Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Google Chart API?
2. Why is Google offering this service? What's in it for me?
3. Is Google logging all my chart data?
4. I think Google should support a new type of chart, or I have a feature request. Where should I send my request?
5. What kinds of charts are supported?
6. Can I create a chart programmatically, e.g. from a JavaScript API?

What is the Google Chart API?

The Google Chart API is an extremely simple tool that lets you easily create a chart from some data and embed it in a webpage. You embed the data and formatting parameters in an HTTP request, and Google returns a PNG image of the chart. Many types of chart are supported, and by making the request into an image tag you can simply include the chart in a webpage.

Why is Google offering this service? What's in it for me?

We built the service originally as an internal tool to support rapid embedding of charts within our own applications (like Google Finance for example). We figured it would be a useful tool to open up to web developers.

Is Google logging all my chart data?

The chart data included in the HTTP request is saved in temporary logs for no longer than two weeks for internal testing and debugging purposes.

Of course you should understand that if your chart appears in an image tag on a public webpage it could be crawled.

I think Google should support a new type of chart, or I have a feature request. Where should I send my request?

We have a Google Group set up for this and other support requests: http://groups.google.com/group/google-chart-api

What kinds of charts are supported?

Currently line, bar, and pie charts, as well as venn diagrams and scatter plots. The full list will always be up to date on the main documentation.

Can I create a chart programmatically, e.g. from a JavaScript API?

Currently we only support creating a chart by sending the request in a URL. Of course, there's nothing to stop you implementing your own code to assemble the URLs.