WhatsApp users can now share their movements in real-time within the hugely-popular chat app.
Dubbed Live Location, the new feature lets users track contacts’ movements for a spell of either 15 minutes, one hour or eight hours at a time.
Previously, WhatsApp allowed users to share their location as a stationary spot on a map.
Now, when users opt-in to Live Location, friends can see their location on the map, which automatically updates as they move.
WhatsApp says its new feature is “a simple and secure way to let people know where you are”.
Locations are end-to-end encrypted – like the messages, photos, videos and files you send within WhatsApp – which should allay some users’ fears about the feature.
You can also choose to prematurely end location sharing before the end of the designated time period.
WhatsApp imagines Live Location behind used by people trying to meet-up with friends, letting a loved one know they’re safe, or sharing a commute.
To start starting your location, open a WhatsApp conversation with the person or group you want to share with.
Under Location in the attach button, there’s a new option to Share Live Location.
WhatsApp will then prompt you to choose how long you want to share your GPS data. After you’ve decided, simply tap the Send button.
Each person within your chosen chat will now be able to see your real-time location on a map.
And if more than one person shares their Live Location in the group, all locations will be visible on the same map.
Live Location is available on both Android and iPhone and will be rolling out in the app in the coming weeks.