Google has introduced the Places API (New): an improved version of the existing Places API. This new version offers faster performance, a new pricing structure, and several important changes in how locations are searched and displayed.
If your app still uses the old Places API, now is the perfect time to upgrade. In this blog, we’ll explain what’s changing and why it matters.
What’s Improved in the New Places API?
1. The New Standard for the Future
Practical
Google has designated the new Places API as the standard and will gradually phase out the older versions. This means that the old APIs, including the Autocomplete API, Place Details API, and Nearby Search API, will no longer be supported or updated.
These older APIs will receive the status ‘Legacy services’, meaning they won’t be available for new projects. Because of this, Google strongly recommends migrating to the new API.
Financial
The new API offers volume discounts, whereas the old APIs will no longer fully support these discounts. This means that the more you use the new Places API, the lower your cost per request will be. However, with the old API, volume discounts stop applying after a certain usage level is reached.
So, both practically and financially, the new Places API is the better choice.
2. More Flexibility in Data Retrieval
With the new Places API, you can specify exactly which data you want using FieldMasks. This prevents unnecessary data retrieval, resulting in faster processing and lower costs.
Thanks to FieldMasks, you no longer need separate Autocomplete requests when retrieving data using the Autocomplete, Nearby Search, or Text Search APIs. With just one request, you can now fetch all the necessary information about a place.
3. More Comprehensive Place Data
The new Places API provides more information than ever before. Previously, you could retrieve place names, addresses, coordinates, and reviews. Now, you can also access information such as Electric vehicle (EV) information (Like connector types and charging station availability), wheelchair accessibility,Payment options, Parking options and more. Google plans to continuously expand the available data, meaning even more details will be included in the future.
4. AI Integration
In a previous blog, we discussed the capabilities of Gemini. Now, Google offers the possibility to integrate Gemini with the new Places API. While this feature is still in its early stages, it is expected to become a new industry standard.
Want to see how this works? Check out Google’s demo.
What Changes When You Migrate?
- New Authentication Options
You can now authenticate using either API keys or OAuth tokens to access the API. - JSON-Only Responses
The new API no longer supports XML—only JSON responses are available. This is the standard format for most modern applications. - Enhanced Search Functionality
The new Nearby Search and Text Search APIs now return complete place details, eliminating the need for separate Place Details requests. - Future-Proof Technology
The new APIs will receive continuous support and updates, including AI-powered enhancements, making them technologically future-ready.
Conclusion: Why Migrate to the New Places API?
The new Places API brings significant improvements over the old version. The key benefits:
✔ The new standard: The old Places API is being phased out and marked as a legacy service, meaning it will no longer be updated or available for new projects.
✔ Cost benefits: The new API offers volume discounts, whereas these disappear in the old version after a certain usage level.
✔ More flexibility: With FieldMasks, you choose the data you retrieve, resulting in faster processing and lower costs.
✔ Expanded place data: Get extra information, including EV charging stations, accessibility details, parking options, and payment methods.
✔ Future-proof technology: JSON-only responses, improved search functionality, and advanced authentication options make for a modern and efficient implementation.
Still using the old Places API? Now is the time to upgrade and make your application faster, smarter, and more efficient!
Important
Want to avoid unexpected charges? Start using the new API at the start of a new month to maximize volume discounts.
Interested in the new pricing structure? Check out this page. Want to get started right away? Check out the official documentation and learn how to implement the new Places API!
