=== GeoVerse Maps – Google Maps Block for WordPress === Contributors: wpxero Tags: google maps, gutenberg, store locator, map block, local seo Requires at least: 6.0 Tested up to: 7.0 Stable tag: 1.4.0 Requires PHP: 7.4 License: GPL v2 or later License URI: https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-2.0.html Donate Link: https://wpxero.com/pricing/ Google Maps Gutenberg block for WordPress—no API key, custom markers, responsive embeds. Ideal for store locators & local SEO. == Description == **GeoVerse Maps** is a **Google Maps block for WordPress** (Block Editor / Gutenberg) that lets you embed **interactive maps** without a Google Maps API key. Use it as a **store locator**, on **contact pages**, for **real estate listings**, **restaurants**, or any site that needs **location-rich content** and **local SEO**. = Why site owners choose this plugin = * **No API key** – Add a WordPress Google Maps embed quickly; no billing console or key management. * **Gutenberg-first** – Native **map block** workflow inside the block editor. * **Local SEO friendly** – Clear location presentation for **business addresses**, branches, and service areas. * **Customizable** – Multiple **map styles**, **markers**, and layout options to match your brand. * **Responsive** – Maps scale on phones, tablets, and desktops. = Who it is for = * **Local businesses** – Offices, shops, clinics, agencies (single or **multi-location**). * **Hospitality** – Restaurants, hotels, venues with “find us” pages. * **Real estate & travel** – Property maps, neighborhood context, destination guides. * **Agencies** – Fast **client-ready map blocks** without API setup overhead. = Feature highlights = * **Google Maps**-powered maps in a **WordPress block** * **Custom markers** and **map themes / styles** * **Info windows** for hours, phone, links, and short descriptions * **Performance-minded** front-end assets (loaded when maps are used) * **Accessibility** and **mobile** usability in mind **Search tip:** If you looked for “**Google Maps Gutenberg block**,” “**WordPress map plugin no API key**,” or “**store locator block**,” GeoVerse Maps is built for that workflow. == Installation == = From the WordPress admin = 1. Go to **Plugins → Add New**. 2. Search for **GeoVerse Maps** or **GeoVerse Maps Google Maps block**. 3. Click **Install Now**, then **Activate**. = Manual upload = 1. Upload the plugin folder to `/wp-content/plugins/`. 2. Activate the plugin through the **Plugins** screen. = Add your first map = 1. Edit a post or page in the **block editor**. 2. Click **+** and search for **GeoVerse Maps** (or **map**). 3. Insert the block, set the location, style, and markers. 4. **Publish** or **Update** the page. == Frequently Asked Questions == = Do I need a Google Maps API key? = No. GeoVerse Maps is designed so you can add maps **without configuring a Google Maps API key**, which simplifies setup for many sites. = Is this a Gutenberg / block editor map plugin? = Yes. Maps are added with a **native WordPress block** in the block editor (Gutenberg). = Can I show multiple locations (store locator)? = Yes. You can use **multiple markers** for branches, listings, or pins on one map—great for **store locators** and directories. = Will maps work on mobile? = Yes. Layouts are **responsive** and intended to work well on **phones and tablets**. = Does this help with local SEO? = Maps make your **business location** easy for visitors (and search engines) to understand when paired with strong on-page content (NAP consistency, local copy, and schema where appropriate). The plugin focuses on **clear, fast map embeds**. = How does GeoVerse Maps compare to other WordPress map plugins? = Many alternatives require **API keys** or shortcodes-only setups. GeoVerse Maps emphasizes **block editor** placement, **no API key** for typical use, and **fast** integration for **local business** and **multi-location** sites. == Screenshots == 1. **Google Maps block** on the front end with a styled map and marker. 2. **Block settings** – location, zoom, and appearance in the editor. 3. **Map style presets** – switch themes to match light, dark, or branded sites. == Changelog == = 1.4.0 = * Version **1.4.0** – release packaging and **WordPress.org**-ready metadata. * **SEO-focused readme** – clearer keywords for **Google Maps block**, **Gutenberg**, **store locator**, and **local SEO** discovery. * **Plugin title** updated to **GeoVerse Maps – Google Maps Block for WordPress** for consistent branding and search clarity. * **Tested up to** WordPress **7.0**; maintenance and compatibility pass. = 1.3.2 = * Renamed plugin to "GeoVerse Maps" to comply with WordPress directory guidelines * Fixed compatibility issues with latest WordPress version * Enhanced map performance and stability * Improved user interface for better usability = 1.3.1 = * Updated plugin name to comply with WordPress guidelines * Fixed compatibility issues with latest WordPress version * Enhanced map performance and stability = 1.3.0 = * Enhanced map performance and loading speed * Improved mobile responsiveness and touch controls * Updated Google Maps integration for better compatibility * Bug fixes and stability improvements * Code optimization and security enhancements = 1.0.0 = * Initial plugin release * Core Google Maps functionality without API key requirement * Gutenberg block integration * Multiple map styles and themes * Custom marker support * Responsive design implementation * SEO optimization features == Credits == * Map experience powered by Google Maps * Built for modern WordPress (blocks, themes, and performance best practices) == Upgrade Notice == = 1.4.0 = Maintenance and **readme/metadata** update for **1.4.0**, with **SEO**-oriented listing copy and **WordPress 7.0** tested-up-to value. Safe update; no breaking changes expected. = 1.3.2 = Important update that renames the plugin to "GeoVerse Maps" to comply with WordPress directory guidelines and includes performance improvements and bug fixes. Please update as soon as possible. = 1.3.1 = Important update that changes the plugin name to comply with WordPress guidelines and improves compatibility with the latest WordPress version. Please update as soon as possible. = 1.3.0 = Latest update focuses on performance improvements, enhanced mobile experience, and better compatibility with current WordPress versions. Upgrade now for improved loading speeds and better touch controls on mobile devices.