Update, March 8, 2025: This article, originally published on March 7, has been updated with the latest details on Google’s data deletion policy, which affects users’ Timeline data and inactive Google accounts. If you want to retain your important data, swift action is required before the respective deadlines.
Google’s Timeline Data Deletion Deadline: May 18, 2025
Amid growing privacy concerns surrounding AI-powered security updates for Android devices, Google has issued another critical data warning. Users must update their privacy settings before May 18, 2025, to preserve their Timeline data in Google Maps.
Google confirmed via email on March 6 that users need to adjust their settings to prevent Timeline data loss. If these changes are not made, all stored visit and route data will be permanently deleted.
While this shift enhances security and privacy, it also means Google is relocating Timeline data from its cloud servers directly to users’ smartphones. This change provides better protection as the data remains locally stored, benefiting from device-based security measures.
What You Need to Do to Keep Your Google Maps Timeline Data
If you have enabled the Timeline feature, you likely received a notification about these changes. Timeline, previously known as Location History, tracks your movements and displays them on a map. However, going forward:
- If Timeline remains enabled, visits and routes will be stored only on individual devices.
- Devices that previously had location history turned off will now save Timeline data unless manually adjusted.
- If no action is taken, all Timeline data will be erased, and the feature will be disabled after May 18, 2025.
To retain your Timeline data:
- Update your Google Maps app.
- Navigate to Timeline settings and modify your privacy preferences before May 18.
- Choose whether to keep Timeline enabled or disable it entirely for added privacy.
Google’s Inactive Account Deletion Policy: What You Need to Know
Google is also implementing an account deletion policy that could impact inactive accounts. The rule applies to personal Google accounts that have been inactive for two years or more. Google’s security experts found that such accounts are ten times less likely to have two-factor authentication enabled, making them more vulnerable to security breaches.
If you haven’t used your Google account in a while, it may be at risk of deletion. To prevent this, Google advises users to sign in before April 3, 2025.
How to Keep Your Google Account Active
To prevent deletion, simply log in to your Google account or perform any of the following actions:
- Send or read an email.
- Use Google Drive.
- Watch a YouTube video.
- Share a photo via Google Photos.
- Download an app from Google Play.
- Use Google Search.
- Sign in to a third-party service using Sign in with Google.
Important Note: This policy only applies to personal accounts. Accounts linked to organizations, such as businesses or educational institutions, will not be affected.
Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Stay Secure
These updates reflect Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance security and protect user data. While these policies aim to improve privacy, they also require users to take proactive steps to retain their information.
If you rely on Google services, ensure you update your Timeline settings and keep your accounts active to avoid losing essential data. With deadlines fast approaching, now is the time to act!
