The Timeline feature of Google Maps offers an invaluable glimpse into your travel history—provided you have retained that data to reflect upon.

Recently, numerous users of the Timeline function have reported unexpected data loss without any prior notification or clarification. A user on Reddit revealed how they lost an astonishing ten years’ worth of Timeline records seemingly overnight. Previously, they had the ability to navigate through every destination they visited over the last decade, but now they find themselves starting from the ground up.

The perplexing aspect of this issue is that Google had previously informed users about the potential for Timeline data loss. Last year, they announced plans to shift the Timeline feature from the web to individual mobile devices. Users were cautioned that failure to transfer their Timeline data in time could lead to irreversible loss.

Interestingly, the deadline for this transfer was set for June of this year, not March, making it unclear why data deletion would coincide with such a deadline.

Google Acknowledges Accidental Data Deletion

In response to the outcry, Google has issued a statement addressing the issue. According to a confirmation from The Verge, a technical fault caused the loss of Timeline data for a subset of users:

We experienced a temporary technical glitch that led to the deletion of Timeline data for certain users. Nearly everyone with encrypted Timeline backups will have the chance to retrieve their data; however, those who had not enabled backups will unfortunately not be able to restore their lost information.

Google seems to be actively communicating with affected individuals, so it’s beneficial to watch for an email containing recovery instructions, should retrieval be possible.

The Reddit user who initially reported the issue successfully restored their Timeline data once Google addressed it. After previous unsuccessful attempts at backup recovery, they were able to access their data correctly following Google’s instructions. It seems probable that Google may have implemented changes on their end to rectify the situation, though this remains unverified.

This unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder about the reliance on technology firms to manage personal data. Google’s immense presence may lead users to believe that the information shared will be perpetually secure. Yet it only takes a minor technical mishap for such data to vanish permanently. Today, it’s Timeline information; tomorrow, it could be cherished photos. It’s wise to be cautious with cloud-based features, so whenever the possibility arises, making additional backups outside of the cloud is a secure approach to safeguarding your data.

Recovering Your Lost Timeline Data

For those wishing to restore lost Timeline data, the sole method of recovery is through previous backups made via Google Maps. If you have backups, Google’s guidelines suggest updating to the latest version of the app, accessing your Timeline, and tapping the cloud icon at the top. This will allow you to choose a backup from which to recover your Timeline information.

If the backup option is absent, it likely indicates that no Timeline backup was created, and regrettably, your data may be lost for good.

Exporting Your Google Maps Timeline Data

If you still have access to your Timeline data, or manage to recreate it, and wish for a more reliable backup solution, manual data export is an option, as suggested by a Reddit user.

For Pixel users, navigate through Settings > Location > Location Services > Timeline > Export timeline data. On iOS, access the Google Maps app, tap on your profile picture, navigate to Your timeline, then select the three-dot menu in the upper right corner. From there, go to Location & privacy settings, choose Export Timeline data, and decide where to save your data.