Apple Maps Ads Spark Backlash: Users Flee to Google

Apple Maps has started showing ads for users in the US and Canada, sparking outrage among fans who say they'll switch to Google Maps. The ads appear as top results in search and Suggested Places, marked with a blue 'ad' label.

The introduction of ads is seen as a downgrade by Apple Maps users, who previously chose it over Google Maps for its ad-free experience. Some have taken to Reddit to express their discontent, calling the change 'a bad move' and saying there's 'no reason' to use Apple Maps anymore.

One user noted that Google Maps is more accurate and functional than Apple Maps, but acknowledged that some may prefer Apple Maps for its perceived better privacy and lower battery drain. However, with ads now present in the service, many are reconsidering their loyalty to Apple Maps.

The ads are currently limited to one per search result or Suggested Places list, and users cannot opt out of seeing them even if they're paying for Apple services like iCloud+ or Apple One.