COLUMBUS, Ohio — Family location-sharing is set to change for Apple and Snapchat users.
Consumer 10 looked into what the features will mean for parents and travelers. Neither company has said when it will be live for users.
Here’s a breakdown of the new settings.
Apple
Comprehensive Location Sharing
- Multiple app integrations: Users can now share their location through the Find My app, Messages app and Maps app.
- Automatic sharing: When the family organizer enables location sharing, their location is automatically shared with all family group members.
- Individual control: Each family member can choose whether to share their location after the initial setup.
Advanced Notification System
- Arrival and departure alerts: Users can set up notifications for when family members arrive at or leave specific locations.
- Time-based notifications: Alerts can be configured for when a family member isn't at a particular place during a specified time window.
Device Flexibility
- Multi-device support: Users can choose which of their devices to use for location sharing.
- Lost device assistance: Family members can help locate lost devices, including viewing online/offline status, playing sounds and activating Lost Mode.
Snapchat
Location Sharing
- Live location requests: Parents and caregivers can now request their teen to share their live location through Family Center.
- Reciprocal sharing: Parents can also share their own location, promoting two-way communication.
- Opt-in system: All location-sharing features require user opt-in for privacy protection.
Improved Parental Visibility
- Settings transparency: Parents will soon be able to view their teen's location-sharing settings with friends on SnapMap.
- Friend-only sharing: Snapchat emphasizes that location can never be shared with non-friends.
Travel Safety Features
- Designated locations: Families can set up to three specific locations on SnapMap (e.g., home, school, gym).
- Arrival/departure notifications: Parents receive alerts when their teen arrives at or leaves these designated locations.
Safety Reminders and Default Settings
- Default privacy: Location sharing is off by default on Snapchat.
- New friend alerts: Users receive reminders to review their location-sharing settings when adding new friends.