Monitor and Distribute People's Location and Display Your Own on Google Maps
Last Updated: July 24, 2025
In today's digital age, keeping track of our loved ones' whereabouts has become easier than ever, thanks to Google Maps. Darlene Antonelli, MA, a skilled wordsmith and grammar expert, guides us through the process of tracking someone's location on this popular navigation app.
To get started, both the person sharing their location and the one doing the tracking need Google accounts. Here's how to track someone's location on Google Maps:
**On Mobile (Android or iOS):**
1. The person sharing location opens Google Maps on their phone, taps their profile picture, and selects "Location sharing."
2. They tap "New share" (or set up sharing if it's their first time), choose how long to share (e.g., a set time period or “Until you turn this off”), then select your Google account or send a shareable link through messaging apps.
3. Once shared, you receive a notification or link to view their real-time location.
4. To view location, open Google Maps on your phone, tap your profile picture, go to "Location sharing," and see the list of people sharing their location with you. Their live location appears on the map, along with movement and battery info if available.
**On Desktop:**
1. Open a web browser and go to Google Maps (maps.google.com).
2. Sign in to your Google account.
3. Click the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-left corner.
4. Select "Location sharing." You will see all people who have shared their location with you.
5. Click the person's name or icon to see their current location on the map.
It is essential to note that location sharing requires explicit consent from the person sharing their location. They can stop sharing at any time, and tracking will cease if their device is offline.
Location updates happen in real-time, even in the background, and the sharer's name, location, profile picture, device's battery status, and recent locations are shared. Multiple people can be selected to share your location with, but participants must opt in for you to see their information.
Darlene Antonelli, the author of this article, has been writing and editing tech content at the website since 2019. She holds a BA (2011) and an MA (2012) from Rowan University in Writing, with a focus on workplace communication. Her expertise extends beyond tech writing, as she has previously worked for AppleCare, served as a writing tutor, volunteered in IT at an animal rescue, and taught as an adjunct professor for EN101 and EN102.
For ongoing family tracking, the sharer can add family members' Google accounts for seamless updates. However, location sharing may not be available for Google Workplace domains, as your administrator can decide if they want to allow this feature or not.
The Google Maps app allows you to track someone's location if they have shared it with you, but it is important to respect their privacy and only use this feature with their explicit consent.
[1] Google Support - Share your location with friends: https://support.google.com/maps/answer/6291746 [2] Google Support - Stop sharing your location with someone: https://support.google.com/maps/answer/6291757 [3] Google Support - Location Sharing: https://support.google.com/maps/answer/6291746?hl=en&ref_topic=6291745
- To enhance home safety and keep tabs on a loved one while traveling, consider using Google Maps' location sharing feature on your smartphone or computer.
- Integrating technology into your lifestyle is made easier with Google Maps, as it provides a way to track someone's location, making travel and staying connected hassle-free.
- Beyond helping with travel arrangements, Google Maps' technology also has practical applications, such as using it for ongoing family tracking and ensuring everyone arrives safely at home.
