Google to launch new Maps Platform API service on June 11th
Google has just announced Google Maps Platform. This is not something new but rather a consolidation of their 18 APIs into 3 categories – maps, routes, and places. Perhaps the most worrisome aspect is the fact that they have merged their standard (free) and premium plans into one. How exactly? Users will get a $200 credit for free applied towards API usage. They claim that 98% of current users will not be affected and continue using the service for free. However, in their announcement post it is stated that billing must be set up before the credit can be awarded. This is nerve-wracking. No one wants to attach a credit card to a Google service they expect for free.
