Google+ updated with Page & Profile improvements & local reviews tab

Yes, that’s right! Google+ Cover photos just got bigger. This was part of an update that Google started rolling out today. Other changes included a new “Local reviews” tab and redesigned “About” page. These updates will enhance the look and feel of the profiles. The change applies to Google+ user profiles as well as business pages profiles. Now you can set a bigger picture as your profile cover. Here is the message that I saw appearing on my profile page today:

These updates were announced by Sara McKinley, Google+ Product Manager, on her G+. She said:

– A new tab for your Local reviews. In addition to your photos, +1’s and YouTube videos, there’s now a place for all your Local reviews. Highlight your favorite restaurants, or hide the tab completely via settings — it’s completely up to you.

– An easier way to edit your info. The ‘About’ tab now consists of separate cards (like Story, Places, and Links) — each with its own prominent edit link. As always: you can share specific fields with specific circles, or keep them just for you.

– Bigger cover photos, with a better aspect ratio. Cover photos are much larger than before (up to 2120px by 1192px), and they display in 16×9 when fully expanded. This way more images can be used as cover photos, and there’s more room for your selection to shine.

So the new Google+ Cover Dimensions are 2120px by 1192px. So, if you are trying to create a custom Google+ cover photo for yourself, keep that in mind. Also, these changes are currently rolling out and may not appear immediately.