ARN

Google seeks to boost geo apps with new Maps API

The Maps Data API lets developers host geodata in Google servers.

Google has released a new API for Google Maps designed to relieve developers of the burden of maintaining their own repositories for geographical data.

The Maps Data API (application programming interface) lets developers create client-side applications that tap data hosted by Google.

"You shouldn't have to worry about maintaining a data store to build a cool Google Maps mashup. Focus on building the client, and we'll provide hosting and bandwidth for free," wrote Taj Campbell, from the Google Maps Data API team, on Wednesday.

In addition, geodata stored via the Maps Data API can be accessed via a variety of devices and platforms, and is indexed and made available in Google Maps, according to the company.

The API is an early release, as indicated by Google's decision to slap a "Labs" label on it, and the company plans to significantly expand and enhance its functionality in the future.

"In the meantime, we hope you'll get an early start in developing new applications and pushing the boundaries of the API," Campbell wrote.

Applications that can take advantage of geographical data have become increasingly popular, particularly when accessed via mobile devices.

People find them useful for discovering places when they are on the road, like nearby restaurants, which is also appealing for advertisers, which can target potential customers who are in the vicinity of their establishments.

Nominations for the 2012 ARN IT Industry Awards open on Tuesday, June 12.

More about: Google
References show all

Comments

Post new comment

The content of this field is kept private and will not be shown publicly.
Users posting comments agree to the ARN comments policy.
Login or register to link comments to your user profile, or you may also post a comment without being logged in.
Related Coverage
Related Whitepapers
Latest Stories
Community Comments
Tags: api, geolocation, Google, Google Maps
ARN Directory | Distributors relevant to this article
Aquion , Avnet Technology Solutions
rhs_login_lockGet exclusive access to ARN's news, research and invitation only events.
ARN Distributor Directory
Find distributors by name | vendor | location
Channel Deals
/deals/avg/349_protect-your-android-phones-with-avg
AVG (AU/NZ) Pty Ltd

Protect your Android Phones with AVG Mobilation

More details »
ARN Vendor Directory
Find vendors by name | category

iAsset is a channel management ecosystem that automates all major aspects of the entire sales,marketing and service process, including data tracking, integrated learning, knowledge management and product lifecycle management.