Apple Mulls Over Monetizing Apple Maps with Paid Search Ads

Apple Considering Adding Ads to Apple Maps Apple is exploring the possibility of monetizing its Maps app through advertising, a move that could further boost its growing Services revenue. The company has already expanded its ad business in the App Store and Apple News, and now it's turning its attention to Apple Maps.

Potential Monetization Strategies

• Prioritization of Search Results: Apple is considering charging businesses for higher visibility in search results within the app.
• Prominent Map Listings: Selling the ability to highlight specific locations on the map more prominently is another potential method.

Previous Considerations

This isn't the first time Apple has thought about monetizing Maps. In August 2022, it was reported that engineering work for ads in Apple Maps was underway, with an expected launch in 2023. However, this didn't materialize, and the idea is now being revisited.

Ad Business Expansion

Apple's ad business has been growing steadily, contributing around $10 billion to its Services arm in 2024. The company has also been exploring ads on Apple TV+, hiring an ad executive in 2023 to help run ads during sports events like MLS and MLB games.

Context

With Google successfully monetizing Google Maps, it's reasonable for Apple to consider similar strategies for its own maps service.