Generating Google map Release API Key

Question

My app uses Google Maps, I signed up for a Google Maps key to debug, it worked. But now, I need a Google Maps key in release mode, before publishing. How can I get it?

Answer 1

You need to :

1. Create your own signing key that you will use for publishing, using Keytool : http://developer.android.com/guide/publishing/app-signing.html#cert

2. Get the MD5 fingerprint of your newly generated key : https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/android/mapkey#getfingerprint

3. Submit the signature to this link to get your Google Maps key : https://developers.google.com/android/maps-api-signup?hl=fr

4. Export your application with your newly created key, in Eclipse : right click on your projet -> Android Tools -> Export signed application package.

Be careful to keep your certificate in a safe place, because you will need it if you want to publish an update of your app on Google Play.

EDIT :

For the Google Maps Android V2, the signing is a little different. You will need to get the SHA-1 signature and provide the package name of your application as well. A Google APi account is moreover needed. All info are given on this page : https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/android/start?hl=fr#the_google_maps_api_key