Transit Router - API Key Setup Guide

Transit Router uses the Google Directions API to search for public transit routes. You need a free API key to use the app.  As usual it was created with claude "ai". 

Step 1: Create a Google Cloud Account

1. Go to https://console.cloud.google.com
2. Sign in with your Google account (or create one)
3. Accept the Terms of Service

Step 2: Create a New Project

1. Click on the project dropdown at the top of the page
2. Click "New Project"
3. Enter a name (e.g. "Transit Router")
4. Click "Create"
5. Wait for the project to be created, then select it

Step 3: Enable the Directions API

1. Go to APIs & Services > Library (left sidebar)
2. Search for "Directions API"
3. Click on "Directions API"
4. Click the "Enable" button

Step 4: Create an API Key

1. Go to APIs & Services > Credentials (left sidebar)
2. Click "+ Create Credentials" at the top
3. Select "API key"
4. Your new API key will be displayed
5. Copy the key (looks like: AIzaSyB...)

Step 5: Set Up Billing (Required)

Google requires a billing account for API access, but offers a free tier:

1. Go to Billing (left sidebar)
2. Click "Link a billing account"
3. Add a payment method (credit card)
4. You get $200 free credit per month - more than enough for personal use

Note: The Directions API costs $5 per 1000 requests. With the free tier, you can make ~40,000 route searches per month at no cost.

Step 6: Enter the Key in Transit Router

1. Open Transit Router on your N9
2. Paste your API key in the setup screen
3. Tap "Save and Continue"
4. Start searching for routes!

Optional: Restrict Your API Key

For security, you can restrict your API key:

1. Go to APIs & Services > Credentials
2. Click on your API key
3. Under "API restrictions", select "Restrict key"
4. Check only "Directions API"
5. Click "Save"