Imagine finding yourself in a stranded situation with a broken-down car, and you’re unsure of your exact location because you’ve had to stop in an unfamiliar area. While calling for help is an option, it may not be very effective if you can’t provide your precise whereabouts. Fortunately, if you have Google Maps GPS navigation installed on your smartphone, you’re in luck. Google Maps offers a feature that can prove invaluable in such situations, eliminating the need for other applications like WhatsApp.
Often, we’ve needed to share our location due to unexpected mishaps, and our go-to solution has been WhatsApp. However, it’s worth noting that messaging services like WhatsApp may have their server glitches, resulting in inaccurate location sharing. This issue can also affect other messaging tools like Telegram or similar apps that aren’t specifically designed for this purpose.
Enter Google Maps, primarily known for guiding us along our chosen routes and simplifying our journeys. However, Google Maps has an additional utility, one that pertains to sharing our current location. But do you know how to send your location through Google Maps? We’ll break it down for you below.
How to Share Your Location with Google Maps
To send your location from Google Maps, start by downloading the Google Messages application from the Play Store if you haven’t already. Once installed, open an existing conversation or initiate a new one with the person you wish to share your location with. Within the Google Messages chat, click on the “+” button located to the left of the text input box. Among the various options, look for “Location.”
Next, a screen will display the Google Map with your current location. You also have the option to manually select a different location by sliding your finger across the map. When you’re ready, a Google Maps link to the location you’ve chosen will be sent to the recipient. Additionally, you can send other message types, such as photos, audio, and videos, which will be transmitted in MMS format.
Important Note on Messaging via Google App
This communication method is facilitated through the RCS (Rich Communication Services) protocol. It allows you to send SMS messages without requiring cellular coverage because the messages are sent through your mobile operator. Keep in mind that the person you’re sending this text message to should be in your contact list.
Are SMS in the Google App Free?
You might be wondering whether SMS messages sent from the Google Maps application incur any costs. The answer depends on your mobile plan. SMS messages sent through this service are free when used for casual chatting, similar to a WhatsApp conversation, allowing you to send SMS messages without any obligation. However, when sending messages containing media such as images (MMS), there may be associated costs.
In any case, Google Maps serves as a powerful tool to assist you in emergencies, ensuring you can share your precise location when accidents or unforeseen events occur, facilitating a prompt response from your contacts or emergency services.