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Google Maps’ Timeline Feature Faces Significant Transition
The Timeline feature of Google Maps, previously recognized as Location History, has garnered mixed reactions. While some users appreciate its functionality for tracing past locations visited on specific dates and times, others view it as intrusive and unsettling, particularly when considering privacy concerns. This feature primarily operates for those who carry their Android devices, enabling a detailed retrospective on their travels.
Recently, Google announced an impending and substantial update to the Timeline feature, scheduled to roll out to users over the next few months, with initial changes already underway since December. One of the most notable alterations is that Timeline data will now be stored locally on individual devices, contingent on user consent, thereby eliminating its availability on Google’s servers. This shift is a significant step forward in enhancing user privacy.
However, the transition has not been without its complications. In the process of implementing these changes, Google inadvertently erased some users’ Timeline data permanently, unless they had opted for encrypted cloud backups. Unfortunately, it appears that only a minute fraction of users had taken this precaution, leaving many without recourse to recover their information.
A spokesperson for Google clarified that this incident stemmed from a technical glitch rather than user error or a deliberate policy change. While this explanation may provide little solace to those who have lost their data, there is a semblance of reassurance as Google has reportedly identified those affected and has sent out notifications via email to inform them of the situation. If you haven’t received such a message, it indicates that your Timeline data remains intact.
Source
www.gsmarena.com