Google is discontinuing its follower system for individuals on Google Maps this September, erasing all associated data.
Google Maps is sunsetting its individual follower feature this September. This change means all data tied to who you follow and who follows you will be removed from Google’s servers. The company first introduced a “Follow” button for businesses in 2018 (or 2019 on iOS), allowing users to get updates. In 2020, this evolved into a social feature enabling users to follow individuals, displaying their public activity like reviews and photos in a personal feed.
- Google Maps is ending its individual follower feature in September.
- All follower and following data will be deleted.
- The business follower feature was removed in January.
- Google suggests Local Guides Connect for community interaction.
What is happening to Google Maps followers? The company confirmed that “all data” related to followers will be deleted. While profile visibility settings remain unchanged, the absence of followers means users will no longer need to approve requests for restricted profiles. This move may be a relief for many, as the feature had become a target for spam bots.
The ability to follow businesses was previously removed in January. Google had already begun reducing the prominence of the “Follow” button on business listings, signaling this change was on the horizon.
For users who enjoyed following individuals, Google is directing them to Local Guides Connect. This online forum allows Local Guides to earn points by contributing reviews, photos, and map corrections. It’s designed to foster more direct community interaction, a goal the former follower feature didn’t quite achieve. Users can still create and share lists of places.
In related news, Google recently expanded its partnership with Rivian. The electric vehicle maker is now using the Google Maps Auto SDK for its trucks and SUVs, replacing its previous navigation system. This integration provides drivers with access to real-time traffic data and enhanced search capabilities for points of interest.
