Google Maps Introduces New Features for Enhanced User Privacy

Updates Include On-Device Data Storage, Shortened Auto-Delete Control, and Improved Activity Management

Google Maps is introducing new features to give users more control over their personal location data. The updates will focus on providing users with greater control over their data and improving the features of Google Maps.
The Timeline feature in Maps, which helps users recall visited places, will soon allow data to be saved directly on users' devices. This comes at a time when Google and Apple are under increasing scrutiny for user privacy concerns.
When Location History is enabled, the auto-delete control will be set to delete any data older than three months by default. This is a significant reduction from the previous default time frame of 18 months.
The updates will also enable users to view and delete all recent activity on Maps related to a specific place. This means that users can readily delete searches, directions, visits, and shares with just a few taps.
These updates are part of Google’s commitment to ensure the safety, privacy, and control of user data. Google Maps does not sell user data to any party, including advertisers, thereby ensuring the privacy of its users.