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Google Maps for Android adds new location, check-in features

A few new options enhance Google Maps for Android, particularly for the social and stats-curious.

Jessica Dolcourt Senior Director, Commerce & Content Operations
Jessica Dolcourt is a passionate content strategist and veteran leader of CNET coverage. As Senior Director of Commerce & Content Operations, she leads a number of teams, including Commerce, How-To and Performance Optimization. Her CNET career began in 2006, testing desktop and mobile software for Download.com and CNET, including the first iPhone and Android apps and operating systems. She continued to review, report on and write a wide range of commentary and analysis on all things phones, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds. Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
Expertise Content strategy, team leadership, audience engagement, iPhone, Samsung, Android, iOS, tips and FAQs.
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Google Maps for Android location history
Location stats in the new Google Maps for Android 5.3. Google

Google has tweaked Google Maps for Android once again. Starting today, smartphones running Android 1.6 and up will see new location history and check-in features in Google Maps 5.3.

The first addition is for maps users who have enabled Google Latitude on their profile. If you choose to, you'll now be able to view stats and graphs of your location history, including estimates that break down how you allocate your time at work, home, or elsewhere.

Maps' second feature expands the pre-existing Latitude check-in option to let followers and friends know you're at home when you're not out. You can tap Home to associate your location with your personal fortress of solitude.

Finally, Google Maps 5.3 tweaks the way you rate establishments in Hotpot, its reviews engine. Now you can add not just comments, but traits that define a business, like a swanky bathroom, great music, or comfortable chairs.

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