate a restaurant, shop or service. Instead of showing your full name and Google profile photo, Maps will allow you to use a nickname and a different picture.

You will find a new option under Your Profile called Use a custom name and picture for posting. Once you tap it, you can choose an illustration to represent you and type in the name you want others to see. Your real account will still be linked to the review on Google’s backend. Google says this will help keep fake or suspicious reviews in check while still giving users more privacy.

Google did not clearly explain why it is adding anonymous reviews. The company introduced the feature in a fun way, calling it an option to act like a business’s “Secret Santa.” But the change also comes at a time when many users feel uncomfortable posting public reviews because it may reveal their location or daily routine. The new option could encourage more people to share honest experiences without worrying about being identified.

Google Maps is also improving the Explore tab to help you discover things around you more easily. When you swipe up, you will see a list of trending places to eat, new cafés, interesting activities and popular sights nearby. It could be a cute café that just opened or a small art gallery you never noticed before.