Disabling Location Sharing on an Android phone has never been more straightforward.

Google has introduced a new feature on Android that allows you to control who can see your location. This feature simplifies the process of managing your location sharing, making it easier for you to manage who can see your whereabouts. To utilize this feature effectively, follow these tips. (iPhone users, follow these tips)

Enter the giveaway by signing up for my free newsletter.

The new Location Sharing toggle

The new "Google Location Sharing" toggle in Android settings allows for easy management of preferences without having to navigate through Google Maps. This update is part of the latest Google Play Services and aims to simplify and enhance location sharing control.

What Location Sharing means

Let's pause for a moment to comprehend the reasons for enabling this and the consequences of disabling it.

Instead of exchanging numerous texts, you can share your real-time location on Google Maps with your friend in a busy city. This feature enables you to provide your precise position and additional information such as your device's battery level or estimated arrival time while navigating.

When location sharing is turned off, your movements remain private, and your personal information is better safeguarded from potential misuse. As a result, apps and services no longer have access to your location data, which not only enhances your privacy but also conserves battery life by minimizing background tracking.

Consider whether staying connected or maintaining privacy is more important to you before making a decision.

Supported devices and software

The Location Sharing toggle is available on Android smartphones, including popular models from brands such as Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy, as well as other manufacturers that run stock or near-stock Android versions. Certain Android tablets that support the latest versions of the operating system may also have access to this feature. This feature is part of recent updates to the Android OS, specifically through Google Play Services. To access this functionality effectively, ensure your devices are running at least Android 12 or later.

How to update the latest software on your device

Upgrade your device data before attempting to upgrade.

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.

• Go to Settings
• Click System
• Tap Software updates
• Then click System Update
• If available, tap Download and install
• Wait for the download to complete and your device to restart

How to disable Location Sharing on Android

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.

• Open the Settings app on your phone
• Scroll down and click Location
• This will disable location sharing on your Android.

The benefits of enhanced location control

1) Improved privacy management

The new feature allows you to easily turn off location sharing while also improving privacy management by providing clear information on who can track you. This gives you greater control over your shared information, making you feel more secure, especially in situations where privacy is crucial.

2) Easier communication with trusted contacts

Here's how to share your real-time location with trusted contacts using Google Maps when Use Location is toggled on.

• Launch the Google Maps app on your Android device
• Tap your profile picture or initial in the top right corner
• Then select Location sharing

• Tap on Share location, or it might say New share
• How long would you like to share your location? (Options range from 15 minutes to "Until you turn this off")
• Select the contacts you want to share your location with from the list. If they are not present, click on "More" to find them.
• Rewritten sentence: "If you don't have a Google account, you can still access the information by copying the link and pasting it into a text message or email."
• Tap Share to send your location

Remember that people you share your location with can always see:

• Your name and photo
• Your device's recent location, even when you're not using Google services, can be accessed by Google.
• Your device's battery power and if it's charging
• Your arrival and departure time, if they add a Location Sharing notification

They may also see other information depending on how you're sharing.

Kurt’s key takeaways

The new "Google Location Sharing" toggle in Android settings allows for more control over location sharing, providing a balance between convenience and privacy management. This feature is a welcome improvement for Android users.

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where turning your location sharing on or off was critical? Please share your thoughts with us by writing to Cyberguy.com/Contact.

To receive my tech tips and security alerts, sign up for my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter at Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.