Google Maps SDK and

alternatives
• There are so many free mapping APIs available
giving one plenty of options for creating
powerful map applications.
• Each of these free APIs has its advantaged and
dis advantages.
• You must find the one that best suits your
application needs.
 How to enable Google map SDK
• Go to the Google Maps Platform > Credentials page.
– Go to the Credentials page.
• On the Credentials page, click Create credentials >
API key.
• The API key created dialog displays your newly
created API key.
• Click Close.
• The new API key is listed on the Credentials page
under API keys.
 Mapbox

• This free API has made a name for itself in the

mapping world with its extensive customization
options, like live-updating maps and 3D rendering
capabilities.
• Their advanced data analysis features allow you to
track user activity and optimize your UX accordingly.
• It's free, highly customizable, and offers free hosting
and geocoding services.
• You need an API key to use it, and the free version
has limited features.
 Apple Maps
• Apple's free mapping service is an excellent
alternative to Google Maps for iOS users.
• It offers turn-by-turn navigation, public transit
directions, and 3D flyover views of maps in
select areas.
• It’s free and includes traffic data updates on an
hourly basis.
• The free version doesn't support custom styles
or points of interest (POIs).
 Bing Maps

• This free API from Microsoft provides detailed

aerial imagery with precise street-level detail,
making it ideal for map applications like route
optimization and real estate sites.
• It also offers free geocoding and routing services.
• The free service includes hosting, geocoding, and
route optimization.
• You need an API key to use it, and the free
version only supports basic features.
 HERE Maps

• HERE's free map API is renowned for its up-to-date maps of

over 200 countries worldwide and offers detailed coverage
of roads, points of interest (POI), public transport stops, and
more.
• Its free starter plan allows you to make up to 250 requests
per day without needing a credit card or contract.
• It’s free, easy to use, with no registration required for the
free version, and offers free geocoding and hosting services.
• The free version is limited to 250 requests per day, and the
free mapping data needs to be more detailed than other
free services.
 Open Street Map

• This free service uses crowd-sourced geographic data

from volunteers worldwide, making it one of the most
reliable free mapping APIs.
• It can be used for bike routing, creating heat maps,
mobile navigation apps, and more.
• All its features are free (no need for an API key), plus it
provides detailed street map information in dozens of
languages.
• Its database lacks certain POI types, such as hospitals
and police stations, which are available on other free
services.
 MapQuest

• This free API offers detailed maps of the US, Canada,

and Puerto Rico, plus free geocoding and routing
services.
• It can be used for creating mobile applications, map
mashups, route optimization, and more.
• The free version includes free hosting and
geocoding services.
• You need an API key to use it, and the free version
only supports basic features like street maps of US
states.
 TomTom

• TomTom's free API offers detailed maps of over

200 countries and free geocoding, routing,
traffic flow, speed limits, and points of interest
(POIs).
• It also provides free hosting services for your
app.
• It’s free and includes free hosting services.
• You need an API key to use it, and the free
version only supports basic features.
 OpenLayers

• This free API is a JavaScript library for creating

interactive maps and data visualizations. It
supports popular formats like GeoJSON, WMS,
KML, GML, and more.
• It’s free and open source, with no API key
needed. Plus, it's highly customizable.
• It’s not as easy to use as some of the other
free mapping APIs, and it doesn't offer free
hosting services.
 Esri ArcGIS

• This free API from Esri offers detailed worldwide

maps, geocoding services, address validation
services, and more.
• It also offers free hosting and geospatial data,
making it ideal for creating location-based apps and
websites.
• It’s free and includes free hosting and free
geospatial data.
• You need an API key to use it, and the free version
only supports basic features.
 GraphHopper

• GraphHopper's free API provides detailed

maps of the world and free geocoding,
routing, and route optimization services.
• It offers free hosting, geocoding, and route
optimization services.
• You need an API key to use it, and the free
version only supports basic features.