Apple is reportedly preparing to introduce advertisements within Apple Maps in 2026, as part of a wider plan to expand its advertising presence across its software and services.
The update will allow restaurants, retailers and other local businesses to pay for increased visibility in Maps search results, similar to how developers can promote their apps in the App Store.
According to reports, Apple intends to distinguish its Maps advertising model through a simplified interface and AI-driven personalisation, aimed at showing users the most relevant results.
The initiative is seen as part of Apple’s broader effort to integrate advertising more deeply into iOS, following previous developments in the App Store and other digital platforms.
Analysts note that as Apple incorporates more advertising into its core applications, it remains to be seen how users—who are used to a relatively ad-free experience—will respond to this change.
