Part of Google's general March 2026 update is the ability to share your live location directly inside the Messages app. It was previously on the beta app, specifically version 20260313_00_RC00.phone.openbeta_dynamic (which I currently still have, given regional differences), and is now rolling out gradually for everyone.
Before, you could already share your location through Maps. But that required switching apps, generating a link, and sending it manually. It was annoying because many users love Google's chat app, but location sharing is a feature they already rely on elsewhere, including WhatsApp. It's nice to see the company adding another useful feature alongside the trash folder.
Let loved ones find you with real-time location sharing
The Find Hub, which sits on top of Google Maps powers Google's new location sharing inside Google Messages. It enables you to share your live location directly inside a conversation and allows loved ones to find you easily. It's also a great device-tracking system for your lost gadgets.
Enable your location in the Quick settings so that your device accurately detects where you are. Then enter Google Messages and tap the circled + icon in the bottom left corner of a chat to access all available attachments. You should see the Real-time location option. Select it and choose how long you want the recipient to monitor your whereabouts.
You can choose one hour, until you turn this off, today only, or set a custom duration where you decide your visibility. Press send and they'll receive a link to the Find Hub interface web or app interface, depending on whether they installed the app or not. Regardless, they'll see your location and even your device's battery status.
You'll also see a pill-shaped alert at the top of the chat. It notifies you of the estimated time until your location shuts off. Tap it, or the sent link, and you'll be able to stop sharing altogether.
A colored dot appears on the circled + icon while location sharing is still active. It's your reminder whenever you open chats, so don't forget to disable it when you no longer need it.
iPhone users can see your location too
Real-time location sharing in Google Message works the same way if you send it to iPhone users. So, you're not limited to your Android buddies. They'll see the link, which takes time to the findhub.app.google interface through their default browser.
It's also worth noting that the feature doesn't work with Battery Saver on. Disable it to use the feature. It's expected, given that the process depends on constant background activity. Your phone has to keep its GPS active, update your position, and send that data as it happens.
Battery Saver is designed to do the exact opposite, such that it reduces background processes, limits location updates, and can even pause syncing entirely to conserve power.
If you haven't already, download Google Messages from the Play Store and enjoy Rich Communication Service (RCS) features. You ‘ ll receive new ones coming out of Beta testing soon, like the trash folder.
