Apple will reportedly expand the number of ad slots on the App Store in the coming months.
Earlier in the year, the company confirmed that its ad business would be expanding, confirming to developers that there would be more ad slots on the App Store to make it easier for developers to promote their products. Now, CNBC is reporting that Apple will expand its ad slots market by the end of the year, increasing its advertising revenues.
Developers have reportedly been invited to an online session discussing App Store ads, with the company confirming new “ad placements” would be coming to the iOS app “this holiday season.”
“Apps are more important than ever before – for consumers and for brands. And, with new opportunities coming to Apple Search Ads, you can promote your apps across the App Store to engage even more customers this holiday season,” the invite says.
“Join our webinar for insights to help you plan your year-end app promotion strategy. We look forward to seeing you.”
Ads aren’t new on the App Store – developers can already pay to have their apps appear in the Search tab and in search results, but the expansion will allow them to purchase slots on the Today homepage and app pages. It’s unlikely that developers will be able to target a specific app, but ads will be ‘relevant’, meaning you could see an ad for a competitor’s app.
Apple is reportedly ramping up its advertising business to boost revenue from services. Ads are also expected in other default apps in the coming months, such as Apple Maps and Stocks.
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