Google Maps to get a new privacy update which will no longer store your location history

Google announced an overhaul for Maps a few months ago and has actively been trying to introduce developments on both the design and security front. But only recently, it declared a privacy update that will act as a major shift in the way it deals with users’ location data. Previously, the smartphone app would store location data on its server history; however, with the new update, the brand mentioned how this information will only stay on a user’s device. Here’s what you need to know about it:

Google Maps privacy update: What's new?

Google introduced the privacy update shortly after facing issues with its Cloud storage. The new update’s primary aim is to protect a user’s data by ensuring their location information and timeline remain in their control. For further protection of this data, Google Maps will also provide end-to-end encrypted cloud backups for Maps.

This means what was earlier stored on the app’s cloud servers will now be stored locally on your device, giving you more authority to access and control your personal information.

What is Google Maps Timeline?

Google introduced the Timeline feature a few years ago which allowed users comprehensive information about their location. It essentially allows you to access your travel history, along with the time taken and the mode of transport used that particular day. Apart from this, it also highlights any eateries, residential or shopping arcades you have visited. However, instead of tying this information with your Google Account, the new update ensures it stays stored locally on your device and even gives you the option of backing it up on Google Drive if required.

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In 2023, the brand began filtering the data shared with Timeline and stopped highlighting sensitive places, such as abortion clinics, or domestic violence shelters, to prevent authorities from accessing them. It has taken a step further by ensuring no one, starting in December, can access this data apart from the user in question. It is also crucial to note that this update will mean your data will not sync across devices and will differ if you have two phones or a change of device.

How to save your Timeline data on Google?

If you’re someone who enjoys revisiting their favourite days on Google Maps, the company will soon allow you to save your Timeline data before its deletion in December. Google will also not make this a silent update and you might find a push notification or email stating the change is ready to roll out.

Users will have the option on whether or not they wish to migrate their data to their devices, and will soon phase out across your smartphones, tablets and desktops, respectively. For anyone who plans on changing their device, Google also plans to come up with an easier way to back up this information and migrate across devices. The feature is all set to roll out by December 1, 2024, and will gradually be available to all users with a Google Account.