The Google+ API once served as a cornerstone for developers managing authentication and user profiles within their applications. Its integration enabled seamless user sign-ins and streamlined profile management for countless platforms. However, on March 7, 2019, the Google+ API was officially shut down, leaving developers scrambling for alternatives.

This blog aims to guide developers through the transition process. It will address why the Google+ shutdown occurred, its implications, and how you can migrate to modern APIs like Google Sign-In and the People API. And our website owner’s manual can help you with other questions if you’re a new owner.

Why Was the Google+ API Shut Down?

The Google+ API was shut down due to a combination of low user engagement, security issues, and Google’s strategic priorities. Despite initial ambitions, the Google+ platform failed to attract a significant and active user base, which made maintaining its API less viable over time.

A major turning point came in 2018 when Google discovered a data breach affecting the Google+ API. This incident exposed sensitive user data and highlighted vulnerabilities, prompting Google to prioritize user security by phasing out the platform entirely.

At the same time, Google chose to redirect its focus toward modern solutions like Google Sign-In and the People API. These alternatives provide enhanced security, better user experiences, and improved scalability for developers. The discontinuation of the Google+ API represented a shift toward more secure and efficient systems, encouraging developers to embrace updated technologies.

How Does This Affect Developers?

The shutdown of the Google+ API has created several challenges for developers, particularly those relying on its features for authentication and user management. Here are the key ways it impacts developers:

1. Legacy systems: Applications that integrated the Google+ API may experience disruptions. Features like user authentication and profile data retrieval are no longer functional, requiring developers to rewrite or update affected codebases.

2. Authentication changes: The deprecation of Google+ Sign-In necessitates a shift to Google Sign-In, which uses a more secure framework. This change means developers need to adapt their sign-in flows to comply with updated standards.

3. Scope Changes: Several OAuth scopes associated with the Google+ API have been deprecated, including plus.login, plus.me, and plus.profile.emails.read. These have been replaced by scopes like profile, openid, and email. Developers must remap these scopes in their integrations.

4. Token Issues: Tokens generated for the deprecated API are no longer valid, potentially leading to unverified tokens and disruptions in user consent flows. To maintain functionality, developers need to ensure their applications use tokens compatible with the updated APIs.

These issues highlight why developers must act quickly to migrate. Is Google shutting down all APIs? No, but relying on deprecated ones like the Google+ API will result in functionality loss.

For managing workflow disruptions caused by such transitions, consider these tips on managing your workflow without being overwhelmed and check out the list of free business tools that can help streamline development.

Migration Steps: From Google+ API to Google Sign-In

Transitioning from the Google+ API to Google Sign-In requires several key updates to ensure compatibility and maintain functionality. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help developers migrate effectively:

Step 1: Update OAuth Scopes
Replace deprecated OAuth scopes with their updated counterparts:

• plus.login → profile
• plus.me → openid
• plus.profile.emails.read → email

Ensure your application’s permissions reflect these changes to maintain data access and functionality.

Step 2: Update Sign-In Implementation
Adjust your application’s sign-in mechanisms to comply with Google Sign-In standards:

• Replace the g-signin class with g-signin2 in your sign-in button implementation.
• Define distinct success and failure handlers to handle authentication results effectively.
• Update JavaScript flows by switching from gapi.auth.signIn to gapi.auth2.attachClickHandler.

Step 3: Revoke Old Tokens
Tokens associated with deprecated scopes should be revoked to prevent unauthorized access:

• Use Google’s API tools to invalidate old tokens tied to the Google+ API.
• Prompt users to re-consent using the updated OAuth scopes for secure and seamless interactions.

Step 4: Use ID Tokens for Authentication
Adopt ID tokens for a more secure authentication process:

• Leverage ID tokens to verify user identities without additional API calls for profile information.
• Ensure your application is configured to validate and decode ID tokens properly.

By following these steps, developers can transition their applications to Google Sign-In while improving security and user experience.

Alternatives to Google+ API

With the discontinuation of the Google+ API, developers must explore alternative tools to fulfill similar functionalities. Google offers robust solutions tailored to modern authentication and user management needs:

1. Google Sign-In

Google Sign-In is a powerful and secure alternative for user authentication, enabling seamless integration with Google accounts.

Key features:

• Based on OpenID Connect, providing enhanced security.
• Simplifies sign-ins with fewer steps for users.
• Supports integration across web and mobile platforms.

Use cases: Ideal for applications needing simple and secure authentication without extensive profile data retrieval.

2. People API

The People API allows developers to access user profile information and manage contact data.

Key features:

• Provides rich user profile data, including names, email addresses, and photos.
• Allows retrieval and management of user contacts.

Use cases: Useful for applications that rely on detailed user information or require access to contact lists for functionality like email management or collaboration tools.

How to Choose the Right API for Your Application

Selecting the appropriate alternative depends on your application’s requirements:

• Use Google Sign-In for secure authentication and simple profile access.
• Opt for the People API when you need to manage contacts or retrieve detailed user information.

These tools not only replace the Google+ API but also provide modernized capabilities to enhance your applications. For insights into measuring the impact of these alternatives, explore marketing KPIs examples to understand performance benchmarks.

Developer FAQs

The transition away from the Google+ API has raised several common questions among developers. Here are clear answers to help address these concerns:

Does Google+ still exist? 

No, the Google+ shutdown in March 2019 marked the end of its functionality.

What happens if I don’t migrate in time?

If you fail to migrate before the shutdown, your application will experience disruptions. Authentication features dependent on the Google+ API will stop working, leading to unverified tokens, failed sign-ins, and user warnings.

Can I still use Google Account Login?

Yes. The Google+ API shutdown only affects that specific service. Google Sign-In remains fully operational and is the recommended replacement for authentication.

How do I update legacy code?

Updating legacy code involves several critical steps:

• Replace deprecated OAuth scopes with updated ones, such as profile, openid, and email.
• Update your sign-in flows to use Google Sign-In libraries and ensure compatibility with new endpoints.
• Review your application for any hardcoded dependencies on the Google+ API and refactor them accordingly.

Will users need to take action during the transition?

Yes, users may need to re-consent to updated scopes and authentication methods, especially if old tokens are revoked during the migration process. Communicating these changes proactively is crucial to maintaining a smooth user experience.

By addressing these FAQs, developers can better navigate the challenges associated with migrating away from the Google+ API.

Tips for a Smooth Migration

Migrating from the Google+ API to modern alternatives like Google Sign-In requires careful planning and execution. Follow these tips to ensure a seamless transition:

1. Start Early
Begin the migration process as soon as possible to avoid last-minute disruptions. Early preparation allows ample time to identify dependencies, refactor code, and test thoroughly.

2. Use Google’s Migration Guides
Leverage official resources, such as the Google Sign-In Quick Migration Guide, to streamline the migration process. These guides provide step-by-step instructions and best practices.

3. Validate Tokens and Permissions
Use tools like Google’s token validator to ensure your application is using valid tokens and correct OAuth scopes. This reduces the risk of authentication failures.

4. Test Extensively
Conduct comprehensive testing before deploying changes. Focus on:

• Authentication flows to ensure they work as expected.
• User experience, verifying that updates don’t introduce confusion or friction.

5. Communicate with Users
Inform users about any required actions, such as re-consenting to updated scopes or logging in again. Clear communication minimizes frustration and ensures a smoother user experience.

By following these tips, developers can transition their applications effectively, minimizing disruptions and leveraging the improved security and functionality of modern APIs.