8:54 AM PDT · May 6, 2026
Image Credits:Silas Stein/picture alliance (opens in a new window) / Getty Images
Aisha Malik
Chrome on Android now supports approximate instead of precise location sharing
Chrome on Android now lets users share their approximate location with websites rather than their precise location, Google announced this week. The tech giant says that while some cases require precise location, such as when you’re placing a delivery order or trying to find the closest ATM, there are instances when your approximate location is enough, like when you’re getting access to local weather and news.
“By letting you share your approximate location, we’re giving you more control over your location data,” Google explained in a blog post. “And you can still share your precise location when it’s needed — e.g., for navigation — so you won’t lose functionality.”
Image Credits:Google
Google plans to bring this feature to the desktop in the coming months. The company did not share a timeline for when, or if, the feature will launch for Chrome on iOS.
The company will also be introducing new APIs that let web developers request either an approximate location or specify when a precise location is necessary. The tech giant says it encourages developers to review their location needs and only request precise location when it’s essential for the site’s functionality.
The new feature is a small win for Android users, as it gives them more control over how much location data they share with websites.
Topics
Android, Apps, Chrome, Google, In Brief
StrictlyVC Athens is up next. Hear unfiltered insights straight from Europe’s tech leaders and connect with the people shaping what’s ahead. Lock in your spot before it’s gone.
REGISTER NOW
Newsletters
See More
Subscribe for the industry’s biggest tech news
TechCrunch Daily News
Every weekday and Sunday, you can get the best of TechCrunch’s coverage.
TechCrunch Mobility
TechCrunch Mobility is your destination for transportation news and insight.
Startups Weekly
Startups are the core of TechCrunch, so get our best coverage delivered weekly.
StrictlyVC
Provides movers and shakers with the info they need to start their day.
No newsletters selected.
Subscribe
By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice.
Related
Security
Hack-for-hire group caught targeting Android devices and iCloud backups
Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai
Apr 8, 2026
Apps
Google introduces a new way for users to sideload Android apps that still protects against scams
Sarah Perez
Mar 19, 2026
Apps
Google settles with Epic Games, drops its Play Store commissions to 20%
Sarah Perez
Mar 4, 2026
Latest in Apps
In Brief
Chrome on Android now supports approximate instead of precise location sharing
Aisha Malik
6 hours ago
Apps
Tinder owner Match Group is slowing hiring to pay for its increased use of AI tools
Sarah Perez
6 hours ago
Apps
Bumble’s paying users are slipping as it bets on an overhaul later this year
