Google Geochart License Ambiguity
Peter Neally
By using this API, you consent to be bound by these terms in addition to the Google APIs Terms of Service ("API ToS") at https://developers.google.com/terms.
- Which says nothing about having to have free, public accessibility.
But specifically the Visualization: GeoChart (In the google charts gallery) requires a maps API key (even for static maps). Following down the rabbit hole to the maps terms of service
Google Maps JavaScript API Usage Limits
§9.1.1.1 - Free access (no fees). Subject to Section 9.1.2 (Exceptions), your Maps API Implementation must be accessible to the general public without charge and must not require a fee-based subscription or other fee-based restricted access. This rule applies to Your Content and any other content in your Maps API Implementation, whether Your Content or the other content exists now or is added later.
- Public access (no firewall). Your Maps API Implementation must not operate (i) only behind a firewall; or (ii) only on an internal network (except during the development and testing phase); or (iii) in a closed community (for example, through invitation-only access).
- Free access (no fees). Subject to Section 9.1.2 (Exceptions), your Maps API Implementation must be accessible to the general public without charge and must not require a fee-based subscription or other fee-based restricted access. This rule applies to Your Content and any other content in your Maps API Implementation, whether Your Content or the other content exists now or is added later.
- Public access (no firewall). Your Maps API Implementation must not operate (i) only behind a firewall; or (ii) only on an internal network (except during the development and testing phase); or (iii) in a closed community (for example, through invitation-only access).
If I want to use the GeoChart Visualization on a publicly inaccessible site does the license fall under the google charts or maps terms? Do I need to have a premium license for this chart? (or any other chart?)
There is no warning anywhere near the GeoChart page but the maps page seems to say otherwise. Some clarity would be very much appreciated.
I'm going to caution on the safe side and assume it does require a premium license until I hear otherwise but if this is the case, I would say a link to these terms or some warning on the GeoChart page would be helpful.
Thanks in advance.