Fix: “The API developer key is invalid” when using Google Drive in SocialBu

Written By Umar Khan

Last updated About 3 hours ago

If you see “There was an error” and “The API developer key is invalid” when trying Upload from Drive in the SocialBu Composer, it usually means Google has an old/invalid authorization state cached for SocialBu.

The quickest fix is to disconnect SocialBu from Google Drive in your Google account, then connect again from SocialBu.

Before you start

  • You’ll need access to the same Google account you use when selecting files in Google Drive.

  • This only removes SocialBu’s access to Drive. It does not delete any files from your Drive.

Step 1: Disconnect SocialBu from Google Drive

  1. Open Google Drive in your browser: https://drive.google.com

  2. Click the Settings (gear icon) in the top-right.

  3. Click Settings.

  4. Open Manage apps (left sidebar).

  5. Find SocialBu in the list.

  6. Click Options (or the drop-down next to SocialBu).

  7. Click Disconnect from Drive.

  8. Confirm the disconnect.

If you don’t see SocialBu in Manage apps, also check your Google Account permissions:

  1. Go to your Google Account: https://myaccount.google.com

  2. Open Security.

  3. Under Your connections to third-party apps & services, find SocialBu.

  4. Click SocialBu → Remove all connections (or Remove access).

Step 2: Connect again from SocialBu (via the Composer)

  1. In SocialBu, open Composer (create a post).

  2. In the media uploader, click Upload from Drive (Google Drive).

  3. When Google asks, select the correct Google account.

  4. Click Continue and Allow to grant Drive access.

  5. Pick your file(s) in the Drive picker and confirm.

If it still doesn’t work

  • Try the same steps in an Incognito/Private window, then connect again via Upload from Drive.

  • Make sure you’re not switching between multiple Google accounts in the same browser session (log out of extra accounts or use a separate browser profile).

  • If you’re using a work/school Google account, your admin may restrict third‑party access. Ask them to allow SocialBu, or try a different Google account.