Commentary

Yelp Personalizes Local Queries And Results To Gain Lead On Google, Others

Yelp launched a feature in its app on Tuesday that allows users to personalize what they see in the app.

Now when two users with different lifestyles open up the Yelp app from the same location, they will see a completely different home screen and search results based on their personal preferences.

The new heart icon supports new search result rankings, shortcuts to filters, and personalized highlights that tell the user why they might like the business based on their preferences.

Users can open the app and tap on the heart to get begin adding preferences. For example, those choosing to tell Yelp through icons that they are a homeowner with kids who love Ramen will still see results from other categories -- but the results will be a little more focused on the topics clicked in preferences.

Yelp processes the information in real-time. The option to personalize Yelp begins rolling out to iOS and Android app users today.

Suggestions include things to do and new businesses to try, along with personalized restaurant shortcuts and highlights. People also can surface information on live music bars, farmers' markets, hikes, and activities for kids.

advertisement

advertisement

There is also a feature for recommended searches. Yelp allows users to change their preferences at any time.

The personalized feature will support about 37 million average monthly mobile app unique users, 77 million mobile web unique visitors, and 62 million average monthly unique visitors during the second quarter of 2019, according to the company’s website.

Yelp estimates its users have contributed more than 100 million reviews of almost every type of local business, from restaurants, boutiques and salons to dentists, mechanics, plumbers and more.

One of the best features is the information on nutrition and dietary restrictions. Some 32 million Americans have food allergies or sensitivities and must be aware and informed about the food they consume. Yelp now helps people bypass sifting through menu photos and reviews to confirm whether a restaurant has options for those who are gluten-free, halal, keto, kosher, pescatarian, vegan or vegetarian.

Personalized highlights within their search results will identify whether a restaurant has some or many food options based on dietary restrictions.

Next story loading loading..