GoKawiilJoe Maring / Android Authority
Real-time location sharing is a core feature of any popular messaging app, but for years, it has not been available in Google Messages. However, that’s finally changing.
As of March 20, real-time location sharing is finally rolling out to Google Messages users. With just a couple of taps, you can send your location to anyone so they can keep tabs on where you are. Whether you’re trying to meet up with friends for a night out or want to stay safe while running, hiking, etc., there are so many scenarios where this can be immensely helpful.
Ready to get started? Here’s what you need to know.
Are you going to use real-time location sharing in Google Messages? 13 votes Yes, I've been waiting so long for this feature. 38 % Maybe, I'm not sure. 31 % No, I don't have any use for it. 31 %
What you need to access Google Messages’ real-time location sharing
Joe Maring / Android Authority
Although we first spotted real-time location sharing in Google Messages back in February, it wasn’t until late March that the feature actually began rolling out to users. At the time of publication, the feature is rolling out widely to the Messages app.
A couple of my Android Authority colleagues spotted real-time location sharing in the beta version of the Google Messages app, specifically version 20260313_00_RC00.phone.openbeta. However, you don’t have to be enrolled in the Messages beta to use it.
Real-time location sharing is available on two of my Android phones, including version messages.android_20260306_02_RC03.phone_dynamic
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