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

others are quite right that both business owners and community users can update that info.

I would like to add that local landline phone company has Yellow Pages directory, which google can get (maybe for a fee), and businesses generally do want to be listed in it. So even if users are not providing info, there is a way.