[Update] Enable Automatic Location Sharing

The Google+ now allows you to automatically share your location with those that you choose. The feature is very similar to the idea behind Google Latitude. However, now the sharing is integrated into the Google+ profile.

New Location Settings Option

There is a brand new "Location Settings" option under the account settings for Google+. Under this is a check box to "Enable Location Sharing." As with everything pertaining to Google+, this setting can be made available only for yourself, the public, extended circles, or specific circles (see image below).

These granular settings allow users to have complete control over who knows their "best available location." The location is obtained from desktop (when the setting is selected) and any Android devices that a user has allowed location sharing. If you've already allowed location sharing for Google Now or Latitude, then checking the "enable location sharing" box will automatically allow for location sharing from those devices to those that you've chosen.

Profile now displays location.

The Google+ profile has received an update now that location sharing is allowed. On top of the cover photo, underneath a user's current place of employment, a line about where the user is currently located has been added. Again, this is only displayed to those that a user chooses.

Google Maps of current location is shown when hovering over "Currently in _____"

When hovering over the location with your mouse, you'll notice that a Google Map will appear displaying the user's currently location instead of the profile cover photo. Although, location simply said "Florida, USA," my map displayed that I am actually at the University of Central Florida.

A user's location is also displayed on their profile through the mobile app. Currently, the design of the Google Maps pin is poor, so I would expect this to be updated rather quickly with something more visually stimulating.

What do you think about the new ability to share your location through Google+? Let us know in the comments below!

Thanks for the tip +Davide Stefanini