Google Maps Introduces WhatsApp-Like Feature for Live Location Sharing on Android and iOS

By Consultants Review Team Wednesday, 03 January 2024

Google Maps has rolled out a new feature allowing users to share their live location, a functionality similar to WhatsApp's offering. This 'Location Sharing' feature is available on Android, iOS, and PC, enabling users to seamlessly share their real-time location with family and friends.

To use this feature, users simply need to open the Google Maps app on their Android phone, iPhone, or iPad and initiate the location-sharing process. Users have the flexibility to determine the duration for which their location will be shared. The options include intervals of 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, and more, providing a similar experience to WhatsApp's duration choices of 15 minutes, 1 hour, and 8 hours.

Recipients of the shared location will not only have visibility into the user's precise location but also be informed about the device's battery status and charging status. This feature can be particularly useful for individuals navigating to a destination, as they can share their Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) with others.

Google emphasizes that even when users are not actively using any Google apps, the person with whom the location is shared will still be able to see the user's name, photo, and device's exact location. The time of departure and estimated time of arrival will also be displayed.

This enhancement in Google Maps aims to provide users with a convenient and user-friendly way to share their live location across different devices. With user convenience at the forefront, this feature adds another layer of functionality to Google Maps, making it a versatile tool for location sharing.

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