Apple is introducing ads to Apple Maps in the US and Canada this summer as part of its new Apple Business platform. Businesses will place sponsored results at the top of search queries and within a new Suggested Places section. The company emphasizes privacy, noting location data won't link to user Apple Accounts and personal information remains on-device.

The advertising builds on Apple's existing privacy-first approach to location services. Users searching for "coffee shop" or "hardware store" will see clearly marked sponsored results. Businesses can manage their presence across Apple services through the new platform, controlling brand information, promotions, and even their appearance in Mail during Apple Pay transactions.

This represents a major revenue opportunity for Apple while helping local businesses reach customers directly. The Apple Business portal launches on April 14, with ads becoming available this summer. By integrating ad buying into its ecosystem, Apple aims to keep marketing dollars within its services while addressing privacy concerns that plague competitors.