We told you previously that Google Maps' Incognito mode was about to be released, and now it's finally happening. Google has rolled out this update to its Maps app, which will allow you to enjoy greater privacy. We'll explain how it works and, most importantly, how to activate it on your device.
What is incognito mode on Google Maps
As we mentioned in our tips on how to prevent Google from spying on you , the Mountain View company has a new feature in its navigation app that lets you use its features in incognito mode. With it, you can prevent Google Maps from recording some of your usual activity , better protecting your privacy.
This way, when you activate Incognito mode, you'll avoid several things:
- Have Google save your browsing or search history - when this is done, it stops the location history of the entire device, not just Maps.
- That it sends you notifications related to the places you have been - the typical message that appears on your phone asking you what you thought of a specific place.
- Not updating your location history or shared location, if any.
- Let Maps use your personal data to personalize the app and the information displayed.
As you'll see, incognito mode doesn't prevent Google from knowing where you are and tracking you —it's easy to think that with such a name—but at least it limits the information it collects about you and, above all, doesn't associate it with your Google account, eliminating any kind of record and activity history on your profile—which is no small thing.
When will Incognito mode be available?
After testing it during September with selected users, a community manager from the company has confirmed, in the Google Maps help forums, that the feature has already begun to roll out publicly and officially among Android phones .
As always happens in these cases, the update will be rolled out in phases, so if you don't have it available in your Google Maps yet, don't worry: it's just a matter of a few days before it appears in the app on your smartphone.
How to activate incognito mode on Google Maps
Now that you know all its features, you might be wondering how to activate Incognito Mode on your phone. The procedure is very simple, and we'll explain it in four easy steps :
- On your Android phone or tablet, open the Google Maps app .
- In the upper right corner, tap on your profile photo.
- You will see an option called Activate incognito mode.
- Tap on her.
Done. With just a couple of taps, you can activate Incognito Mode, which you can also deactivate in the same way. Keep in mind that when Incognito Mode is active, some features you usually use in Google Maps will be disabled , such as Commuter, For You, autofill suggestions, Google Assistant microphone navigation, and offline maps.
You will also not be able to share your location (obviously), receive notifications, enjoy the multimedia integration or the Your places option.
Do you think you will use this new option a lot?