Google has released a new app called Trusted Contacts that uses location based tracking to allow friends and family to keep tabs on each other. The idea is that people will be able to let others track their movements in the event that they happen to be doing something that might be dangerous or unsafe.
Users are asked to select several trusted contacts once the app is installed, and this list will form the number of people who will receive updates in the event that the app is turned on. Google’s announcement indicates this is for times when people go hiking, or are walking home late at night without company.
Naturally, location tracking is not turned on all the time. Instead, Trusted Contacts only begins sharing this information once the user wants it activated; which should allay some fears of being tracked by unwanted apps. Nevermind that Android is already keeping track of people anyway.
The app also allows concerned friends and family to request a person’s location in the event that they suspect something has happened. In this case, the user of the app can choose whether or not he or she wants to be found.
Trusted Contacts is now available on the Google Play store now.
