Use of google maps

is it violation of their terms?

[curioustoddler]

I read at this page [code.google.com...] " The Maps API is a free service, available for any web site that is free to consumers."

So if your site sells a product and you use google API to locate stores in different cities, is it a violation of the use of their maps API ? Becuase you are not offering anything free.
I hope this is to avoid people charging use of maps created with google api and anyone should be able to use it if site does not charge for use of maps.
I am so afraid of google that i need some assurance even before thinking of using their API for my site.

[s3rndpt]

I think they mean as long as it's free to use a site, and the site isn't something you have to pay to visit, you're okay. I know we use Google Maps for our directions directly on our site, and while we don't sell products online (yet), we do list them online and sell at our stores, so it sounds like a very similar situation.

[curioustoddler]

What if a real estate site charges for real estate listings but do not charge visitors to browse listing through maps?
They are charging for listings in their database but they are not charging visitors to view those listings on maps.
Is it a violation of google's terms?

[s3rndpt]

I'm not a lawyer, but the way I'm reading the Maps API terms and conditions is that unless you are charging people to look at the content that contains the map, you are free to use it without upgrading. I don't think the scenario you present is a violation, no. If they were to put the Google Maps API on the listings that are paid only, then yes, that would be.

[LifeinAsia]

They key part is the free to consumers part.

you use google API to locate stores in different cities

Consumers can use your site for free- no ToS violation.

What if a real estate site charges for real estate listings but do not charge visitors to browse listing through maps?

In this case, the consumers are the people coming to see the listings- no ToS violation.

You have a site that gives people directions between 2 points and displays the route on a Google map. You charge $.10/route displayed- THAT would be a ToS violation.

[curioustoddler]

Thanks a lot for your help.
These days you need to be afraid of google for anything you do and double check whether it might be against the guidelines of almighty google.