Google Maps

Many of our customers display details of the merchant on a Detail page, with a Google Map showing the location of the merchant (see Recommended UX):

Map loads on mobile can be addressed via Google Maps APIs or Google Maps SDKs.

Two basic types of map presentation are offered

• Static Maps - single image is presented

• Dynamic Maps - interactive map which can be panned and zoomed

Using Google Maps API calls

• Incurs a cost per call

• Dynamic Maps cost more than Static Maps

• Snowdrop can help model the costs.

Recommended: Using Google Maps Software Developer Kit (SDK)

• Generally speaking calls are free and unlimited if you use the SDK (both Dynamic and Static).

  • Avoid the use of a Map ID when loading the map. As per this price list: Link

• SDK automatically handles access to Google Maps servers, map display, and response to user gestures

• When using the SDK it is best practice to restrict the API key to just map Map calls. Here is a blog post.

• The SDKs are created and supported by Google but Snowdrop can assist with questions and support as well.

Further Recommendations

• Use Static Maps when only displaying the Merchant

• Use the Mobile Maps SDK if possible

Links

Google Maps SDK for Android

Google Maps SDK for iOS