This document lists requirements for applications developed with the Navigation SDK for Android.
Acceptable customer implementation use
The Navigation SDK for Android is designed for providing drivers with real-time turn-by-turn navigation in a mobile application. The data generated by the API may also be used in other applications to share information related to driver status and for general tracking of driver locations.
Disallowed customer implementation
The Navigation SDK for Android is allowed only for commercial applications. The Navigation SDK for Android is not allowed for the following categories of use cases without express prior written consent from Google:
- Navigation applications that use the Navigation SDK for Android to create a product or service with features that are substantially similar to or that re-create the features of Google Maps for mobile.
- Use of the Service in devices embedded in a vehicle or in portable navigation devices. For example, in an application that (i) is embedded in an in-dashboard automotive infotainment system or (ii) is part of an in-car mounted GPS unit. You may project an application to display on an in-dashboard automotive infotainment system and allow drivers to interact with such projected in-dashboard automotive infotainment system as with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.
- Heavy Vehicle routing or navigation, such as for buses, trucks, or vehicles with road restrictions, unless the Services explicitly specify supporting heavy vehicle navigation.
The Google map and logos
You may use only a Google-provided map in your implementation of the Navigation SDK for Android. No other map is permitted.
You may not remove, modify, or obscure any Google logos provided as part of the Navigation SDK for Android services.
Acceptable modifications to the Navigation UI
The Navigation SDK for Android enables certain UI customizations, such as adding custom markers, changing the size and content of the header and footer surrounding the navigation viewport, or changing the size of the navigation viewport itself. In some situations, you might also want to overlay content on top of the active navigation screen.
When doing so, you may not introduce modifications that inhibit safe use by drivers. For example, the following changes can negatively impact driver safety and must be avoided:
- Showing distracting animations during active navigation.
- Showing overlays on the navigation screen without explicit driver action.
- Positioning overlays on the active navigation screen that hide the driver's current location or permanently block important navigation information. This includes upcoming turns, lane guidance, compass orientation, and all standard UI elements in the navigation experience.
Other implementation requirements
- You may not modify the Navigation SDK in-product terms without the prior written consent from Google.
- Your app must display to your end users the following information upon their
first usage of the app:
- The Navigation SDK terms of use.
- End users should always exercise independent judgment when using navigation, as information from the Navigation SDK Service may differ from actual real-time conditions.
- End users are solely responsible for costs incurred when following the directions provided by the Navigation SDK service, such as for toll fees or high occupancy vehicle lanes.