Apple · Canada · Google · Engadget
Apple has banned home service content on upcoming Maps ads
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The company may be trying to save ad space for local businesses.
Key facts
- In 2022, Apple announced a major update to its App Store advertising business, expanding ads out of App Store search and into app pages and Today, the App Store's home screen
- The company announced plans to introduce ads to its maps app in March 2026, but hasn't shared an exact timeline for the launch other than this summer in the US and Canada
- The ad guidelines include several rules around prohibited content that are similar to Apple's App Review guidelines
- People rely on Apple Maps to explore new places and try new things
Summary
Apple may try to focus ads in Apple Maps on local businesses and points of interest, based on new advertising guidelines the company published this week. The ad guidelines include several rules around prohibited content that are similar to Apple's App Review guidelines. "Ad content that contains or directly or indirectly promotes home services, including but not limited to plumbing, electrical, locksmith, HVAC, pest control, roofing, or general contracting services, is prohibited," Apple writes. It's not uncommon to see ads for local electricians or plumbers on Google Maps, but Apple is apparently trying to cultivate a different experience on Maps.