CODEWITHSUNDEEP
javascriptgoogle-maps
Dónal
Dónal

Reputation: 187499

using google maps api without a key

The instructions for v.3 of the Google Maps API say that I

should load the Maps API using an API key

Curiously it says I should..., rather than I must..... Anyhow, at the moment, I am not using an API key simply because (as far as I can remember) there was no mention of an API key when I was writing the code that calls this API.

Should I go back and add an API key to the URL that loads the API? It seems to work fine without the key, so I don't have any particular incentive to do this.

Upvotes: 1

Views: 3718

Answers (3)

jeff
jeff

Reputation: 8338

You're actually required to not have a key if you're a business user. Here's a quote from Google:

Google Maps API for Business developers must not include a key in their requests. Please refer to Loading the Google Maps JavaScript API for Business-specific instructions.

Normal users, however, will be fine with or without a key, although Google recommends having a key so you can monitor the API usage. Here is a quote verifying this:

The Google Maps JavaScript API V3 does not require a key, but there are benefits to using one.

Upvotes: 4

Marcelo
Marcelo

Reputation: 9407

You only need a key if you want to use the API management console to restrict access, collect usage statistics, etc. So, a key is recommended but not required. See Obtaining an API key

Upvotes: 2

Rolando Corratge Nieves
Rolando Corratge Nieves

Reputation: 1233

In Api version 2 a key is required to run gmap out of localhost in the API v3 a key is not required

Upvotes: 0

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