Apple Business Connect is a new tool that enables businesses to claim their location place cards in Apple Maps, Messages, Wallet, Siri and other apps.
It debuted Wednesday, and owners of businesses of all sizes can now customize their place cards.
Control how iPhone users see your company with Apple Business Connect
Place cards aren’t a new thing. Search for a restaurant, store, etc. in Apple Maps and the result is the business’ Maps place card. The new tool lets proprietors customize these, while only Apple could edit them before.
“Apple Business Connect gives every business owner the tools they need to connect with customers more directly, and take more control over the way billions of people see and engage with their products and services every day ,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s SVP of Services, in a statement.
Business owners can now add or update photos and logos on the place card, or suggest customers order food or make a reservation directly from the card.
Cards can can also include special promotions. Showcases, a new feature in the place card, can present customers with product discounts, seasonal menu items and more.
Claim your company’s place card
Starting January 11, proprietors can use their Apple ID to register for Business Connect on the Apple website. They’ll have to verify that they are the business owner before making any edits.
All of this is free, but the tool currently supports only Macs. It’s not yet available for iPad or iPhone.
The tool includes an API so companies with many locations can edit them via listing management agencies such as Reputation, Rio SEO, SOCi, Uberall and Yext.
