In the fall of 2009, Google launched its Local Business Center, which let businesses control their Google presence by uploading photos, videos, client references, and other information to the business's profile.
Now Google has morphed the Local Business Center into Google Places and given it a tighter connection to > Place Pages.

Google Places will still allow business owners to customize the information presented on Google, and to communicate with customers and get analytic insights that inform smart business decisions.

Google Places will also introduce new features, including simpler ways to advertise, free photo shoots of the inside of your business, and much more.
To learn more about Google Places, check out the overview webinar, and the Help Center.