A technical glitch during Google’s Maps Timeline update has caused irreversible data loss for some users.

Google has inadvertently deleted some users’ Maps Timeline data, permanently wiping years of location history with no way to retrieve it—unless they had opted for encrypted cloud backups.

The Timeline feature, previously known as Location History, allows users to track their past locations, offering a detailed history of where they’ve been. While some consider it an invasion of privacy, many rely on it to recall trips, track commutes, or revisit past locations.

What Went Wrong?

Google is in the process of overhauling Timeline storage, moving away from cloud-based storage to device-only data for enhanced privacy. The transition, which began in December 2024, has not gone smoothly for all users.

Due to a technical error, Google accidentally deleted Timeline data for an unspecified number of people. If users had not enabled encrypted cloud backups, their location history is now permanently lost.

Who’s Affected?

According to Google, the company is aware of the exact users impacted and has sent out emails notifying them of the error. If you haven’t received such an email, your Timeline data is safe.

A Google spokesperson confirmed that the loss was due to a technical issue, not user error or an intentional change. However, this is little consolation to those who have lost their entire location history with no possibility of restoration.

What’s Next for Google Maps Timeline?

Despite the setback, Google is continuing its Timeline transition to a more privacy-focused model. Once fully implemented, location history will be stored only on individual devices instead of Google’s servers.

While this move is meant to enhance user privacy, the recent mishap raises concerns about data reliability and storage security during major software transitions.

For those still using Google Maps Timeline, enabling encrypted cloud backups may be the only safeguard against future data losses.