- Google Maps will now store location data on users’ devices instead of servers.
- The location history feature is renamed to Timeline for better control.
- Users will receive emails to update their settings and avoid data loss.
Google Maps will now store users’ location data on their devices instead of on servers, enhancing privacy and security. Previously, real-time location data was saved on Google’s servers unless users manually disabled the feature. With this change, Google aims to give users more control over their data.
The location history feature has been renamed to Timeline, which includes information about places visited, restaurants dined at, and more. Google asserts that while their cloud services are secure, storing data locally provides additional privacy. This new feature is available for both Android and iOS users.
Users will receive emails from Google once this feature is available to them. The email will instruct users to update their settings by a specified deadline to avoid losing any Timeline data, such as visits and routes. It is crucial for users to promptly update their settings to retain their data.
Additionally, users can enable an auto-delete feature for their location history. By accessing the Timeline feature in Google Maps, users can choose to keep their location data until they manually delete it or set it to auto-delete after 3, 18, or 36 months. This privacy feature is expected to roll out globally soon.
