This analysis describes what Google Maps's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
The updated terms establish a broader definition of activities that are subject to heightened restrictions under the Google Maps Platform Terms of Service. Previously, the definition enumerated specific high-risk categories. The revised language now encompasses any use case where service failure could reasonably be expected to result in death, serious personal injury, or severe environmental or property damage, and explicitly identifies weaponry as a restricted application. Developers and organizations using Google Maps for restricted purposes should review their use cases against the new definition to ensure continued compliance.
View change record →How other platforms handle this
the Receiving Party shall (other than to the extent prohibited by law) provide prior written notice to the Disclosing Party and reasonably cooperate...with any efforts by the Disclosing Party to contest or limit such disclosure requirement
All requests for information or documents related to potential, anticipated, or current legal proceedings, investigations, or disputes must be made using the appropriate level of legal process.
Recipient may disclose Discloser's Confidential Information: (i) to the extent that such disclosure is required by applicable law or by the order of a court...provided that...the Recipient promptly notifies the Discloser in writing of such required disclosure...
"The recipient and its Affiliates may disclose Confidential Information to the extent required by applicable Legal Process; provided that the recipient or its Affiliates use commercially reasonable efforts to: (a) promptly notify the other party before any such disclosure...Excerpt from Google Maps's Platform Terms of Service
Get the research letter
Companies change their terms quietly. We read every version and catch what actually changed. One email a week on the changes that matter and what they mean.
The clause states: “The recipient and its Affiliates may disclose Confidential Information to the extent required by applicable Legal Process; provided that the recipient or its Affiliates use commercially reasonable efforts to: (a) promptly notify the other party before any such disclosure...”
ConductAtlas has identified this type of provision across 272 platforms. See the full comparison.
No. ConductAtlas is an independent monitoring service. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Google Maps.