Google tests two rows of buttons in the mobile local panel

Google is testing two rows of action buttons in the local panel on mobile search. Barry Schwartz reported it at Search Engine Roundtable on 29 September 2026. Khushal Bherwani spotted it and posted a screenshot on X.

What is Google testing?#

The local panel is the business panel shown for a local search, and its action buttons are the shortcuts under the business name. In this test the buttons sit in two rows. Schwartz compared it with what he sees himself, a single row you scroll from left to right and back.

Has this layout changed before?#

Yes. Google has tried several layouts. In April 2026 Schwartz reported a test that showed a limited set of primary buttons and put the rest behind a numbered show more button. Syed M. Amir Hassan described it on X as a few primary actions upfront with the rest under an expandable ”+” option. Colan Nielsen asked whether Google was removing the call button on organic results to push people towards the call buttons on ads. That was a reaction, and not a finding.

Has Google confirmed it?#

The report mentions no Google confirmation, rollout scope or timeline. It is a test seen by one person, so it may change or disappear. Schwartz assumes the two rows get the most action, which is his guess and not data.

What does it mean for local SEO?#

Nothing measurable yet. If more buttons show at once, the actions a business enables, such as call or directions, are likelier to be visible without a tap. Treat that as a possibility, because the source gives no click data.

What you can control is the same as before. Keep the Business Profile complete and accurate, since the panel draws on it. Google is also testing a faster way to set Business Profile hours.