This is the Google Maps Platform Terms of Service, governing businesses and developers who build apps or websites using Google Maps APIs, not end consumers directly. The most important thing for developers is that they cannot cache, copy, or display Maps content outside of a Google Maps interface, cannot use the APIs to build a competing mapping service, and must obtain a separate license for asset tracking of non-Google vehicles. Developers should review the technical usage policies and data handling requirements carefully before launching any product that collects location data from end users through the Maps APIs.
This document governs the use of Google Maps Platform APIs and related services, establishing a developer/business-facing terms of service with legal basis in contract law between Google LLC and the customer entity accepting the agreement. The most significant obligations include restrictions on how Maps Platform Content may be displayed (must be on Google Maps, no caching beyond permitted periods, no asset tracking of Google-owned vehicles without consent), prohibition on creating competing products, and mandatory compliance with Google's Acceptable Use Policy and Maps Platform-specific usage policies. Notable deviations from industry standard include an unusually broad prohibition on using the services to build competitive mapping products, a requirement that all map display must use Google's own interface (no standalone extractions), and Google's unilateral right to modify or discontinue APIs with limited notice. The document implicates GDPR (where end-user location data is processed), CCPA (California-based developers and end users), and general FTC Act Section 5 consumer protection principles; material compliance considerations include the obligation to pass through Google's end-user terms and the data processing addendum requirements for handling personal data collected via Maps APIs.
(1) REGULATORY EXPOSURE: The document implicates GDPR Articles 6, 28, and 44-49 (lawful basis and data processor obligations for location data transfers), CCPA §1798.100 and §1798.140 (personal infor…
(1) REGULATORY EXPOSURE: The document implicates GDPR Articles 6, 28, and 44-49 (lawful basis and data processor obligations for location data transfers), CCPA §1798.100 and §1798.140 (personal information rights for California residents whose location data is processed via Maps APIs), FTC Act Sect…
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