Instagram is testing a feature that would allow it to share your location data with Facebook, regardless of whether you’re using the app or not. Researcher Jane Manchun Wong says the option, which is being tested as a setting you have to opt-in to, allows Facebook products to “build and use a history of precise locations” which the company says “helps you explore what’s around you, get more relevant ads and helps improve Facebook.” The Verge reports: In a statement to TechCrunch, a spokesperson from Facebook confirmed that there was no guarantee the feature would see a wide release. “We 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.”
Wong has a history of correctly identifying features like this before they’re officially announced. She has previously leaked Facebook’s dating application, Instagram’s updated two-factor authentication, and Instagram’s school bio feature. Facebook is also reportedly testing a map view to see friend’s locations, similar to what’s already offered by Snapchat. Instagram’s data sharing could provide additional data points to power this functionality, while providing Facebook with more data to better target its ads.
of this story at Slashdot.
Source:: Slashdot