Apple launches advertising platform for Apple Maps in US and Canada

Apple has officially opened its advertising platform for Apple Maps to eligible businesses in the United States and Canada. While users will not see ads immediately, companies can now begin reserving ad space and creating campaigns.

Sponsored content will appear in two primary locations: within the ‘Suggested Places’ section before a user performs a search, and at the top of relevant search results after a query is made. Apple stated that sponsored locations will be clearly labeled. Advertisers can use the Apple Business tool for automated experiences or the Apple Ads platform for more granular control over keywords, scheduling, and location targeting.

Apple reports that Apple Maps processes over one billion relevant business searches monthly, with approximately 50% of those searches resulting in user action. The platform's user base includes a significant demographic of Gen Z and millennials, who make up 57% of users according to the GWI Core Study. To encourage adoption, Apple is offering a limited-time promotion where eligible businesses can receive a 15% monthly statement credit on ad spending for up to one year, capped at $1,000 per month.