TL;DR: Combine PowerApps’
Location()function with a Google Maps API key to embed interactive maps and GPS services, no premium Power Platform license needed.
💡 Challenge
Integrating Google Maps into PowerApps is a great way to enhance apps with dynamic map functionality. The challenge is doing it efficiently, without premium licenses, while providing accurate GPS location services.
✅ Solution
Use PowerApps’ built-in Location function to capture GPS coordinates, register for a Google Maps API key, and embed the map into your app. This enables advanced mapping features without extra Power Platform licensing.
🔧 How It’s Done
1. Use PowerApps’ Location() function
🔸 Retrieve real-time latitude and longitude.
🔸 Ensure device location permissions are enabled.
2. Register for a Google Maps API account
🔸 Enable the Maps JavaScript API in Google Cloud Console.
🔸 Obtain and restrict your unique API key.
3. Embed Google Maps into your app
🔸 Add the API key to an HTML text control or custom connector.
🔸 Configure the map to render based on the captured coordinates.
🎉 Result
Your PowerApps now display interactive Google Maps, offering users seamless, real-time location services and an enriched app experience without extra Power Platform licensing.
🌟 Key Advantages
🔸 Cost Efficiency: Google Maps Platform includes a monthly free usage tier for map loads
🔸 No Premium Licenses Required: Works with standard PowerApps licensing
🔸 Enhanced User Experience: Direct access to rich mapping features inside your app
⚠️ Note on pricing: Google changed its Maps Platform billing in 2025 and replaced the former recurring $200 monthly credit with per-product monthly free-call allotments. Always check the current Google Maps Platform pricing before you rely on any free quota.
🎥 Video Tutorial
🛠️ FAQ
Q: Do I need a premium PowerApps license to integrate Google Maps?
No. You can embed Google Maps into PowerApps with a standard license; only the Google Maps API key and a Google Cloud billing setup are required.
Q: Is there a free usage tier?
Yes. Google Maps Platform provides a monthly free-call allowance per product. The exact amounts change over time, so verify the current pricing page before planning your usage.
Q: How can I secure my Google Maps API key?
In the Google Cloud Console, restrict your key by HTTP referrers or IP addresses and enable only the required APIs to minimize unauthorized usage.
Marcel Lehmann
Microsoft MVP