According to an email from Google that I received today, Google will start charging for AdWords API calls from 1st July 2006. The charge will be a “nominal” US$0.25 per 1000 quota units consumed.
Google are also modifying the terms and conditions of use for AdWords API so that commercial applications such as AdWords Dominator can legally be used. The terms and conditions that apply from July can be viewed here:
The current quota system will be discontinued, and unlimited paid access to AdWords API will be provided.
Some people will be exempt from some of the new charges and terms. The only example offered is that those who design proprietary applications to advertise their own products will be partially exempt. Further details are to follow in June, when Google will be providing more details.
How does this affect us as affiliate marketers? I believe that it will have little effect on most affiliate marketers. Only those who have written in-house applications are likely to be affected, and the effect is unknown at this stage because they will apparently be exempt from some charges. I anticipate that the use of products such as AdWords Dominator will dwindle as charges are applied for their use.
David Thomas, The Affiliate Marketer
