To stop Google Maps from saving new visits and routes, turn off Timeline in your Google Account or in the Maps app. Google now calls this feature Timeline; turning it off stops new Timeline saves, but it does not automatically delete history already saved or disable every Google or device location feature.
Turn off Timeline in your Google Account
- Open Google Account Help’s Manage your Timeline data page and go to the Timeline setting for your account.
- Switch Timeline off using the control at the top of the Timeline section.
Google says, “When Timeline is off, your device doesn’t save its location to your Timeline.” Google is gradually updating settings across its services, so labels or placement may vary. If the control looks different, find Timeline in your Google Account settings and follow the equivalent option shown there.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Turn off Timeline in the Google Maps app
Android
- Open Google Maps and tap your profile picture or initial.
- Tap Your Timeline, then More (the three-dot menu).
- Choose Location and privacy settings.
- Tap Timeline is on, then choose Turn off under Timeline.
Google’s Android Timeline help describes a separate option, Turn off and delete activity. Choose that only if you also intend to delete eligible activity; read and confirm the deletion prompt rather than treating it as the ordinary off switch.
Recommended Free Tools
iPhone and iPad
In Google Maps, open Your Timeline and use Location and privacy settings to find the Timeline control. Google documents the iOS controls in its iPhone and iPad Timeline help. The exact sequence and wording may differ as settings roll out; use the equivalent Timeline off control shown in your app.
#1 Best Overall
- Attention-grabbing design meets the latest evolution of the Google Pixel Camera on the new Google Pixel 11 Pro; Gemini Intelligence helps manage details so you can live in the moment[1]; and the phone is available in two sizes
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan: Works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers[2]
- Stay informed without looking at your screen: When your phone is face down, Pixel HiLight gently alerts you with subtle glowing lights when your favorite contacts are calling or you’re talking with Gemini; exclusive to Google Pixel 11 Pro phones
- Magic Capture catches the moment as you live it: With just one tap, Pixel 11 Pro captures video and photos, and automatically edits, crops, and unblurs a curated collection, ready to share – and you get the memory of how it felt to be in the moment
- Two new cameras for more brilliant photos: A larger telephoto sensor captures 30% more light for clear, beautiful photos and videos, even in the dark[3]; Pixel’s longest zoom ever helps you capture details from impressive distances[4]
Computer
Google says Timeline is not available in Maps on a computer because Timeline data comes directly from the device. Use the Google Account setting to switch it off, and use the mobile Maps app to manage Timeline entries. See Google’s computer Timeline help.
What turning Timeline off does—and does not do
- It stops new Timeline saves. The change is about visits and routes saved to Timeline.
- It does not automatically remove past entries. Previously saved Timeline data may remain on devices where you are signed in; deletion is a separate action.
- It does not switch off every location-related setting. Google Location Services, Location Sharing, and Find Hub are separate. Web & App Activity or Search Services History may also retain other location-related information from your use of Google services.
Timeline is device-based: each eligible signed-in device saves its own visits and routes. Google also offers an optional encrypted server backup. Turning off or deleting a backup does not delete Timeline data saved on a device, and editing or deleting data on one device may not make the same change on other devices. Review Google’s Timeline data controls and Android Timeline help for the details relevant to your setup.
Rank #2
- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
Delete past Timeline data or set it to auto-delete
If you want old visits and routes removed, use deletion controls separately from turning Timeline off. On Android, open Google Maps → profile picture or initial → Your Timeline → More → Location and privacy settings.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →- Choose Delete range of Timeline data to remove a date range. Google also documents controls for deleting an individual day or visit.
- Choose Auto-delete Timeline to set automatic removal of older data. Google’s available periods are 3, 18, or 36 months.
Deleting data can be permanent. If you want broader removal, check other eligible signed-in devices and any Timeline backup as well; changes on one device may not apply everywhere. Google’s Timeline instructions explain these controls.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Google Pixel 7 is powered by Google Tensor G2; it’s faster, more efficient, and more secure, with the best photo and video quality yet on Pixel[1].Other camera description:Front,Rear.Bluetooth Version 5.2 with dual antennas for enhanced quality and connection.
- Unlocked Android 5G phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel’s Adaptive Battery can last over 24 hours; when Extreme Battery Saver is turned on, it can last up to 72 hours[3]
- The 6.3-inch Pixel 7 display is super sharp, with rich, vivid colors; it’s fast and responsive for smoother gaming, scrolling, and moving between apps[4]
- Google Pixel 7 has wide and ultrawide lenses with up to 8x Super Res Zoom[5]; and Cinematic Blur brings more drama to your videos
Rank #4
- Google Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design in two sizes, and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Get a head start on syncing your data before it even arrives: After you purchase your new Pixel, look for an email that explains how to transfer your photos, videos, passwords, and more in just a few quick steps[11]
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene with advanced Google AI models, and bring out incredible details with 100x Pro Res Zoom, stunning 50 MP images, and super steady videos in 8K[10]
- Pixel 10 Pro is built with durable aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance; the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with 3,300-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[3,13,18]
Choose the control that matches your goal
| Your goal | What to do | What it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Stop future visits and routes being added to Timeline | Turn Timeline off in your Google Account or Maps app. | Future Timeline saving; it does not itself delete past records. |
| Remove visits and routes already saved | Use the delete-range, delete-day, or delete-visit control; review other devices and backup state. | Existing Timeline data selected for deletion; other Google or device location settings remain separate. |
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
