Instagram is apparently testing a new setting that will allow it to share your location data with its parent company Facebook. According to a report published on The Next Web, the feature, which appears under Instagram’s privacy settings was first spotted by Jane Wong, a researcher from Hong Kong.
What basically this means is that using GPS tracking, Facebook will be able to track your movements as an Instagram user even when you’re not using the app.
The settings say the Location History will allow Facebook products, including Instagram and Messenger, to build and use a history of precise locations received through Location Services on your devices.
The app would use GPS tracking to locate Instagram users even when they’re not using the app.
A description of the feature in a screenshot shared by Wong says ‘’When Location History is on, Facebook will periodically add your current precise location to your Location History even if you leave the app. You can turn off Location History at any time in your Location Settings on the app. When Location History is turned off, Facebook will stop adding new information to your Location History which you can view in your Location Settings. Facebook may still receive your most recent precise location so that you can, for example, post content that’s tagged with your location.’’
Should this really surprise us? Not really considering Instagram is a Facebook product. About when the feature will be officially rolled out we’re not sure. A Facebook spokesperson, however, told TechCrunch that they often work on ideas that may evolve over time or ultimately not be tested or released.
‘’Instagram does not currently store Location History; we’ll keep people updated with any changes to our location settings in the future.” the spokesperson said.
