Google Messages could soon make it much easier to tell someone exactly where you are. A new feature spotted in development would allow users to share their live location directly inside a chat, updating in real time as they move.
The feature has been discovered by Android Authority in an APK teardown of Google Messages. It shows Google is working on built-in real-time location sharing, similar to what many users already rely on in apps like WhatsApp or Telegram.
Unlike sharing a static location pin, this option would update continuously, showing your movement for a chosen period of time.
How live location sharing in Messages would work
The new Real-time Location option will appear inside the attachment sheet of a conversation. Tapping on it starts the location sharing process. If location access has not been granted yet, the app will first ask for permission.
Users can then choose how long their live location stays active. The options include one hour, today only, or a custom duration. While sharing is active, Google Messages will display a persistent banner at the top of the conversation.
One notable detail is how recipients receive the location. Even if the other person does not have the feature enabled, they still get a live location link. If they have the Google Find Hub app installed, the link opens there. Otherwise, it opens in a web browser with real-time updates.
Location sharing can be stopped at any time by tapping the banner at the top of the chat and selecting Stop. There is no word yet on when the feature will roll out publicly.
But Google appears intent on turning Messages into a more complete communication app. Recent updates have added smarter tools, from scam text warnings to features that make sure your messages don’t get lost or ignored in busy group chats.
Source: www.digitaltrends.com
