High Volume Usage of Google Maps APIs Shall Now Be Charged
According to various sources Google that they are planning to charge internet users for usage of Google Maps APIs when the usage limit exceeds 25000 visitors. The charges shall be $4 per 1000 visitors (post the free 25000 visits).
Google Maps APIs are used by developers to embed Google Maps in their web pages. There are three ways of doing so.
- Google Maps Javascript API
- Google Maps API for Flash
- Google Static Maps API
These can be directly embedded to your website, or customized.
Now, with this basic information, let’s check how these new “Charges” for usage are going to be.
This new charging system shall be introduced in January 2012. Google explains reasons for introducing charges for this feature, which was otherwise free.
With increased use of Google Maps APIs, Google feels the need to secure it’s long term future such that when used by the highest volume sites, services remain unaffected.
Vast majority of websites still can use it free of cost, as the charges start only after you have exceeded 25000 visits.
The charges are for every 1000 visits. That’s a plus too.
However there are a lot of concerns regarding this new introduction of usage limits.
- Do the embedded maps just stop working if the usage limit is exceeded?
- Does this mean that in near future, more services will be charged?
- What constitutes a valid “Map Load”. Does the amount of user interaction with the map affect the costs?
Furthermore, the amount of interaction of a user with the embedded map on your website does not affect the charges!
That’s good to know, however for more information, Google has an entire list of FAQs, at your disposal.
I would strongly recommend that website owners using Google Maps APIs to analyze their usage and select the best fit charges for their website.
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