Apple Publishes Strict Rules for Ads in Apple Maps

Privacy-first policies keep ad interaction data on device, impose tight category bans, and set a single-ad format ahead of a summer rollout in the U.S. and Canada.

Overview

Apple published its Apple Advertising Services policy effective July 14, 2026, laying out the specific rules that will govern advertising in Apple Maps.
The policy bars broad home services such as plumbing, electrical, locksmiths, HVAC, pest control, roofing and general contracting from advertising on Maps.
Apple also prohibits ads for cryptocurrency ATMs and bail bonds, and says ads for medical services will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Maps will show only one ad per search, mark promoted places with a small blue halo and an 'ad' label, and keep data about ad interactions on the user’s device rather than collecting or sharing it.
Apple’s approach is more curated and restrictive than Google’s local ad model, which may lower verification burdens for Apple but limit revenue categories and change how local businesses compete for visibility.