Google Maps now lets you share real-time location with friends

You can now share your trips and real-time location with your family and friends directly from the Google Maps app for Android and iOS.

While it may sound creepy to some, but with the privacy options, this feature could be useful for those who no longer have to leave the app to share their location with their friends. Facebook already has a “nearby” feature that works similarly. The blog states,

““Where are you now?” and “What’s your ETA?” Whether you’re heading to a party or meeting up for dinner, you probably hear questions like this pretty often from family and friends. Soon Google Maps users worldwide will be able to answer those questions in just a few taps, without ever leaving the app.”

Steps to Share Location

• Whenever you want to let someone know where you are, just open the side menu or tap the blue dot that represents where you are.
• Tap “Share location” and then select who to share with and how long to share.
• You’ll see an icon above the compass on your own map which reminds you that you’re actively sharing your location. You can stop sharing at any time—it’s entirely up to you.

You can share your real-time location with your Google contacts, share with friends and family by sending a link on your messenger apps. When you’re sharing your location, the people you’ve chosen to share with will see you on their map.

Steps to Share Trip & ETA

You can share your real-time location and trip progress from navigation as well.

• Tap the “More” button on the bottom on the navigation screen
• Tap “Share trip.” Your friends will see your expected time of arrival (ETA) and can follow your journey as you head toward your destination. Sharing automatically ends when you arrive.

This feature is slowly rolling out globally to both Android and iOS. The people you share with will be able to see your location on Android, iPhone, mobile web, and even desktop.

Google Maps has been adding many new features recently including parking feature, wheelchair access, redesigned app interface with all commuting info at one place, getting Uber directly from the app and much more.