Google Maps Introduces Live Location Sharing Feature: How To Enable it on iOS and Android

Highlights

• Google Maps now offers live location sharing on Android and iOS.
• Feature includes battery status and ETA sharing.
• Users can control location sharing duration.
• Accessible through the Google Maps app on mobile devices.

Google has recently updated its Maps application to include a live location sharing feature, now available on both Android and iOS devices, as well as on PC.

This feature enhances the way users can share their whereabouts with friends and family.

How To Enable Live Location Sharing on Google Maps

To utilize this new feature, users can follow these simple steps.

It is the same for both Android and iOS devices.

• Open the Google Maps App: Start by launching the Google Maps app on your device.
• Access Your Profile: Tap on your profile picture icon located usually at the top corner.
• Select Location Sharing: From the menu, choose the ‘Location sharing’ option.
• Initiate Share: Tap on the ‘Share location’ button to begin.
• Set the Duration: Choose how long you want to share your location. Opting for ‘Until you turn this off’ can lead to increased battery usage.
• Choose Contacts: Select contacts from your list to share your location. Alternatively, generate a link to share through third-party messaging apps like WhatsApp.
• Stop Sharing: If needed, you can stop sharing your location anytime before the set duration expires by toggling it off in the app.

Google Maps: Additional Features

Google Maps’ location sharing isn’t just about real-time positioning. It offers several enhancements over traditional location sharing found in messaging apps:

• Battery Status Sharing: Those you share your location with can see your device’s battery status, informing them if your device is charging or low on power.
• Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA): If you are navigating to a destination, you can share your ETA with your contacts.

Google Maps: Privacy Considerations

It’s important to note that sharing your location through Gmail ID restricts access to only the selected contact.

However, sharing a location link allows anyone with the link to view your live location.

Users should exercise caution when choosing how to share their location details.

Google Maps’ Enhancements

Besides live location sharing, Google Maps has been introducing various new features.

Recently, the company announced five new features targeted at Indian users, such as address descriptors and live street navigation.

The app now also displays relevant landmarks when searching for specific locations, making navigation more intuitive.

FAQs

How can I share my live location using Google Maps on my smartphone?

To share your live location, open the Google Maps app, tap on your profile picture, and select ‘Location sharing’.

Then, choose the duration for sharing and select contacts or create a shareable link. Remember, you can stop sharing your location anytime before the set duration.

What unique features does Google Maps’ live location sharing offer?

Google Maps’ live location sharing includes additional information like your device’s battery status and your estimated time of arrival (ETA) if you are navigating to a destination.

This adds an extra layer of information for those you’re sharing your location with.

Is live location sharing on Google Maps available on all devices?

This feature is available on Android and iOS devices, making it widely accessible to most smartphone users.

Users can share their location using the Google Maps app on these platforms.

What should I be aware of in terms of privacy when using live location sharing on Google Maps?

When sharing your location through Gmail ID, only the selected contacts can access your location.

However, sharing a link allows anyone with the link to view your location. Always be cautious and selective about whom you share your location with.

What is the timeline for the removal of Driving Mode in Google Maps?

Google plans to phase out the Driving Mode feature from Google Maps for Android users by February 2024, as indicated by recent app code findings.

Why is Google removing the Driving Mode feature?

While the exact reasons aren’t officially stated, the removal appears to align with Google’s strategy of focusing on voice commands for safer in-car operations, reducing the need for physical interaction with the device.

How was the Driving Mode feature in Google Maps different from the Assistant Driving Mode Dashboard?

The Assistant Driving Mode Dashboard, discontinued in 2022, provided a comprehensive interface with map views and controls.

The Driving Mode in Google Maps integrated similar functions but with a more streamlined approach.

What alternatives will Google Maps offer after Driving Mode’s removal?

Post the removal of Driving Mode, Google Maps users are expected to use the app’s enhanced navigation mode, which emphasizes voice input for functionalities like calls and media control.

How does the new Google Maps update enhance location data privacy?

The latest update to Google Maps marks a significant shift in how user location data is managed.

Instead of automatically storing location history in the cloud, the app will now save this data directly on the user’s device.

For those who prefer cloud storage, Google offers the option to upload data as an encrypted backup, ensuring complete privacy.

This change allows users to have more control over their location data, with the added assurance that even Google cannot access their encrypted Location History.

What are the changes to the auto-delete function in Google Maps?

Google Maps has revised its auto-delete function for location history.

Previously, the app retained location data for 18 months, but following the update, it will now automatically delete this information after just three months.

Users have the option to adjust this setting if they wish to retain their data for a longer period.

This change is a proactive step by Google to prioritize user privacy and data security.

What additional privacy features does the Google Maps update include?

The update introduces new functionalities for enhanced privacy control. Users can now delete specific place-related activities from their Maps history.

Additionally, the update includes new blue dot controls, providing users with more direct management over their location data.

These features offer users increased flexibility and control over their personal data and how it is used within the app.

What new transit features are coming to Google Maps?

Google Maps is updating its transit directions to provide better route recommendations, including estimated arrival times and number of transfers.

It will also display detailed station entrance and exit locations with specific walking directions.

How will the collaborative lists in Google Maps improve trip planning?

The collaborative lists feature in Google Maps will allow users to create shared lists where each person can add and vote on suggested places, making group trip planning easier and more democratic.

In which cities will the new Google Maps transit features be available?

The enhanced transit directions will be rolling out to over 80 cities worldwide, such as Berlin, Boston, London, and Madrid.

The rollout is expected to begin within a few weeks.

How to hide someone on Google Maps?

To hide someone on Google Maps, follow these steps:

On your Android phone or tablet, open the Google Maps app.
Tap Saved. Under “Your lists,” tap Labeled.
Next to your contact, tap More. To hide a contact from showing up on Google Maps, tap Hide contact in Maps. Hide.

Can Google Maps be private?

You now have more ways to control your privacy on Google Maps.

Use Incognito mode when you don’t want your activity—like the places you search for or navigate to—to be saved to your Google Account.

How do I hide my address on Google?

Here’s the step-by-step breakdown of how to hide your address in Google My Business.

Log in to your Google account associated with your listing.
Click on your “info” tab.
Find the address section. …
Find the section that reads: “Clear address” and click it to clear out any information.
Click “Apply”.

How do I change the default navigation app on my smartphone to Google Maps?

To set Google Maps as your default navigation app, go to your phone’s settings. Navigate to “Apps” or “Applications,” find the current default navigation app, and select “Clear Defaults.”

The next time you use a navigation link or app, it will prompt you to choose a default, where you can select Google Maps.

Also Read: Google Maps to Reportedly End Driving Mode Feature in 2024 Update

Also Read: Google Maps Introduces New Features to Streamline Transit and Social Interaction

Also Read: How To Set Area Busy Feature In Google Maps