With millions of active users across the globe, Apple Maps can play a helpful role in local search engine optimization (SEO) and customer engagement. However, you need to claim your Apple Business Connect before you can leverage it.
Unsure how to do that? This quick guide explains how to add your business to Apple Maps to gain new customers and strategic insights.
How To Get Your Business on Apple Maps
If you’re wondering how to add your business to Apple Maps, the process is actually quite similar to registering for Google Maps. It only takes a few steps.
1. Create an Apple ID and Log In
Apple Maps registration requires an Apple ID. This is just the account you use across all Apple services, such as Maps, iCloud, and the App Store.
To create an Apple ID, visit Apple’s sign-in page. Alternatively, you can complete the process through other Apple offerings, such as the App Store.
You’ll need some basic details, including:
- Your name
- An email address
- A secure password
- Security questions with answers you’ll remember
2. Go To Apple Business Connect
The next step to register your business with Apple Maps is to visit Apple Business Connect. This free service works similarly to a Google Business Profile.
To create your profile, navigate to the Business Connect website and log in using your ID from the previous step.
Next, read through and agree to the terms and conditions to access the dashboard.
3. Choose Your Business Type
When you first create an Apple Business Connect profile or map listing, you need to give the service some extra information so it knows how to characterize your business and list it in relevant searches. You do this by choosing an appropriate business type.
You can choose from many business types, such as health and wellness, shopping, and entertainment. Choose the primary category that best fits your company. If needed, select additional categories to cover all services you provide.
You’ll also need details such as your website URL and logo, but once everything is in order, you can register your business on Apple Maps.
4. If It Already Exists, Claim Your Listing
If your business has a prominent local SEO presence, you may already have a listing, making it quicker to get your business on Apple Maps. However, you need to claim this listing by verifying you own the business.
To do this:
- Search for your business on Apple Maps.
- Select “Claim This Place” on the existing listing.
- Follow the verification process. This typically requires a phone call, SMS, or submission of documentation.
- Review all details, such as your business address (Apple will give you the option to correct everything, just like how you can change your address on Google Maps).
5. If It Doesn’t Exist, Click “Add New Place”
Even if your Apple Maps business registration doesn’t exist, you can still create new places on Maps by selecting the option on the dashboard.
You’ll need to enter details such as:
- Business name
- Location
- Contact info
- Business category
- Business hours
You also need to complete the verification process to prove you own the business. It can take a few days for Apple to finalize this process, and Apple may also review your Maps listing to ensure it meets guidelines.
6. Set Your Location Pin
After you claim or add a new business, you can place your business on Apple Maps using a location pin. There are two ways to do this:
- Enter your address and confirm the automatic placement.
- Place the pin manually.
The easiest option is to enter your address, zoom in on the map, and ensure the placement is accurate. If it’s inaccurate, tweak it to ensure customers can find your business easily.
7. Fill In Your Business Info
Knowing how to get on Apple Maps is important, but what you do with your listing also impacts how effective it is for local SEO. In addition to details you added in previous steps, such as your website and business type, you should also consider adding info such as:
- A business description
- High-quality photos and videos
- Details about amenities (Wi-Fi, parking, etc.)
- Extra contact details
When writing longer content, such as descriptions, include appropriate keywords to maximize the local SEO benefits.
Basically, follow the Google Business Profile optimization practices we’ve laid out here.
Importance of Getting Your Business on Apple Maps
Registering for Apple Maps is easy and enables your customers to find your business when they shop locally. Plus, the service actually offers several more benefits, including:
- Reaching Apple Device Users. Apple Maps is the default map service on iPhones — a device with a market share of over 53% in the US.
- Improving Customer Engagement. Through reviews and other features, Apple Business Connect helps you engage with customers and maintain a credible brand image.
- Providing Helpful Analytics. Insights into how customers interact with your listing can help you refine marketing strategies and how you engage with customers.
Help Local Customers Find & Fall in Love With Your Business
If your business relies on foot traffic or local clientele, there’s a lot riding on the success of your local SEO strategy. Getting your campaign off to the right start and optimizing it regularly is essential. Book a free SEO consultation with Victorious, and we’ll help ensure customers find and fall in love with your business.
