How to Delete Google Maps Search History and Timeline

Last reviewed: October 2026 · Independent guide, not affiliated with Google

Google Maps keeps two kinds of history. Maps history (searches, directions, places viewed) is saved to your Google Account as Web & App Activity. Timeline (formerly Location History) records where you’ve been.

Since Google’s 2024–2025 change, Timeline is stored on your device rather than in the cloud, and the web version of Timeline was discontinued. That means you delete Timeline from the Google Maps app on each phone, plus any encrypted backup.

At a glance

Time required: About 3 minutes
Maps history: Saved in your Google Account (Web & App Activity)
Timeline: Stored on your phone; optional encrypted cloud backup
Auto-delete: Available for both

Google Maps Help: manage your history (official site) ↗

Before you delete

Export Timeline first if you want to keep your trips (Settings > Location > Location services > Timeline > Export on Android).
Know which phone holds your Timeline — it isn’t on the web anymore.
Expect less personalised suggestions after deleting.

Delete Google Maps search history

Open the Google Maps app and tap your profile picture.
Tap Settings, then Maps history.
Tap Delete and choose Delete today, Delete custom range or Delete all time.
Confirm. To remove a single place, tap the X or three-dot menu next to it.

Menus change often. If a button has moved, use the search box in the app's settings or the official help link above.

Delete your Google Maps Timeline

In the Google Maps app, tap your profile picture > Your Timeline.
Tap the three-dot menu (or the settings icon) and open Location & privacy settings.
Tap Delete all Timeline data and confirm. To remove a single visit, open that day, tap the place and choose Remove.
If you turned on backup, delete the backup too (Timeline settings > Backups).

Stop future tracking

Go to myaccount.google.com > Data & privacy and turn off Timeline (Location History) for your devices.
Turn off or set auto-delete for Web & App Activity to stop saving Maps searches.
Use Incognito mode in Google Maps (profile picture > Turn on Incognito mode) for searches you don’t want saved.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between Maps history and Timeline?

Maps history covers searches and places you looked up. Timeline records places you visited and routes you took.

Why can’t I see my Timeline on the computer anymore?

Google moved Timeline to on-device storage and retired the web version, so it’s only in the Maps app on your phone.

How do I stop Google Maps from tracking my location?

Turn off Timeline in your Google Account and set Web & App Activity to off or auto-delete. You can also restrict Maps’ location permission on your phone.

Can I delete specific places from my Timeline?

Yes. Open the day in Your Timeline, tap the visit and choose Remove.