Overview
- The reporting stems from Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter, and Apple has not confirmed the plan or a firm launch date.
- Businesses such as restaurants and local services would be able to buy promoted positions within Maps search results, similar to App Store Search Ads.
- At launch, placements are reportedly limited to search results rather than the Maps home screen, with clear labeling expected.
- Apple intends to use its ranking systems and AI to prioritize useful, relevant listings and to present a cleaner interface than rivals like Google Maps.
- The initiative is described as part of a broader push to grow Apple’s advertising revenue on iOS, though observers warn it could prompt consumer backlash.