Apple Maps: Paid search ads to launch in 2026

Apple has been working for years to expand its advertising business. After ads in the App Store and Apple News, Apple Maps is next. According to a report by Mark Gurman in his newsletter "Power On," the company plans to integrate advertising into Apple Maps search starting in 2026. The goal is to create new revenue streams and expand the existing advertising platform on iOS.

Apple Maps has long been one of the core services on iPhones. Millions of people use the app daily for navigation, location searches, or route planning. However, starting next year, the user experience could change. Apple plans to introduce paid search ads in Apple Maps. Companies will then be able to pay to have their listings appear higher in search results. The plan is part of a broader strategy for Apple to expand its advertising business on iOS.

Apple plans search ads within Apple Maps

According to Gurman, Apple's internal advertising initiative is gaining momentum. The company plans to gradually integrate more advertising space into the iOS ecosystem. Apple Maps is expected to be added as another platform in 2026. The idea behind it is simple: When a user searches for a specific location or category—such as a restaurant or store—sponsored listings could be displayed at the top.

The concept is very reminiscent of advertising in the App Store. Developers can already bid on specific search terms there to increase their apps' visibility. Apple is now apparently applying this principle to Apple Maps. Gurman describes the model as "quite similar" to what already exists in the App Store. However, there will initially be no advertising on the Maps app's homepage – a difference from the App Store, where the main page also offers advertising space.

Artificial intelligence should ensure relevance

To ensure the quality of the results, Apple plans to use artificial intelligence. The AI will ensure that advertised places or services are actually relevant and useful. The goal is to integrate advertising without disrupting the user experience or cluttering the search results.

At the same time, according to Bloomberg, Apple is working on improvements to the Apple Maps user interface. The application is designed to be clearer and more intuitive. With this, Apple not only aims to optimize the design but also differentiate itself from the competition – especially Google Maps. The combination of AI-powered relevance and a redesigned interface is intended to make the new advertising feature more credible and user-friendly.

Risks to brand image

Despite the economic opportunities, the venture entails considerable risks. For years, Apple has positioned itself as a company that prioritizes privacy and user experience over aggressive advertising strategies. Some users are already dissatisfied with the increasing use of iPhones to advertise in-house services such as Apple Music, Apple TV, Fitness+, and AppleCare+. Critics accuse Apple of turning the device into a "digital billboard.".

Against this backdrop, the introduction of advertising in Apple Maps could be met with skepticism. Many iPhone users expect a premium, ad-free experience, especially on devices that can cost up to €2,000. There's a risk that the move will be perceived as a mere revenue stream rather than a product improvement. Gurman describes this risk as "significant," emphasizing that a negative consumer reaction is possible.

Launch possibly in spring 2026

A precise timeline is not yet available. However, internal information suggests that the new advertising feature could be introduced in spring 2026. It may be rolled out as part of an update—such as iOS 26.4 or iOS 26.5. Apple itself has not yet officially commented on the plans. Nevertheless, it is likely that development is already well advanced and initial tests are underway internally.

Apple Maps on the verge of change: What awaits users and businesses

Apple Maps is facing a noticeable change. The planned introduction of advertising starting in 2026 demonstrates that Apple intends to more fully exploit the potential of its own platforms. This will provide companies with new opportunities to increase their visibility, while Apple continues to expand its advertising business. Whether users will respond positively to the change remains to be seen. The decisive factor will be whether Apple can manage the balancing act between commercial interests and user-friendliness. If the integration of advertising is implemented unobtrusively and relevantly, it could work in the long term. Otherwise, there is a risk of a further step toward what many are already criticizing: an iPhone that increasingly becomes an advertising medium. (Image: Shutterstock / sdx15)