Businesses can use a new free tool to customize their so-called local map and other information in Apple Maps and other Apple apps. The tool, called Apple Business Connect, is aimed at companies of all sizes, the US company said. The data also plays a role in messages, wallet, Siri and other apps.
Business listings in map apps are becoming increasingly important as users want the quickest way to find the location and other information about a business. Apple’s competitor Google also offers such information in its Maps service, in addition to other features such as visitor frequency.
“Showcase” first in the USA
Business Connect is not only beneficial for the companies, but also for Apple, since the Californians get more accurate information in their service: “We developed Business Connect to give Apple users around the world the most accurate information about restaurants, shopping, travel destinations and more,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of services.
The tool’s capabilities include adding and updating photos and logos, inviting customers to take actions like ordering food or making reservations directly in Maps, and notifying them of special offers. Some functions such as the “Showcase” area are initially only available in the USA and are to be rolled out worldwide in the coming months.
How to register
For use of Business Connect an Apple ID is required. Once a business has signed up and Apple has verified the business, they can claim their locations and begin updating and personalizing their place map. At the moment this is free. Apple has not commented on whether advertising should also be possible in the future. For companies with many locations, Business Connect includes the Business Connect API, which can be used to push information to Maps through listing management agencies such as Reputation, Rio SEO, SOCi, Uberall and Yext.
(mki)
