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Apple Maps Ads Near Launch as iOS 26.5 Beta 2 Adds In-App Notice

The notice signals a summer rollout built on local signals with data kept on your device.

Overview

  • Apple added a Maps popup in iOS 26.5 beta 2 on Monday that explains how ads will work and suggests rollout is close, though active ad serving in the beta is not confirmed.
  • Maps may show local ads based on your approximate location, your current search terms, or the part of the map you are viewing, and there is no opt-out.
  • Paid placements will appear at the top of search results and in a new Suggested Places section that shows business picks when you tap the search bar.
  • Each ad will carry a clear Ad label, and Apple says ad interactions are not linked to your Apple Account and are not collected, stored, or shared by Apple.
  • Apple plans a public launch this summer in the United States and Canada across iPhone, iPad, and Mac, with new Apple Business tools for advertisers opening in mid-April.