Apple Launches Business Platform Expanding to Over 200 Countries
82Apple has announced the rollout of its new Apple Business platform, available starting today in the US and more than 200 other countries. This free service is designed to help small businesses better manage their Apple devices and services. It comes at a time when many companies are shifting to MacBooks and other Apple tech solutions.
What Apple Business Offers
Apple Business combines three existing services: Apple Business Connect, Apple Business Manager, and Apple Business Essentials. It provides managed Apple accounts that separate personal and company data, using an identity service provider. Businesses can easily set up and manage employee devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
The platform includes Mobile Device Management tools that allow businesses to configure device settings and security remotely. It also offers app deployment and management features through Blueprints and the App Store, making it easier to install and update software across multiple devices. Zero-touch hardware deployment means new devices can be set up automatically without manual configuration.
Tools for Brand and Location Management
Another key feature is brand management tools, which let businesses display their logos across Apple services like Maps, Wallet, and Mail. This helps create a consistent brand presence for customers when they interact with the company on Apple platforms.
Apple Business also introduces API-level automation options for larger businesses, enabling more advanced device and app management. For small businesses, the platform includes a fee-based AppleCare+ for Business plan, offering device protection starting at $6.99 per month per user for up to three devices.
Beyond device management, Apple Business is venturing into local advertising. Verified businesses can bid for ad placements that appear in search results or suggested locations on Apple Maps and other services. These ads can include images, special offers, contact details, and more, making local marketing more targeted and effective.
Advertising and Market Potential
This new advertising feature allows businesses to create professional online location ads using domain names, email, and calendar integrations. These ads are supported by the platform’s existing tools, helping companies attract nearby customers by highlighting their services and offers.
With over 1 billion active Apple devices worldwide, the potential reach for these ads is substantial. Apple is currently testing ads within Maps in the second beta of iOS 26.5, and while some may worry about ads cluttering the user experience, the opportunity for businesses to connect with local customers is significant.
The global location-based advertising market is expected to grow rapidly, from around $110 billion in 2023 to nearly $387 billion by 2032. Apple’s large user base and new ad tools position it well to capture a share of this expanding market, providing small businesses with a powerful way to boost visibility and engagement.
Overall, the new Apple Business platform aims to streamline device management and open up new advertising opportunities, making it a valuable tool for small and medium-sized enterprises looking to leverage Apple’s ecosystem for growth.
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