Apple Confirms Plans to Integrate Ads Into Maps App
CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA - Apple is moving forward wiht plans to introduce advertising into its Maps application, according to a report by Bloomberg today, October 23, 2025. The company intends to offer businesses the opportunity to pay for prominent placement within search results, marking a significant shift for a service long considered ad-free.
The initiative, internally dubbed “Placelists,” will allow local businesses to purchase prominent spots in Maps search results, appearing at the top of relevant searches. Businesses can also sponsor specific search terms.Apple has been exploring advertising opportunities within its services for some time, seeking new revenue streams as growth in hardware sales slows.
While details remain limited, the programme is expected to launch in the U.S. initially, with potential expansion to othre markets. apple reportedly began developing the advertising system in 2022, initially aiming for a 2024 launch, but faced internal challenges and delays. The project has seen personnel shifts and strategic adjustments as Apple navigated concerns about user experience and maintaining the privacy-focused image of its services.
The move follows apple’s existing advertising programs within the App Store and apple News. Revenue from these sources has grown substantially in recent years, and the company is now looking to leverage the large user base of Maps – boasting over 100 million weekly active users – to further diversify its income.
Apple has not yet publicly commented on the specific pricing structure for “placelists,” but sources indicate the company is aiming for a revenue target of at least $2 billion annually from the Maps advertising program.The rollout is expected to be gradual,with Apple closely monitoring user feedback and performance metrics.
