Application Programming Interface (API)
In computer programming, an application programming interface (API) is a set of subroutine definitions, protocols, and tools for building software. In general terms, it is a set of clearly defined methods of communication between various components.
Application programming interfaces make it easier for developers to use certain technologies in building applications. An API simplifies programming.
What is Google Maps API
The Maps JavaScript API lets you customize maps with own content and imagery for display on web pages and mobile devices.
The Maps JavaScript API features four basic map types (roadmap, satellite, hybrid, and terrain) which you can modify using layers and styles, controls and events, and various services and libraries.
How it works
How could be used it by a business
Is a system that allows business programming routines which can be used to build application software for a web browser or for mobile.
The API of the Google Maps system allows the owners of a webpage, the possibility of adding Google Maps to their personal web page. This can be achieved by adding, for example: Static maps API, Places API or Google Earth API.
- Static maps API: lets you embed the Google Maps image on your web page without requiring JavaScript or any dynamic page loading.
- Places API: is a service that returns information about sites, defined within this API as establishments, geographic locations or important points of interest, through the use of HTTP requests.
Another very beneficial feature for a web page developers, is that by means of API you can create customized maps in which they themselves decide which content will be included and the images selected to their liking. Modifications carried out using different styles