Can google know my location if using maps?

Sigbjorn

I have been looking for a privacy-focused alternative for navigation in my pixel 9a. I tried magic earth but location doesn't seem to work. I tried also with other apps and I also controlled that accurate location option was activated. Should I give google play services permission to my location so that it can work correctly?

MetropleX

Sigbjorn out of the box all Location is done solely using OS API and GPS only. This means for initial lock line of sight to the sky for up to 5 minutes to enable AGPS/SUPL almanacs to be downloaded. A lock thereafter should be quicker.

GrapheneOS also provides our own Network Location option under SETTINGS>SECURITY & PRIVACY>PRIVACY CONTROLS>LOCATION ACCESS (Bottom of list)>LOCATION SERVICES

Under both Network Location and Geocoder select GrapheneOS proxy and enable WIFI/BT scanning.

If none of the above works for you then yes installing sandboxed Play Services and following the instructions when tapping on the Play Services is running notification to enable Googles NLP is also an option.

That all being said however I've used Organic Maps and just GPS for all my nav needs without hiccup.

DeletedUser416

MetropleX Organic Maps

I'm not implying Organic Maps shouldn't be used, but I think you should be aware of this:
https://www.comaps.app/news/2025-04-16/1/

LGgos

I was able to use Magic Earth without Play Services

Naturally yes, allowing Play Services your location will send your location to Google (although I think only Google Maps contributes to the visible Timeline, and only if you have Timeline enabled)

MetropleX

DeletedUser416 no thanks for headsup (more on CoMaps than anything will be testing it out) I've no loyalty to OM by any means just always worked and helped with the reply. Thanks again.