Apple May Bring Search Ads to Apple Maps Starting 2026

Apple is reportedly preparing to introduce search ads in Apple Maps as soon as next year, according to Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter via Bloomberg. The move is part of Apple’s ongoing plan to expand its advertising business across iOS.

Businesses Could Pay for Top Spots in Maps Search

As per the report, Apple is developing a system that will allow local businesses, such as restaurants, stores, and service providers, to pay for better visibility in Apple Maps search results. For example, if someone searches for “pizza near me,” a promoted pizzeria could appear above regular listings, similar to how ads work on Google Maps.

Gurman compared this system to the App Store’s Search Ads, where developers bid on specific keywords to get their apps featured more prominently. While Apple doesn’t plan to place ads on the Maps homepage for now, the company is expected to test paid search placements sometime in 2026.

Apple Will Use AI to Make Ads More Relevant

Bloomberg notes that Apple will rely heavily on AI-based ranking to ensure search results and ad placements feel relevant and useful, not intrusive. The company reportedly aims to create a cleaner interface than Google Maps and make promoted results blend naturally with organic ones.

For users, this could mean smarter recommendations based on location and intent. For example, someone looking for coffee shops might see an AI-curated mix of popular and sponsored cafes that match their preferences.

Also Read: Meta Will Use Your AI Chats To Sell Ads

Risk of Backlash from Users

However, Gurman warns of potential consumer backlash. Some users already feel Apple is turning the iPhone into what he calls a “digital billboard” with ads in services like Apple News, Apple TV, Apple Music, and Fitness+. Introducing ads in a core app like Maps, used daily by millions, could spark criticism, especially given the premium price of Apple devices.

Still, Apple appears confident that a carefully implemented system, powered by AI and clean design, can balance business promotion with user experience. While there’s no confirmed release date, Gurman suggests it could appear in iOS 26.4 or iOS 26.5, likely in the spring of 2026.