Google has always strived to ensure that its apps on Android devices work in conjunction with each other. It’s a fine line to walk, because Google doesn’t want to make some of its apps obsolete by integrating features across users’ libraries. However, when Google walks that line perfectly, it fills a hole that no one really noticed in the first place. We noticed back in May thatGoogle Contacts could integrate Google Maps’ location sharing abilityin a future revamp. That seems to have officially rolled out.
We first noticed through@Nail_Sadykov on Xthat Google was revamping Contacts with an added location sharing module. The screenshot that was shared then included some other design changes, such as new call, text, video, email, and direction buttons being placed inside individual circles to help them stand out more. We thought that the location sharing node might come with the launch of Android 14 at the start of Q4, but that didn’t happen.
Now, as ofGoogle Contacts version 4.22.37.586680692, it appears to have rolled out to multiple members of our Android Police squad. If you have a person’s Gmail address saved in Contacts, and if they’ve already been actively sharing their location with you on Google Maps, then you’ll see the small Google Maps module underneath the options to call and text them. It tells you whether they can see your location, and pressing inside the module opens their location in Google Maps. From there, you may get directions to head straight to them or set up notifications for when they arrive where you are.
It’s a pretty simple addition that makes a lot of sense for no other reason except for simplicity’s sake. It’s simple to use, and it gives the decision to use Google Contacts a pretty solid choice if you’re already in the sphere of Google influence as-is. If you’ve never used location sharing before on Google Maps,it’s pretty easy to do, and it’s a lot more comprehensive than just tracking where someone is when you want to consensually stalk them.
Google Contacts is the main contacts application for Pixel devices (obviously) but can be downloaded across all devices with access to Google Play. It’s an essential app for many, but for some, itssync settings can be a blessing and a curse. It’s got a lot going for it overall, like itswidget that retains functionality with a new lookor its ability tohighlight your favorite and recent searches. No matter what you like about it, it’s important to know how toget rid of duplicates that you may have accrued over years of use.
