Filed under: Developer, Web services, Google
Google to charge for use of AdWords API
In a move that's garnering the ire
of many developers, Google has announced that beginning July 1, 2006, use of the AdWords API will no
longer be free. The AdWords API lets third-party developers create apps that interact directly with the AdWords
server. According to the new terms of service, the
previous free quota-based system will be replaced by a usage fee structure in which $0.25 buys 1,000 "quota
units." Different API functions cost different unit amounts, most in the 10-50 range. Unsurprisingly, AdWords API
users are up in arms over the new fee structure. Over at Google Groups user goran77 wrote "Correct me if I am
wrong, but I heard that [Google's] Adwords Editor does not consume quota, which means it's usage will not cost (in
terms of quota). Now, if usage of my program uses 1.000.000 per month (250$) or even more for heavy users, how can I
compete with Adwords Editor?" Another developer complains that the same service that currently costs him nothing
will, come July, cost $6,250 per month, effectively putting him out of business. Like them, I think this is a daft move
on Google's part. AdSense is Google's cash cow and every third-party tool that makes it easier for advertisers to use is
another chunk of change for Google. Charging developers to make those tools (and advertisers to use them) will serve
only to scare them off.
So, just how good at time waster games are you? Think you've got the stuff? Well, The World's Hardest Game 2.0 doesn't think you do.
Yes, amazingly, it's possible to have a sequel to a game called "The World's Hardest Game". It doesn't seem logically possible, since if the first one was actually the world's hardest, how could another one come along and share the moniker? It made me doubt the name in the first place. That is, until I tried the game.
The mechanics of the game are very simple. You are a small red square, ...
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Kathy said 11:01PM on 5-13-2006
I use API n make calls, and changing on API calls ? I don't think this is bold move on google's part. It is trying to take control(monopolize) of the Ad Business. And this move will effect the small business holders like me, as the biggies can effort to withstand situations like this. But,...... ?????
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