Connects businesses with nearby customers through the world's most-used mapping platform, delivering high-intent local advertising at the moment consumers are searching for places and services.
Last updated Feb 18, 2026 by AI Enrichment
Market leader in digital mapping and location-based advertising globally
Google Maps is Google's web mapping platform and consumer application that provides satellite imagery, street maps, real-time traffic conditions, and route planning. Launched in 2005, it has become the world's most widely used navigation and mapping service with over 1 billion monthly active users. Within the AdTech ecosystem, Google Maps serves as a critical local advertising platform, enabling businesses to reach consumers through location-based advertising products including Local Search Ads, Promoted Pins, and Google Business Profile listings that appear in map searches and navigation results. As part of Google's broader advertising ecosystem, Google Maps integrates with Google Ads to deliver location-based advertising solutions that connect businesses with nearby customers at high-intent moments. The platform generates revenue primarily through advertising products that allow businesses to increase visibility in local search results and on the map interface itself. Google Maps also provides APIs and enterprise solutions through Google Maps Platform, which powers location services for countless third-party applications and websites, creating additional revenue streams beyond direct advertising. Google Maps holds a dominant market position in digital mapping and location-based advertising, competing with Apple Maps, Waze (also owned by Google), and other navigation services. Its extensive data collection, Street View imagery, real-time traffic information, and integration with Google's search advertising infrastructure make it an essential component of local and mobile advertising strategies for businesses of all sizes.
Promoted business listings that appear in Google Maps search results with a purple 'Ad' label
Branded map markers that highlight business locations directly on the map interface
Free business listings that appear in Maps and Search with options for paid promotion
APIs and SDKs for embedding maps, geocoding, and location services in third-party applications
Lead generation ads for service businesses with Google Guarantee badge
Automated campaign type optimized for driving physical store visits