Google Messages is poised to become an even more integrated communication hub with the addition of real-time location sharing, powered by the company’s Find Hub service. The feature, currently in beta testing, will allow users to share their location directly within message conversations, offering a more convenient alternative to sending static Google Maps links.
The update, first spotted through code decompilation by 9to5Google, builds upon existing location-sharing capabilities within Messages. Currently, users can share their current position as a pinpoint on a map. The upcoming integration promises a dynamic, live view of a user’s location, similar to the experience offered by dedicated location-sharing apps.
According to code strings discovered in the latest Google Messages beta (version 20260220_01_RC00), the feature is designed to be seamless and user-friendly. A tooltip within the app explains the functionality: “Make it effortless for friends to find where you are without leaving Google Messages.” Users will be able to share their location for a specified duration – one hour, for the day, or until manually turned off – mirroring the options already available when sharing a static location.
The move signals a broader strategy by Google to consolidate location-sharing features within its ecosystem. A recent update to the Find Hub app (version 3.1.532-3, released today) suggests the company is aiming to bring the full functionality of Google Maps’ location sharing to the standalone Find Hub application. Currently, Find Hub lacks the ability to receive alerts when a shared contact arrives at or departs from a specified location – a feature available in Google Maps.
This latest development suggests Google is increasingly positioning Find Hub as the central hub for all location-related services, streamlining the experience for users across its various apps. While the Google Messages feature remains in beta and is not yet available to the public, it underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing the messaging experience with integrated, real-time functionality.
Users interested in testing the feature can join the Google Messages beta program via the Google Play Store. The rollout timeline for the wider release remains unclear.
Worth a look
