Apple has announced changes to its Business Connect service, now allowing businesses of all sizes and types to use the platform, including those without physical locations. The service lets verified businesses manage their appearance across Apple’s apps, which are used by over a billion people.
David Dorn, Apple’s senior director of Internet Software and Services Product, stated, “We designed Business Connect to enable businesses to present accurate information to Apple users. With today’s updates, we’re extending this capability to more businesses.”
New features in the expanded service include:
- Branded Mail: Businesses can display their name and logo in emails sent to customers through Apple’s Mail app. This feature is available for sign-up now, with logo display expected later this year.
- Tap to Pay on iPhone Logo Display: Companies can show their logo instead of a category icon when accepting payments via Tap to Pay on iPhone.
- Business Caller ID: Planned for next year, this will show a business’s name, logo, and department on incoming call screens.
These additions build on existing features introduced last year, which allowed businesses to customize their place cards in apps like Apple Maps and Wallet with photos, logos, action links, and promotions.
The expansion of Business Connect to include service providers and online-only businesses represents a change in Apple’s approach to business integration within its ecosystem. This move may affect how businesses interact with customers through Apple’s platforms and could influence digital brand management strategies.
As per Apple’s support page currently, two types of entities can use Apple Business Connect
- Company/Organization: Your company or organization. You directly manage how your brand appears to customers.
- Third-Party Partner/Agency: A data provider or data manager who works on your behalf on how your brand appears to customers.
