Keeping track of friends and family is now easier as Google introducing a new feature allowing users to access real-time location data directly in the Contacts app, as reported by Phonearena. While location sharing is a valuable tool for staying connected and ensuring safety, the previous method through Google Maps was somewhat cumbersome. Google is gradually rolling out this feature for Android users through version 4.22.37.586680692 of the Google Contacts app.
Earlier In May, Phonearena had reported that upcoming updates for Google Contacts, in future, would include integration with Google Maps. The feature was projected to display the real-time location of contacts saved on the device. The much-awaited feature has officially launched and it is currently being rolled out globally, for all users.
Google Contacts now includes a location section within the contacts page for each contact, showcasing the users' location details.
First spotted by @Nail_Sadykov on X, Google was spotted overhauling Contacts by incorporating a new location sharing module.
The shared screenshot revealed additional design modifications, including placing call, text, video, email, and direction buttons inside individual circles for enhanced visibility. There was speculation that the location sharing feature might debut with the launch of Android 14 at the beginning of fourth quarter (Q4), but this expectation did not materialise, says a report by Android Police.
The ability to view someone's real-time location details may raise concerns for some users. Nevertheless, Google Contacts provides users with the option to decide whether they wish to share their location data with others. If they choose not to, there is an option to deny permission.
If a contact is sharing their location with you, a small Google Maps section will emerge in their contact card. This section displays the contact's current location and provides real-time updates. This sets it apart from the comparable Google Messages feature, which can only share a static snapshot of a user's location without live updates.
Earlier last week, Google started adding several enhancements to Maps, such as on-device location history, timeline creation and some noteworthy features to the blue dot representing the user's current location. The blue dot, which shows where a user is, on Google Maps, brings key location controls right to the fingertips. Tapping on the blue dot on Google Maps, will now let you see whether their Location History or Timeline settings are turned on and whether they have given Google Maps access to your device’s location.