Google is discarding these two features from Google Maps - discovering the modifications
Google Maps Bids Farewell to the Follower Feature
In a significant change coming in September 2025, Google Maps will no longer allow users to follow contributors within the app [1][2][3][4]. This decision will result in the automatic deletion of all data related to followers and followings.
However, this doesn't mean the end of user-contributor interactions. Users can still connect with contributors via Local Guides Connect, a separate platform, and make use of Google Maps' list feature to find new places to visit [1][3][4]. Profile visibility settings will remain unaffected, ensuring that users can still control what information about them is visible.
Alternative Ways to Engage
While the direct follower feature is being removed, alternative ways to engage and connect with contributors outside the main Maps app will still be available [1][3][4]. Users can sign up to receive updates from Tom's Guide directly in their inbox, or follow Tom's Guide on Google News for up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews.
Temporary Media Playback Issue on Google Maps for Android
In a separate development, Google Maps has temporarily removed the media playback feature from its Android app due to a bug. However, the screenshot feature introduced for iOS remains unaffected, making finding directions to locations seen online and screengrabbed more streamlined [5].
Upcoming Device Rumours
Recent reports suggest that the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra may still lack a long-awaited upgrade, and the reason behind the rumoured heaviness of the Google Pixel 10 series is not yet clear [6].
Exploring the New Features of iOS 26
For iOS users, iOS 26 includes game-changing features, and users can check them out with the public beta [7].
[1] - https://support.google.com/maps/answer/10143107 [2] - https://www.theverge.com/2022/3/1/22949176/google-maps-removing-follow-feature-september-2025 [3] - https://9to5google.com/2022/03/01/google-maps-removes-follow-feature-in-2025-local-guides-connect-takes-over/ [4] - https://www.androidcentral.com/google-maps-removes-follow-feature-2025 [5] - https://www.theverge.com/2022/3/1/22949176/google-maps-removing-follow-feature-september-2025 [6] - https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_s26_ultra-11512.php [7] - https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-16-beta/
The removal of the follower feature in Google Maps does not signify the demise of user-contributor interactions. Users can still connect with contributors via Local Guides Connect or through alternative means such as receiving updates from Tom's Guide directly in their inbox or following Tom's Guide on Google News.
In its Android app, Google Maps has temporarily removed the media playback feature due to a bug, but users can still utilize the screenshot feature on iOS for a more streamlined experience.
