Apple Business launches free in 200+ markets on 14 April

Apple said its new Apple Business platform will be available for free starting 14 April in more than 200 countries and regions. Apple said the service combines built-in mobile device management, business email and calendar services, and custom domain support, and will replace Apple Business Essentials, Apple Business Manager and Apple Business Connect.

Apple said Apple Business is designed to support device management, business operations and customer engagement across its services. Apple said businesses in the US and Canada will be able to buy local ads in Apple Maps over the coming months, with ads appearing during search and discovery moments; Apple added it will show only one ad in Maps search results at those times.

Apple said Apple Business will also let businesses connect with customers through Mail, Wallet and Siri. Apple said data about ads users interact with in Maps will not be associated with their Apple accounts, and the move adds advertising inventory in Maps as Apple expands recurring revenue beyond iPhone sales.