What is happening to Google Maps?

Have you noticed how Google maps on many websites are not being displayed as they once were?

It would appear that Google wants to increase their huge profits by charging for a license for the privilege of using their maps.

To get information from Google we looked at their relevant website:

"Under certain circumstances, a darkened map, or 'negative' Street View image, watermarked with the text "for development purposes only", may be displayed. This behavior typically indicates issues with either an API key or billing. In order to use Google Maps Platform products, billing must be enabled on your account, and all requests must include a valid API key."

We contacted our hosting service who say that they are looking into the matter, as they already have an arrangement with Google for displaying their adverts.   It is not a case of biting the hand that feeds them, but it seems rather like it.

We hope the foregoing report explains the situation and trust that Google will act in good faith to provide what once was a long-established facility for Internet users.