Following Locations on Google Maps

Clever idea.   Let places advertise to you by alerts.  Monetizes the map with change alerts for a place.  Events etc.  Now I just want Google to work on repair and maintaining other clever services, like their location sharing.  I don't think they can monetize that,  except as an attraction service for their maps, and its been  broken for a long time.  A bad indication longer range.

Now on iOS: Follow your favorite places on Google Maps in the Google Blog

Starting this week, you can stay up to date on your favorite places right from the Google Maps app on iOS. Simply search for a place—whether it’s a new restaurant that just opened up in your neighborhood or that must-try bakery across town—and tap the Follow button. You’ll then be able to see important updates from these places in your For you tab so you can quickly learn about upcoming events, offers and more.  ... "