Apple Business Connect (Apple Maps)

Apple Maps is Apple’s mapping and local search platform, built into iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple Watch, and now available on the web. Local businesses appear as place cards that show the business name, address, contact details, hours, photos, and customer ratings.

Apple Business Connect is Apple’s self-service tool for business owners to claim, create, and manage their Apple Maps place cards. By keeping your place card complete and accurate, you can:

  • Reach millions of Apple users who search for nearby places in Apple Maps
  • Ensure your address, hours, and contact info are correct across Apple apps
  • Showcase photos, highlights, and actions such as calls, directions, and website visits

For local SEO, Apple Maps is an increasingly important citation and discovery channel, especially in areas with a high percentage of Apple device users. Every local business should claim and optimize its Apple Maps listing through Apple Business Connect.

For Existing Listings...

Before you start

Have these basics ready:

  • An Apple ID to use for managing the business
  • Official business name, address, and phone number
  • Website URL and business category
  • Access to official documents or phone numbers for verification

Step 1: Check if your business already appears in Apple Maps

  1. Go to https://maps.apple.com in a supported browser, or open the Maps app on an Apple device.
  2. Search for your business name and city.
  3. Click or tap your business result to open its place card.

Step 2: Start the claim process in Apple Business Connect

  1. Open a new tab and go to https://businessconnect.apple.com.
  2. Sign in with your Apple ID, or create a new Apple ID if you don’t have one.
  3. Follow the prompts to set up your business account (brand) in Apple Business Connect.

Step 3: Search for your existing location

  1. Within Apple Business Connect, search for your business by name and address.
  2. Select your existing listing when you see it in the search results.

Step 4: Verify that you are the owner or authorized representative

  1. Apple will guide you through verification steps, which may include:
    • Providing official business documents
    • Verifying via business phone number or email
    • Confirming that you are authorized to manage the location
  2. Submit any required information and wait for Apple to approve your claim.

Step 5: Access and update your place card

  1. After your claim is approved, log back in to Apple Business Connect.
  2. Select your location and review all existing information.
  3. Update your name, address, phone, website, hours, categories, and other details as needed.
  4. Add photos, logos, and other content to improve the appearance of your Apple Maps place card.

For New Listings...

Use these steps if your business is not yet listed on Apple Maps.

Step 1: Confirm that your business does not already exist

  1. Go to https://maps.apple.com or open the Maps app.
  2. Search for your business name and address.
  3. If you do not see your business, you can proceed with creating a new place card.

Step 2: Sign in to Apple Business Connect

  1. Visit https://businessconnect.apple.com.
  2. Sign in with your Apple ID or create a new Apple ID.
  3. Follow the prompts to set up your business (brand) profile.

Step 3: Add a new location

  1. In Apple Business Connect, choose the option to add a new location or place card.
  2. Enter your business name, address, phone number, website URL, and category.
  3. Specify whether it is a physical storefront, office, or a service-area business.

Step 4: Provide business details

  1. Add business hours and any relevant attributes (such as parking, accessibility, or other features Apple offers for your category).
  2. Upload a logo and a few clear photos that represent your location and services.

Step 5: Verify your new place card

  1. Follow Apple’s verification instructions. This may include uploading documents, confirming via phone, or other methods.
  2. Submit the information and wait for Apple to review and approve your listing.
  3. Once approved, your business will appear on Apple Maps and you can continue to manage it through Apple Business Connect.

Citation Optimization

How to Optimize Your Apple Maps Listing

1. Ensure accurate NAP and categories

  • Make sure your business name, address, and phone number exactly match your website and other major citations.
  • Select a primary category that best describes your business and only add additional categories when they truly apply.

2. Complete all core details

  • Set correct business hours, including special or holiday hours when relevant.
  • Add your website URL and, if possible, a location-specific landing page for multi-location businesses.

3. Add high-quality visuals

  • Upload a clear logo and a strong cover photo for your place card.
  • Add interior, exterior, and product or service photos that help customers recognize your location and understand what you offer.

4. Use descriptions and highlights effectively

  • Write a concise description that states what you do, who you serve, and why customers should choose you.
  • Highlight key services, specialties, or amenities that matter most to your target audience.

5. Keep information up to date

  • Log in periodically to Apple Business Connect to confirm your hours, contact info, and other details are still accurate.
  • Update your photos and description when you renovate, rebrand, or add new services.