Apple is reportedly considering monetizing its maps app. According to a report, the Cupertino-based tech giant plans to replicate Google Maps’ business model and provide search ads to businesses. The company is said to have a great showcase of its customers in the search results for the MAPS app. The tech giant is reportedly exploring this option to increase revenue generation from its services. It is worth noting that the company has shown similar ads on Apple News and Stocks apps. The ad’s extension is said to support Apple’s recent entry into sports.
Apple Maps May Show Ads Soon
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said in the Newsletter that iPhone manufacturers are seriously considering increasing their advertising revenue by integrating sustainable models into map apps. Gurman cited sources who spoke on condition of anonymity that the map department recently held a “go-to-all-out” meeting to explore monetization options.
It was reported that during the meeting, executives suggested exploring search ads. The model has been used by Google for its maps platform, which the company occupies sponsored business in search results.
Apple reportedly plans to replicate this model for its maps app and provide better enterprise positioning for search results. However, for this, no timetable or active engineering work is said to be carried out.
Notably, Gurman also claimed that several years ago, Apple employees had already discussed integrating search ads into map apps. However, at that time, the discussion did not lead to any implementation.
If you implement search ads in a map application, it means that not all search results displayed are real. Typically, the tech giant is transparent about sponsorship information displayed in the app, and it is likely that businesses highlighted by search ads will be tagged to let users know.
Through this move, Apple will enter a space where Google already has a strong foothold. However, iPhone Maker provides access to millions of users using MAPS apps, which could be a lucrative claim to businesses.
Additionally, a recent report claims that Apple is seriously considering entering the robot space to make humanoid and non-human robots. These robots are said to strengthen the company’s smart home ecosystem, but are not expected to be mass-produced by 2028.
