Google Maps is undergoing significant changes in the way it manages user location data. The tech giant has announced that instead of storing this information on the cloud, it will now be stored locally on the user’s device. This shift in data storage comes as part of Google’s broader efforts to enhance user privacy and security. By storing location data locally, Google aims to give users more control over their data and prevent unauthorized access.
One of the key features affected by this change is Timeline, which was previously known as Location History. This feature allows users to track their past routes and trips based on their phone’s location. By linking this information to the user’s device instead of their Google account, Google is giving users more ownership of their location data. This change was first announced in December 2023 and is a part of Google’s ongoing efforts to prioritize user privacy.
Another consequence of this shift to on-device storage is the impact on web accessibility. Users will no longer be able to access their Timeline from the web starting in December. Instead, they will need to access it through Google Maps on their mobile device. This change may inconvenience some users who have grown accustomed to accessing their location history from the web. However, it is a necessary step to ensure the security and privacy of user data.
Users who wish to continue using Timeline must enable the new settings before the deadline on December 1st. Failure to do so may result in the loss of data older than 90 days. Google will attempt to migrate this information to the user’s first signed-in device, but any data older than 90 days will be deleted. To enable the new Timeline settings, users can open Google Maps on their mobile device, click on their profile picture, and navigate to Your Timeline. From there, they can choose how long they want to keep their location data before manual deletion or automatic deletion after three, 18, or 36 months.
Google’s decision to shift to on-device storage for location data marks a significant step towards enhancing user privacy and security. By giving users more control over their data and limiting access to third parties, Google is empowering users to take ownership of their location information. While this change may require some adjustments in how users access their Timeline, it ultimately reflects Google’s commitment to prioritizing user privacy in the era of increasing data security concerns.
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