Google offers an address autocomplete feature that allows non-programmers to add addresses to the Google Maps database. However, this functionality is not without its flaws. Not only does it lack important functions such as geolocation, it can also lead to duplicate addresses.
Although the Google Autocomplete API makes suggestions as you type, its accuracy can vary widely. For example, a single street can have thousands of shipping addresses. A similar street may have hundreds of residential addresses. Thus, it is important to choose an autocomplete API that offers standardized, verified addresses that are well-formatted.
The Google address autocomplete is useful for those looking to avoid typos and save keystrokes. But, it can be a little misleading because it fails to check if the address you are typing is valid.
Another reason you might want to use an autocomplete API is to increase your data submission speed. This is especially helpful when submitting data to a website or service. Addresses are commonly ambiguous and can be difficult to verify. An API can disambiguate these addresses, allowing you to submit your information accurately.
The US Autocomplete API is free to use. You can try out its features by creating sample cURL requests. In addition to providing address suggestions, it provides the ability to set a variety of filters and biases.
Smarty's Autocomplete Pro uses the same type of technology to calculate the aforementioned address-related functions. It averages eight to ten keystrokes to generate a good address suggestion.