Google shifts Location History to devices and presents new controls in Maps

Google is changing how it handles Location History on Android and iOS by storing the data directly on devices instead of in the cloud.

This move provides end-to-end encrypted cloud backups for the "Your Timeline" feature in Maps. Users will receive notifications in the Google Maps app about the shift, emphasizing increased control over data, and the option to back up data to the cloud with automatic encryption for added security.

The update will be gradually rolled out over the next year, with users receiving notifications when it reaches their accounts.

In addition to the Location History change, auto-delete for this data will default to three months instead of 18, a feature that users can manually enable. Google Maps is introducing a feature that allows users to view and delete place-related activity, making it easier to manage searches, directions, visits, and shares.

The mobile apps will also feature enhanced location controls accessible by tapping the blue map dot representing the user's current location, with the update set to roll out in the coming weeks.