If you've ever tried to use Google APIs, you'll discover they can vary wildly. Not only do they operate differently from each other, you'll find that the security mechanism for one will likely differ for another. Even if you're using the same programming language, client library usage can vary greatly between product groups like Google Cloud (GCP), Firebase, Google Workspace (GWS; e.g., Gmail, Google Drive, Calendar, Docs, Sheets, Slides, etc.), YouTube, Google Maps (GMP), Google AI/Gemini, etc. This session attempts to corral all the different options available to developers by providing an overview of the differing API product families, the various accepted types of API credentials, e.g., API keys, OAuth client IDs, service accounts, which APIs are free (and which aren't), and how to finally use Google APIs the way you need in order to solve problems for your organization or your customers'.

The speaker is not a representative of Google but does have over a dozen years of experience on various Google API product teams and is well-known in the Python and Google developer communities. As an APIs-focused freelance consultant, their primary objective of helping the developer industry get over the obvious hurdles is key, so this session isn't so much focused on the technology, but rather, aims to remove confusion in the marketplace in order for developers to move forward with solutions rather than getting roadblocked by Google's API usage inconsistencies and confusion. The goal is for the audience to become knowledgeable about the Google developer ecosystem so they can make informed decisions on the right solutions for their needs, regardless of whether they choose to use Google developer tools or not.

PREREQUISITES
- Experience using Google APIs is helpful but required
- Basic API usage from Python or Node.js/JavaScript
- Some understanding of API security & credentials

OBJECTIVES/TAKEAWAYS
- Learn about the Google APIs ecosystem
- Gain familiarity with different Google API product families
- Get an understanding of Google APIs security mechanisms & credentials types
- See actual short code samples demonstrating Google API usage