Google Confirms Accidental Deletion of Maps Timeline: Here's How to Recover Lost Data

 

Google Confirms Accidental Deletion of Maps Timeline: Here's How to Recover Lost Data

Unexpected Data Loss in Google Maps Timeline

Many users recently discovered that their Google Maps Timeline history had been erased due to an unexpected issue. Earlier this month, Google advised iOS and Android users to update their Timeline settings, transitioning data storage from Google’s cloud servers to local device storage. Those who failed to make this change risked losing their stored location history.

On Friday, Google reached out to certain users via email, explaining that "a technical issue" had resulted in the deletion of some users' Timeline data. This incident appears to be separate from Google's initiative to shift Timeline data storage onto users’ devices.

For those unfamiliar with Google Maps Timeline, this feature logs a user’s historical location data, effectively serving as a personal record of past trips, visited places, and travel routes. However, this functionality only works if Location History is enabled on the user’s device.

Potential Data Recovery Options

The email sent by Google indicated that users who had encryption-enabled backups stored on Google’s servers might still be able to retrieve their data. The restoration process requires running the latest version of Google Maps, which can be updated via the Play Store or App Store. To attempt recovery, users should navigate to their Timeline, tap the cloud icon near the top of the screen, and select a backup to import. Unfortunately, those who had not enabled backups beforehand will be unable to restore lost data.

Reports from Reddit suggest mixed results regarding data recovery. Some users could only restore location history from the past few weeks, while others managed to retrieve their entire Timeline data. Despite assumptions that location history might not be widely valued, numerous users expressed deep concern over the loss. One user lamented the permanent deletion of 15 years’ worth of travel data, calling it "devastating."

User Reactions and Concerns

Several affected users voiced frustration over Google's handling of the issue. One described Google's response email as "a non-apology" and "a joke," explaining that despite transitioning to on-device storage five months ahead of the May deadline, Google still erased his stored data immediately after the switch. He wrote, "How have they managed to delete data stored on my phone? This sucks so much and is concerning given how much I rely on other Google products. Shocking mistake to make and then just say 'oopsie.'"

Another user shared a similar grievance, calling the data loss "heartbreaking." He remarked, "I guess I didn't have backups enabled. I don't know even I know I had to enable it specifically, when everything else is happily backed up from the Pixel. That's 10+ years of trips gone. What a major cockup."

Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Data Loss

To mitigate the risk of accidental Timeline data loss, whether due to user error or technical issues, enabling Timeline backups is strongly recommended. Backups are not automatically activated, meaning users must manually turn them on. Google clarified that while primary Timeline data will be stored locally, visits and travel routes will be backed up to Google’s servers when the device is charging and connected to Wi-Fi. These backups do not count against Google account storage limits and are encrypted.

For users who prefer cloud storage and do not want to risk losing their Timeline history, backups can be enabled using the following steps:

1. Open Google Maps on your iOS or Android device.
2. Tap your profile icon in the upper right corner.
3. Select "Your timeline."
4. Tap the cloud icon next to "Timeline."
5. On the Backup page, toggle the backup option on and follow the provided instructions.

Issue Resolution and Google's Response

Google has since acknowledged and fixed the bug that led to Timeline data disappearing for some users. The problem, which caused missing visits and routes since early March, has now been addressed.

The company stated that "nearly" all users with encrypted Timeline backups should be able to restore their data, although some might face challenges in doing so. To retrieve lost data, users must ensure their Google Maps app is updated to the latest version on their iOS or Android device.

Steps to Recover Lost Data

To attempt data restoration from encrypted backups, follow these steps:

1. Open Google Maps and access "Your Timeline" from the account menu.
2. Tap the cloud icon.
3. Choose a backup or device from the list.
4. Click on the three-dot icon and select "Import."
5. Follow any additional instructions provided by Google.

Users who had not enabled backups before the deletion occurred will be unable to recover lost data. Google introduced this backup system as part of its efforts to enhance user privacy when it transitioned Timeline storage to on-device data handling.

Google's Commitment to Preventing Future Issues

In an effort to address user concerns, Google has begun notifying affected Maps users via email, providing them with instructions on restoring their data. A Google spokesperson stated, "We understand this can be frustrating if you use Timeline to remember places you've visited, and we are taking steps to improve our systems for the future."