How to Add Your Business to Apple Maps & Why It Matters for Local SEO

Published On: February 4th, 2025Categories: How-to Guides, SEO - Search Engine OptimizationBy

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Is Your Business Invisible to iPhone Users? Here’s Why You Need to Be on Apple Maps.

Most businesses prioritize Google Maps when setting up their local SEO strategy, but Apple Maps is often overlooked. With over 1.2 billion active iPhone users worldwide, this is a missed opportunity to reach a massive audience.

Apple Maps is the default navigation app for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple CarPlay users, meaning customers searching for businesses via Siri, Safari, or Apple’s search tools rely on Apple Maps results—not Google.

If your business isn’t listed, you’re missing out on local customers who use Apple devices every day. This guide walks you through how to add your business to Apple Maps and why it’s crucial for local visibility.

apple carplay

Why Apple Maps Matters for Local Businesses

  • Default navigation for millions of iPhone users – Unlike Google Maps, Apple Maps is pre-installed on all Apple devices, making it the go-to option for many users.
  • Integrated with Siri, Safari, and Spotlight Search – Voice searches and Apple’s ecosystem pull data directly from Apple Maps.
  • Apple CarPlay reliance – Many drivers use Apple Maps exclusively for navigation in their vehicles.
  • Additional traffic source for local SEO – A well-optimized Apple Maps listing can drive more foot traffic and calls to your business.

Step-by-Step: How to Add Your Business to Apple Maps

1. Visit Apple Business Connect

Apple Maps listings are managed through Apple Business Connect, a free tool similar to Google Business Profile.

???? Go to Apple Business Connect

2. Sign in with Your Apple ID or Create One

If you don’t already have an Apple ID, create one before proceeding.

  • Pro Tip: Use a business email (e.g., info@yourbusiness.com) instead of a personal Apple ID for account management.

3. Search for Your Business

Before adding a new listing, check if Apple Maps already has your business listed:

  • If your business exists: Claim it and update the details.
  • If your business isn’t listed: Proceed with adding a new location.

4. Enter Your Business Information

Complete the required details:

  • Business Name (Ensure it matches other listings like Google Business Profile)
  • Category & Industry (Choose the most relevant option)
  • Address & Service Area (Apple allows service-area businesses like plumbers or electricians)
  • Phone Number & Website URL

  • Pro Tip: Keep your NAP (Name, Address, Phone) consistent with other directories like Google, Yelp, and Bing.

5. Verify Your Business

Apple will require verification to confirm ownership. The most common verification method is:

  • Phone verification – Apple will call the business number with a code.

  • Document upload – Some businesses may need to provide legal documents to prove ownership.

6. Optimize Your Apple Maps Business Profile

Once verified, improve your listing by:

  • Adding high-quality images (storefront, interior, products, services)

  • Writing a compelling business description with relevant keywords

  • Selecting special features (e.g., wheelchair accessibility, delivery options)

Key Insights About Apple Maps for Businesses

  • Apple Maps prioritizes user experience – Listings with high-quality images, complete details, and recent updates rank better.

  • Reviews come from third-party platforms – Unlike Google, Apple does not collect its own reviews. Instead, it pulls them from sites like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Foursquare.

  • Apple Business Connect allows business updates – You can post updates, promotions, and special announcements, similar to Google Business Profile posts.

Don’t Forget Google Maps! Improve Your Local Visibility on Both Platforms

While Apple Maps is essential for iPhone users, Google Maps is still the most widely used mapping platform worldwide.

???? Learn How to List Your Business on Google Maps Here

By optimizing both Apple and Google listings, you maximize your reach across all mobile users and navigation platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Maps Listings

Yes, listing your business on Apple Maps is completely free using Apple Business Connect.

Typically, 3-5 business days, but verification delays can extend this timeframe.

Yes, multi-location businesses can manage multiple listings within Apple Business Connect.

Expand Your Local Reach with Ad Genius

Apple Maps is an untapped opportunity for many businesses. If you’re not listed, you’re losing potential customers.

At Ad Genius, we specialize in:

  • Apple Business Connect setup & optimization

  • Google Business Profile management

  • Full local SEO strategies to increase visibility

Get listed on every platform that matters. Contact Ad Genius today and let’s optimize your local presence.

About the Author: Brett Williamson

Brett Williamson is the founder and CEO of Ad Genius, a thriving digital marketing agency in Phoenix, AZ. What began as a quest to market another business led Brett to become an "accidental agency owner" when he discovered his innate marketing talent. With over 20 years of experience in building successful businesses, he now leads Ad Genius in fostering a strong team culture and creating innovative, collaborative marketing strategies. Brett's expertise spans leadership, buyer psychology, AI development, SEO, and digital advertising. He is passionate about helping others build great businesses and sharing valuable industry insights. Outside of work, Brett is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys archery, hunting, fishing, and digital photography. His guiding principle is to "love people when they least expect it and least deserve it.