Apple Business Connect is a free service offered by Apple that allows businesses to promote themselves through various Apple services such as Maps and Wallet. Launched in 2023, the service was initially limited to businesses with physical locations, such as retail stores. However, Apple has now expanded the service to include companies without a physical address, such as online-only businesses.
“We’re excited to offer all businesses — including those without a physical location — the ability to create a brand that appears across the Apple apps that over a billion people use every day,” said David Dorn, Apple’s senior director of Internet Software and Services Product.
This expansion of Apple Business Connect aims to cater to online-only firms and small home-based businesses. While these businesses may not be featured on Apple Maps, they can still benefit from the service’s promotion in Siri, Spotlight, Wallet, and other Apple apps.
One of the new features rolling out with Apple Business Connect is branded Mail and Tap to Pay. Businesses can now add their logos and branding to Apple Mail headers and display their logo and name when customers use Tap to Pay on iPhone. This feature allows businesses to enhance their branding and create a more personalized experience for their customers.
Firms can register for Apple Business Connect and add their images now. Customers will see the logos when iOS 18.2 is released before the end of 2024.
In addition to branded Mail and Tap to Pay, Apple is also introducing Business Caller ID in 2025. Currently, iPhones display only a phone number when the caller is not recognized. However, registered business users will now be able to display their logo, name, and even a specific department on the call screen. This feature will help businesses present accurate information to Apple users and build trust with their customers.
“We designed Business Connect to empower businesses to present the best, most accurate information to Apple users,” continued Dorn. “With today’s updates, we’re helping even more businesses reach customers, build trust, and grow.”
This expansion of Apple Business Connect aligns with Apple’s commitment to supporting small businesses. The company has also offered dedicated “Today at Apple” sessions for small business owners, further demonstrating their support for the business community.
Overall, Apple Business Connect’s new features and expanded eligibility criteria provide businesses with more opportunities to promote their brand and connect with customers through Apple’s popular services. Businesses of all sizes can now take advantage of this free service to enhance their online presence and reach a wider audience.
