Google has announced this it is making available six new types of ads through its Google Maps API. In the past, the API offered developers only one integrated ad unit, but developers now have many more options, including link units. Google Maps continues to be one of the most popular ways for developers to add mapping capabilities to their apps, and observers say the new ad formats may make it easier to monetize those maps.
In addition, Google is adding more customization capabilities to its Google Maps ads. Developers can select “custom colors for the ad unit’s background, border, link, text and URL. This enables you to set a color scheme that complements the design of your site,” the company says.