The tech giant has launched a new tool called Apple Business Connect, which allows any firm to customize their location cards in apps like Maps, Messages, Siri and Wallet, for free. This means that businesses can now add their own imagery and invite actions in other apps like booking a restaurant through OpenTable or showcasing the latest promos.
Apple will verify businesses before giving them control over a location card, but all businesses have to do is use an Apple ID to sign up. The tool is available worldwide, although showcases will only be available in the US at first but will reach other countries in the coming months.
This move by Apple comes as they are rumoured to be looking for ways to profit from Maps. The company is reportedly preparing to bring search ads to Maps as soon as this year. If that’s true, custom store info could help Apple’s bottom line – a business might be more likely to pay for ads if they know it will lead to more sales.
Whatever Apple’s motivations may be, the custom cards promise to improve the Maps experience for everyday users. You’ll now see more accurate and polished info for local businesses and have an easier time with everyday tasks like booking a hotel or ordering groceries. It may also be more helpful when you share locations with friends in Messages. Apple was arguably overdue on this front (businesses have had control over their Google Maps profiles for years), but you’ll definitely notice the difference.
