eli5: How can Google maps know many small and recent businesses’ locations so accurately?

Question

I’ve realised that most businesses (even small kiosks) are seen on Google maps. Where and how do they get that information?

In: 2928

Answer 1

Businesses want to be on Google maps. You tell Google is your business, they mail you a letter with a code and if you enter the correct code you own the listing on Google and can reply to reviews as the owner and change the name of the business etc.