Geotagging, as defined by the Associated Press, is adding “geographical metadata to pieces of media, social media updates or other digital content.”
Metadata is simply data that describes another piece of data. Geolocation metadata makes it possible to tag content with its location, which allows search engines, mapping apps and GPS devices to point users towards places of interest nearby.
When you tag a tweet or Instagram photo with your location, a special software interface uses latitude and longitude coordinates to specify where a photo or video was taken or allows you to “check in” to a specific geographic place, according to the AP. Google Maps, for example, uses your geotag to help target customers and potential customers when they are nearby and searching for your products and services.
To learn more, read Manta’s complete guide, “Google Maps for Small Business: Everything You Need to Know to Get Found by Customers.”
