Google Maps isn’t free anymore
Since its creation over 13 years ago, Google Maps has been taken for granted as a useful and free service. As of June 2018, Google announced it would start charging businesses to use Maps. The good news is all account holders get a $200 in credit every month for free usage. Many users fare well with just this credit.
How this will affect your website?
If you haven’t set up an account, your maps might not look as great as they could, especially if you were previously using customised maps. To be able to display feature-rich interactive maps, you’ll need to have an API.
Configuring Google Maps API
The first thing you’ll need to do is register your project in Google Cloud Platform Console. After that, follow these steps:
- Select or create a project.
- Click ‘continue’ to enable the API.
- Navigate to the ‘credentials’ page to get an API.
- If you’re using a Maps Javascript API, select that option under ‘API restrictions’.
- Next, add ‘HTTP referrers’ as a restriction under ‘key restrictions’ then click save.
Creating a budget for your Google Maps API
When you’re creating a budget, you’ll want to consider placing a quota on calls for embed advanced, static maps, dynamic maps, static street view, or dynamic street view. You can use this calculator to help you get a better idea about whether or not this will be necessary.
Once you’ve configured a billing account and decided on a budget, you can go into your settings and adjust your usage thresholds as needed.
Getting help
If you’re still not sure exactly what you should be doing with your Google Maps API, we’re happy to help. You can reach out to us at hello@digitalbridge.com.au or give us a call at +613 8658 2434.
Digital Bridge is a software and web development agency based in Melbourne, Fitzroy. We specialise in custom building web-based applications for Australian businesses.