Google has announced a new initiative to enhance user privacy by introducing an automatic deletion feature for location history on Google Maps.
According to technology sources, the internet giant will now automatically erase users’ location history after three months. This policy, set to take effect from December 1, 2024, ensures that only the most recent three months of location data will be stored, with older records permanently deleted.
In a blog post and email notifications to users, Google clarified that the move aims to provide better privacy controls and empower users to manage their personal data more effectively.
Previously, Google stored users’ location history on its cloud platforms, but in 2023, it shifted this data to users’ devices to enhance security. The new policy takes this effort further by implementing automated deletion for older data, requiring no manual intervention from users.
The initiative comes amidst longstanding criticism of Google for using user data for targeted advertising. This latest step is seen as an effort to rebuild trust and demonstrate a stronger commitment to privacy.
Technology experts have welcomed the change, viewing it as a positive step toward safeguarding users’ personal information. The update aligns with growing global demands for increased transparency and data protection in the tech industry.
