Using Maps API to provide real-time navigation

[mnydigital]

I am looking to create a simple Uber-type app, but before going any further with the Maps API I want to clarify whether this is prohibited under the terms.

I can display a route on the map with the Directions Service, but there is no way to display that in a real-time GPS format without developing the functionality myself. I could do that, but the terms also mention that the following is prohibited:

(d) No Re-Creating Google Products or Features. Customer will not use the Services to create a product or service with features that are substantially similar to or that re-create the features of another Google product or service. Customer’s product or service must contain substantial, independent value and features beyond the Google products or services. For example, Customer will not: (i) re-distribute the Google Maps Core Services or pass them off as if they were Customer’s services; (ii) use the Google Maps Core Services to create a substitute of the Google Maps Core Services, Google Maps, or Google Maps mobile apps, or their features; (iii) use the Google Maps Core Services in a listings or directory service or to create or augment an advertising product; (iv) combine data from the Directions API, Geolocation API, and Maps SDK for Android to create real-time navigation functionality substantially similar to the functionality provided by the Google Maps for Android mobile app.

It is a bit hard to say what constitutes "substantially similar". It is not a general navigation app in the same way as Google Maps; the creation of real-time navigation functionality would only be used to expand on the Directions Service results to aid navigation within the app.

I'm leaning towards it not being allowed but if someone could clarify that would be appreciated.

Thanks.