Google Maps is undergoing a significant change in the way it handles your location data. Instead of storing this information in the cloud, Google will now be saving it locally on your device. This shift marks a departure from the previous method of backing up your data to the cloud, and it comes as part of Google’s broader efforts to prioritize user privacy.
One of the most notable features affected by this change is Timeline, which was previously known as Location History. This feature tracks your routes and trips based on your phone’s location, allowing you to revisit the places you’ve been. However, instead of associating this information with your Google account, Google will now link it directly to the devices you use.
Ensuring Data Preservation
Google has communicated to users that they have until December 1st to save all their travel data to their mobile devices before any old data is deleted. This means that if you want to retain access to your travel history, you’ll need to enable the new Timeline settings on your device. Failure to do so may result in the loss of data older than the past 90 days.
As part of this shift to on-device storage, Google will no longer support accessing Timeline from the web starting in December. This means that users will need to utilize the Google Maps mobile app to view and manage their location data. By accessing the app and navigating to the Your Timeline section, users can choose to retain their location data indefinitely or opt for automatic deletion after a specified period.
This transition to device-centric storage also aligns with Google’s efforts to enhance privacy protections for users. In recent years, the company has taken steps to safeguard sensitive location information, such as removing certain locations from history and implementing measures to prevent unauthorized access by third parties. By empowering users to store their data locally, Google is further prioritizing user privacy and data security.
The evolving approach to handling location data in Google Maps reflects a broader industry trend towards greater user control and privacy. By storing information locally on devices and providing users with more flexible options for managing their data, Google is responding to concerns about data privacy and security. Users should be aware of these changes and take proactive steps to ensure they maintain access to their travel history within the Google Maps app.
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