Apple Maps is set to introduce ads, according to Bloomberg. This change is expected later this year, with an announcement possibly coming soon. Ads may begin appearing in the iOS Maps app this summer. Companies will bid to promote their businesses through relevant searches, displaying ads for restaurants, bars, and stores as top results. This could become a solid revenue source for Apple, similar to Google and Bing Maps’ ad models.
Reports of ads in Apple Maps have circulated for a while. A previous report indicated Apple’s consideration of this plan. Apple’s navigation app has improved with features like consumer outlet integrations and enhanced traffic data. The impact of ads on Apple’s privacy features and location history is yet unclear, but the upcoming announcement may provide more information.