In the last few days, many in the local SEO world have noticed that Google’s local results sometimes no longer show a call button. Some think this change is a bug, while others believe it’s part of Google’s new “Web Guide” interface rollout. Either way, the removal feels like a mistake rather than a deliberate improvement.
The issue first gained attention when Jason Hennessey posted about it on Facebook. Darren Shaw then shared Jason’s comments on LinkedIn, which sparked more discussion. Jason’s message warned:
“If you’ve noticed a drop in calls from your Google Business Profile, it could be because Google is currently testing the removal of the call button from organic listings while keeping it active for paid placements.”
One screenshot shows a local listing that lacks the call button entirely. Another view, possibly from a different user or interface version, shows it present. Side-by-side comparisons make the difference clear. Some users believe that the absence of the call option is unintentional and hope Google will restore it.
Gagan Ghotra also noticed this in his tests and shared a video demonstrating the behavior in action.
At this point, it’s hard to confirm whether this is simply a design oversight in the new Web Guide layout or a purposeful change. But many in the SEO community think the call button should be brought back, especially since direct calls are a vital lead channel for many local businesses.
