Google Photos

API

API for integrating Google Photos into apps and devices

Overview

The Google Photos API is a RESTful interface enabling developers to integrate Google Photos' media management into applications or devices. It returns JSON responses and includes endpoints for accessing media items (photos/videos), managing albums, sharing content, uploading media, and retrieving metadata. It requires OAuth 2.0 authentication for secure user data access. Use cases include syncing user photos, creating custom albums, sharing media links, embedding photos in apps, or building backup tools that interact with a user’s Google Photos library.

Example Integration (JavaScript)

script.js JS


fetch('https://developers.google.com/photos')
  .then(res => res.json())
  .then(data => console.log(data))
  .catch(err => console.error(err));

Key Features

RESTful API
JSON Response Format
OAuth 2.0 Authentication
Media Item & Album Management
Upload/Retrieve Media
Sharing Endpoints

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Google Photos API free to use?

The API offers free usage within specified quota limits for non-commercial purposes. Commercial use or exceeding quota may require paid plans via Google Cloud.

? Does it require an API Key?

No—authentication uses OAuth 2.0 to access user-specific data, ensuring secure authorization for a user’s Google Photos library.

? What is the response format?

All responses from the Google Photos API are in JSON format, simplifying parsing and integration into most applications.

Top Alternatives

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Tool Info

Pricing Freemium

Category Photography

Platform Public API

Pros

⊕ Seamless Google Ecosystem Integration
⊕ Robust Media Management Features
⊕ Well-Documented with Examples
⊕ Supports High-Resolution Media

Cons

⊖ Requires OAuth 2.0 (Complex for New Devs)
⊖ Quota Limits on API Calls
⊖ Commercial Usage May Incur Costs
⊖ Limited to Google Photos Ecosystem