Google Maps Adds Real-Time Location Sharing Feature
Google has rolled out a highly anticipated real-time location sharing feature directly within Google Maps, available on both Android and iOS. This update empowers users to share their whereabouts with friends and family seamlessly—with full control over duration and visibility.
How It Works
- Time-Limited Sharing: Share your location for specific periods (e.g., 30 minutes) or until you reach a destination.
- Granular Controls: Revoke access for any contact at any time.
- Transparency Alerts: The app notifies you when sharing is active, and updates appear in your Google My Activity dashboard.
- No App Required: Recipients can view your location via a shareable link—no Google Maps installation needed.
Image Credit: Google
A Familiar Feature, Now Streamlined
While Google previously offered location sharing through Google Latitude (discontinued in 2013) and the Trusted Contacts app, integrating this functionality into Google Maps—with over 1 billion active users—makes it universally accessible. Competing platforms like Apple’s Find My (iOS/macOS) and Microsoft’s defunct SquadWatch app provided similar tools, but Google’s solution prioritizes simplicity and broad compatibility.
Context & Recent Updates
This launch aligns with Google’s efforts to enhance Maps with practical utilities, including:
- Event-based traffic predictions
- Parking difficulty indicators
- Auto-saved parking locations (Android-only)
What’s Not Included
During a briefing in San Francisco, Google Maps VP Jen Fitzpatrick clarified that the feature:
- Won’t integrate with Waze (Google’s traffic app)
- Lacks Google Assistant support (for now)
“This isn’t about introducing new capabilities—it’s about making existing ones simpler, with control and transparency at the forefront.”
— Jen Fitzpatrick, VP of Google Maps
For technical details, refer to Google’s official blog post.
Why It Matters
Location sharing isn’t novel, but embedding it into Google Maps reduces friction for everyday use—whether coordinating meetups, ensuring safety during travel, or keeping loved ones informed. With privacy controls and cross-platform accessibility, it’s poised to become a go-to tool for millions.
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