Google Maps Has A Private Mode For Users: All You Need To Know

Launched in 2005, Google Maps is one of the tech giant's leading web mapping platform and consumer application that offers real-time traffic conditions, satellite imagery, street maps, 360-degree interactive panoramic views of streets and shows directions for traveling via various modes of transportation or by foot. With over 10 billion downloads on Google Play Store, the application is available in most of the countries across the globe, helping people in multiple ways.

While Google Maps has proven to be an incredibly useful app for many of the users, its certain features have also raised concerns over privacy and potential exposure of sensitive information.

It is often scary to imagine that someone is always aware of small details about your whereabouts, including the routes you take, the places you visit, the amount of time you spend there, and how long it takes you to commute.

With many people being concerned about their privacy, the Incognito mode in Google Maps can be a handy option as it provides you the option of controlling your privacy while using the app.

Once the Incognito mode is on in Google Maps, the user's activity, including the places you search for or navigate to, is not saved in the Google account. When the Incognito mode is on, the app does not save the users' browsing or search history in their accounts, or send notifications; use the users' activity to personalise Maps; or update the location history or shared location.

How to turn on Incognito mode for Google Maps in Android devices:

Step 1 Open the Google Maps app on your phone or tablet.

Step 2 Tap the profile icon in the top-right corner of the screen to access your Google account.

Step 3 Tap Turn on Incognito mode.

To turn off the Incognito mode on Google Maps, users are advised to follow the same steps.

How to turn on Incognito mode for Google Maps in iOS devices:

Step 1 Open the Google Maps app on your iPhone or iPad.

Step 2 In the top right corner of the screen, tap your profile picture.

Step 3 Tap Turn on Incognito mode

However, there are certain features that are not available for use in Google Maps in Incognito mode. Some of these include commute, following, location history, location sharing, notifications and messages, search history, search completion suggestions, Google Assistant microphone in navigation, offline maps and media integration among others.