Google Maps to Stop Storing Your Location History on Its Servers
Google Maps is taking a significant step towards enhancing user privacy by changing how it handles location data. Instead of storing users’ location history on Google’s servers, the app will now save this information directly on users’ devices. This feature, previously known as “location history,” has been aptly renamed “Timeline.”
The rollout of this change is happening gradually, with some users already experiencing it. However, the deadline for complete implementation is set for December 1, 2024. The primary objective of this move is to give users greater control over their location data.
With the Timeline feature, users’ travel history, including the restaurants they’ve visited, will be stored locally on their Android or iOS devices. This means that users no longer have to rely on cloud servers to maintain their location data, ensuring enhanced privacy and security.
To further fortify data protection, Google Maps offers end-to-end encrypted cloud backups for the Timeline. This additional layer of security guarantees that only the user can access their backed-up location history, providing peace of mind.
It’s important to note that this feature is exclusively available for app users. The web version of the Timeline will no longer be accessible through the Maps interface on desktops. While users could previously access their location history via the web, this change will restrict that functionality. However, the Timeline feature will continue to function seamlessly on the Google Maps apps for Android and iOS devices.
As the rollout is an ongoing process, some users may not have received the update yet. Google plans to inform users via email and push notifications from the Google Maps app when the feature becomes available for them. These notifications will prompt users to migrate their existing location history to their devices through an updated app button.
If users fail to migrate their data, Google may delete some or all of their Timeline data as the web feature is phased out. To ensure data continuity when switching devices, Google Maps will introduce a backup option. Users can save encrypted copies of their location history on Google’s servers and restore them when transitioning to a new phone.
This strategic move by Google Maps demonstrates a commitment to prioritizing user privacy while still offering a comprehensive location tracking experience. By putting users in control of their location data and implementing robust encryption measures, Google aims to strike a balance between functionality and data security.
