Summary:
1. Create a Google Cloud project
2. Go to APIs & Services → Library
3. Enable Maps SDK for Android
4. Generate and copy your API key
5. Give Locatify Access to Your Google Cloud Project (optional)
Google Cloud is Google's platform for managing technical services like your Maps API key and In-App Purchases — separate from Google Play Console, which handles your app's store listing and developer account.
1. Create a Google Cloud Project
- Connect to your business Google/Gmail account to make sure you're linking the right account.
- Open Google Cloud Console in a new tab.
- Click Select a project in the top left corner.
- Click New Project.
- Add your Project Name. You can use the name of your app to simplify the search. Letters and numbers are allowed. A Project ID will be created automatically.
- Optional: Add an Organization (your domain name or organization) and a Location (parent organization — this can be the same as your Organization Name). More info: Creating and managing projects | Resource Manager Documentation | Google Cloud.
- Click Create.
Example
- Back on the Google Cloud Platform dashboard, find your project card with the Project ID info, then click Go to project settings.
2. APIs & Services
- On the main Google Cloud left-side navigation menu, click APIs & Services, then Library.
3. Enable Maps SDK for Android
- Click Maps SDK for Android.
- Click Enable.
- At this stage, you'll be asked to enter your account and credit card details. Don't worry — you won't be charged, as upgrading to a paid plan isn't required.
4. Generate your Google Maps API key
- A pop-up window will appear showing your unique API key — a long string of letters and numbers.
- Copy the key and paste it into the CMS allocated field. Keep a copy safe for yourself.
- Make sure Enable all Google Maps APIs for this project is selected.
- Click Go to Google Maps Platform.
5. Give Locatify Access to Your Google Cloud Project (optional)
Inviting the Locatify team is optional. Your Google Cloud account is yours to manage, but feel free to invite us if you ever run into something you're unsure about or need a hand with.
Follow the steps in the following article: How to Invite Locatify to Your Google Cloud Account – Locatify