Google Maps uses anonymized location data to gauge business occupancy

VERA Brief

AI-generated. Grounded in the article and its cited sources.

Google Maps is using anonymized location history data to estimate business popularity. This feature helps users find less crowded venues by showing real-time busyness levels.

Key facts

• Google Maps uses anonymized location history data to estimate business popularity.
• This feature aggregates data from users who have opted into Location History.
• The busyness levels are presented in hourly increments.
• The aim is to help users make informed decisions about when to visit venues.