Google Maps can tell your friends where you are
SAN FRANCISCO — Google Maps is pushing the bounds of online sharing, handing people a convenient way to broadcast their movements to friends and family via the mobile app.
No need to call or text to let someone know where you are or how soon you will arrive. When you are sharing your location with people, they can see you on their map. Google says it reminds you that you are sharing your location. And it says you can turn off the feature any time.
The location-sharing feature will debut Wednesday in an update to the Google Maps app and on personal computers.
This kind of location sharing is already possible in other mobile apps. But the new feature, being added to one of the world's most popular apps at a time of heightened sensitivity over digital privacy, may give some people pause or even the willies.
It's true, it could be used for surveillance purposes. Think teenagers out on the town or a suspicious spouse. Or it could even pose a threat to someone trapped in an abusive relationship whose partner demands to know where they are.
Google wants you to use it for friendlier purposes.
How it works: Open the side menu or tap the blue dot that shows where you are. Tap "Share location" and then select who among your Google contacts to share with and how long to share. Or you can send a link to friends and family that shows where you are on their map. If that person doesn't have the Google Maps app on their phone, Google Maps will text a link to open the location on the map in a browser.
You can also share your location and progress on navigation as well. Tap the “More” button on the bottom of the navigation screen and then tap “Share trip.” When you share your trip with people, they’ll see your expected arrival time and can plot your progress. Sharing automatically ends when you arrive, Google says.
Worried that you'll forget you are broadcasting your whereabouts? An icon above the compass will remind you that you are sharing your location. If you leave the feature on, Google Maps will send you emails reminding you about it.