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Minor Google Maps update should stop friends & family panicking when tracking your location

If you’re in the habit of sharing your location with family or friends through Google Maps, a minor update to both iOS and Android maps should stop them panicking if you suddenly stop broadcasting …

Engadget reports that the latest version sends your battery level alongside your location.

By showing people you trust that your battery’s nearly empty, for instance, they won’t be as worried in case they can’t get in touch with you for the next hour or so. On the other hand, if they know your phone still has a lot of juice left and you’re not picking up when you’re supposed to be free to talk, then they can take action to make sure that you’re safe. It’s a small change with a big potential when it comes to safety.

Google Maps recently got a ‘match’ feature which attempts to predict which new restaurants it thinks you’ll enjoy. These recommendations are based on others you’ve visited in the past, as well as interests and ratings you’ve registered.


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Avatar for Ben Lovejoy Ben Lovejoy

Ben Lovejoy is a British technology writer and EU Editor for 9to5Mac. He’s known for his op-eds and diary pieces, exploring his experience of Apple products over time, for a more rounded review. He also writes fiction, with two technothriller novels, a couple of SF shorts and a rom-com!


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