Google Business Profile appears to be testing a new verification option called “Submit a business photo.” Some businesses have spotted this option during the verification process.
Google has not officially announced the feature or added it to its Business Profile Help documentation yet. This suggests it may currently be a test or limited rollout.
What’s New With Google Business Profile Verification?
Google currently offers several Business Profile verification methods:
- Phone
- Live Video
- Postcard Verification
The newly spotted “Submit a business photo” option could give businesses another way to verify their profiles.
Google Business Profile Product Expert Ben Fisher spotted and shared the new option on LinkedIn, including screenshots of the verification flow.
Note: Ben Fisher shared this image on LinkedIn.
How the “Submit a Business Photo” Verification Option Works
Based on the reported verification interface, the process appears to work as follows:
- Select “Submit a business photo” if the option appears during the Business Profile verification process.
- Take or submit a photo of the business location as requested during verification.
- Show the business name on a permanent fixture, such as a storefront signboard.
- Include the entire storefront in one frame so Google can see the business location.
- Submit the photo for verification through the Business Profile interface.
These steps are based on the verification interface reported by users.
Why Is Google Testing Another Business Verification Option?
Google has not explained why it is testing photo-based verification.
Ben Fisher said the feature “could be a pretty significant change,” noting that photos have traditionally served as supporting evidence rather than a standalone verification method.
Fisher also suggested Google could potentially use the submitted photo alongside location data, Street View, existing business information, and other trust signals.
These signals could make photo verification part of a broader approach to assessing whether a business is legitimate.
What This Means for Local Businesses
If expanded, the option would give eligible businesses another way to complete Business Profile verification. A verified profile can then be optimized to attract more leads from Google.
It could be particularly useful for businesses that have difficulty using other available verification methods.
There is currently no indication that submitting a business photo is a local ranking factor.
What Business Owners Should Do
For now, business owners should:
- Use the verification method currently offered for their Business Profile.
- Check for the new option if “Submit a business photo” appears during verification.
- Follow Google’s on-screen photo requirements when submitting an image.
- Keep business signage clear and visible, with the correct business name displayed.
- Avoid relying on the new option, as Google has not confirmed a wider rollout yet.
The Bottom Line
Google appears to be testing “Submit a business photo” as an additional Business Profile verification method.
The option gives some businesses another potential way to verify their profiles and could signal a broader shift toward photo-based verification.
However, the option has been spotted in the verification flow, but Google has not confirmed a wider rollout or added the method to its official documentation yet.
