Rebeka Barefield
Google has announced major updates to its Google Maps Timeline feature. These changes are crucial for anyone who relies on this tool to track their locations and routes, especially since they can result in missing Google Timelines. This blog will help you understand the updates, troubleshoot any issues you may encounter, and offer an alternative for route tracking.
Overview of Google Maps Timeline Update
Change to On-Device Storage
Google Maps Timeline data will now be stored directly on users’ devices rather than in the cloud. Previously, this data was stored on Google’s servers, but with the new update, it will reside on your personal device. Additionally, the default data deletion period is changing from 18 months to just 3 months.
Therefore, it is possible that your Google Timeline has not gone missing, but instead resides on your cellphone.
Why is Google making these changes?
This update aims to improve user privacy. By storing Timeline data on mobile devices, Google eliminates the risk of broad geofence warrants that previously allowed law enforcement to request data about devices near a specific location. Furthermore, it addresses allegations that Google misleads consumers by tracking their locations if they left ‘Web & App Activity’ on, but ‘Location History’ off.
What This Means for Users
No More Web Access
Google Timeline data will no longer be accessible on the web. However, you will only be able to view your Timeline on the device where the data is stored. The update is rolling out gradually in 2024. In fact, many users’ Timeline has already migrated to their devices.
Data Preservation
To preserve your existing Timeline data, you need to take action before December 1, 2024. If you do not update your settings by this deadline, your past Timeline data may be deleted. Hence, this step is important to ensure your Google Timeline doesn’t go missing.
Steps to Preserve Timeline Data
Saving Data
First, update the Google Maps app on the device you wish to save the data to. You may receive a notification with instructions for the new update. Follow these instructions to save your Timeline data on your device.
Furthermore, change the Timeline’s automatic deletion time from 3 months to “never” to ensure your timeline doesn’t get deleted after a while.
Backup Options
You also have the option to back up an encrypted copy of your Timeline data to your Google account. This backup ensures that you can transfer your Timeline data to a new device if necessary or recover your data if your device is lost.
You may also use Google Takeout to extract your Location history to integrate the data with other programs.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Missing Timeline Data
If you cannot find your Timeline data after the update, ensure that you have followed the steps to save the data on your device. Furthermore, check if your Google Maps app is updated and if you have enabled Location History.
Device-Specific Data
With the new update, Timeline data is device-specific. If you need to switch devices, make sure to back up your data and transfer it to the new device. This step will help maintain continuity in your location history.
Addressing Concerns for Work-Related Tracking
These changes may seem frustrating, especially for users who rely on Google Timeline for work. However, by understanding the new system and taking proactive steps, you can continue to use Google Timeline effectively.
Furthermore, consider using other route-tracking apps like MileageWise. This app offers similar functionality and can serve as a reliable backup or alternative to Google Maps Timeline.
Download MileageWise’s automatic mileage tracker app from Google Play or the App Store & try it for free for 14 days. No credit card required!
MileageWise, the Saviour of the Self-Employed
MileageWise is a powerful mile-tracking app that can serve as an alternative to Google Maps Timeline. It offers features like automatic trip logging, detailed reports, and easy data export, making it a great choice for personal and especially work-related tracking.
Google Maps Timeline or MileageWise?
Both MileageWise and Google Maps Timeline offer robust route-tracking capabilities. However, MileageWise specializes in vehicle tracking for tax deductions. It monitors every movement of your car and creates detailed reports ready for tax filing.
Setup Guide
Setting up MileageWise is straightforward. Download the app, create an account, and follow the prompts to start logging your trips. The app’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to manage your routes and data.
However, use MileageWise’s accompanying Web Dashboard for comprehensive trip management, detailed log creation, trip recovery, and in-depth analytics.
Conclusion
The Google Maps Timeline update brings significant changes, emphasizing privacy and on-device storage. By understanding these updates and taking the necessary steps to preserve your data, you can continue to use Timeline effectively. Additionally, exploring alternative solutions like MileageWise can provide you with more specialized and comprehensive solutions.
FAQs
With the latest update, Google Maps Timeline data is stored directly on your device rather than in the cloud. As a result, Timeline data is no longer accessible via the web. You can only view it on the device where the data is stored.
It is also possible that the disappearance is not related to the update, but simply that the settings enable automatic deletion or if location services were disabled on your device.
If you do not take action to update your settings, Google may delete your Timeline data after December 1, 2024. Ensure you update your Google Maps app and back up your data to avoid losing it.
To keep your Timeline data, update your Google Maps app and change the data deletion setting from 3 months to “never.” You can also back up an encrypted copy to your Google account or use Google Takeout to export your data.
MileageWise is a notable alternative, especially for work-related tracking. It offers features like automatic trip logging, detailed reports, and easy data export. It’s particularly useful for tracking vehicle mileage for tax deductions.
