WhatsApp is no longer just for sending messages, photos, or videos. The app now offers a live location feature that lets you know a contact’s exact position in real time. Perfect for meeting up with friends, keeping an eye on family members, or reacting quickly in an emergency.
How to send your location to a contact
The location-sharing feature works on both Android and iPhone:
On Android:
- Open the WhatsApp chat with your contact.
- Tap the paperclip icon in the message bar.
- Select Location.
- Choose between Send your current location or Share live location for a set period of time.
On iPhone:
- Open the WhatsApp chat.
- Tap the “+” icon.
- Select Location, then choose Current Location or Share Live Location.
Your contact can open the location directly in Google Maps.
How to see a contact’s location
The process works the same way in reverse. Your contact must share their location from their device. Once you receive it, tap the location pin to view their exact spot on the map and track their movements in real time.
A handy everyday feature
This feature is perfect for organising meetups, making sure your kids arrive safely, or following a friend on the road. And since you can limit the sharing duration, your privacy remains protected.
This feature was added in 2017, almost 10 years ago… Thanks Internet Explorer.