Imagine, you are the owner of a small business such as a bakery, a restaurant, or a tobacconist, and without knowing it, one of the most popular navigation applications shows you as being closed. According to the numerous reactions on social networks and forums, many small entrepreneurs have experienced this mishap with Apple Plans.
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They lose money
While the native iPhone navigation app was supposed to help them attract customers and generate revenue to make a living, some estimate they lost as much as $12,000. This is the case of Mr. Pyatt, who tells his story toABC News.
We have no idea when this change was made. But we saw a sudden and drastic change in customer behavior towards the end of November and throughout December. We saw a significant drop, around $12,000. It's our livelihood.
Chris only became aware of the problem when one of his customers contacted him, concerned, to find out why he was going out of business. There are numerous reports from all sides regarding this problem. The traders cannot find a solution and are helpless.
Apple prioritizes user reviews
The reason for this anomaly would come from the fact that Apple would update the situation of the places listed in Maps not with information from professionals, but with user opinions. As reported by a reader of9to5Mac.
As a small business owner, I found it easier to correct location data errors by reporting them through Apple Maps using my personal Apple ID than through the Apple Business Connect platform using a professional account. I guess since Apple doesn't sell ads in Maps (yet), they prioritized reporting from their own customers using Apple devices over reporting from business owners. Google makes it easier for business owners to update location information through the Google Business Profile, but this is largely due to its integration into Google Ads.
Concerning Mr. Pyatt, who does not otherwise own an iPhone, he contacted Apple on the subject.The company unfortunately told him that it could not do anything for him given that he does not have a device from the brand.. He then took steps to open an Apple business account online. Which allowed him to declare the business as his own, then he marked it as open. Despite this,the situation has not been updated in Apple Plans. Curious way of acting for Cupertino.
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