Can You Track Your Loved Ones From Google Contacts?

In May 2023, Android Police reported that Google Contacts may incorporate location sharing capabilities in the future. Although the post said the feature could roll out with Android 14, that didn't happen. Now, as part of the latest update, the application has in fact deployed the possibility of sharing your location live with a contact. This could be a useful feature for those who are worried about the whereabouts of their loved ones.

Update your Google Contacts app to get location tracking functionality

Google Contacts version 4.22.37.586680692 contains the location sharing feature. If you have a Gmail address saved in the Google Contacts app and the user has shared their location via Google Maps, you will see a small Maps button below the options. Tapping this button opens a Google Maps route to the user's location, showing you directions and estimated time of arrival at the designated location. You can also set notifications when the user arrives near you.

The feature is more useful than it seems

This is a simple but effective addition as it allows you to keep tabs on your loved ones, where they are, and whether they have reached their intended destination. The Cards button is available in a person's contact section just below the name and the different options for contacting them. For this reason, if at any point you feel that the person is not on the right track or might need help, you can view their live location by tapping on the Google Maps and then go back to call him.

Of course, the feature only works if the other person has shared their location with you (and for the length of time they've shared the location). Additionally, the location tracking feature through contact cards is another reason why Android users use Google Contacts as their go-to calling app. Since Google has just started rolling out this feature, it may take some time for it to be available to everyone.

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