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Apple is reportedly preparing to roll out ads inside its Maps app as early as next year. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the move is part of Apple’s broader push to expand its advertising business beyond the App Store and News platforms. Apple is also expected to use artificial intelligence (AI) to make ads more relevant to users Ads In Apple Maps: How It May Work Gurman says Apple plans to let businesses -- especially restaurants and local services -- pay for better visibility when users search for nearby places. This would work similarly to how App Store Search Ads function today, where developers can pay to have their apps appear at the top of relevant search results. The iPhone maker might use use artificial intelligence (AI) to make ads more relevant to users. By analysing user preferences and behaviour, the company could show more accurate recommendations instead of random promotions. However, Gurman warned that this shift could trigger user backlash, since many people prefer an ad-free experience in essential apps like Maps. What It Means for Users and Businesses For users, the change means they may start seeing sponsored results alongside organic listings while searching for directions or restaurants. Though Apple may ensure these ads are clearly labelled, the experience could still feel different from the clean, ad-free interface people are used to. For businesses, this opens up new opportunities to reach local customers directly within Apple Maps -- something that could be especially valuable for restaurants, hotels, and service providers looking to stand out in crowded search results. A Bigger Bet On Ads Apple has been steadily building its ad network over the past few years. With millions of active Maps users worldwide, the potential for new ad revenue is huge. The company is reportedly aiming to make its ads more useful and privacy-friendly compared to rivals like Google. Still, how users respond to this change will be interesting to see. Get Latest News live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Technology Science and around the world.