UPDATE: A tech enthusiast has just launched a self-hosted location tracker, abandoning Google Timeline for a more controlled alternative. The move comes amid growing concerns over Google’s data storage policies, which limit access to just 90 days of location history unless users manually back up their data.
This urgent shift is significant for anyone worried about data privacy and control. As of now, users can transition to Reitti, an open-source project that runs on personal servers, offering a polished dashboard for managing location data. The decision to move away from Google’s ecosystem highlights a rising trend among users seeking privacy and autonomy.
Developers of Reitti have made it easy for users to integrate their existing data. Utilizing Docker, setup can be completed in minutes, allowing users to import data from various sources, including Google Timeline exports and GPX files. Once integrated, Reitti transforms raw data into visual maps, pinpointing exact locations and trips taken.
The technology relies on OpenStreetMaps to geo-code data, allowing users to visualize their journeys, such as a recent drive from York to Cambridge. With Reitti, trips are automatically classified, providing an intuitive overview of travel history rather than a collection of scattered points.
Reitti’s capabilities extend far beyond its competitors. Unlike other apps that only support limited integrations, it connects with services like GPSLogger and Immich, allowing users to pull in photos and maintain a comprehensive timeline. This feature-rich approach lets users export their data in popular formats like GPX, ensuring flexibility and accessibility.
Moreover, Reitti boasts enhanced security with OIDC support for identity management. The app’s unique sharing functionality enables users to collaborate securely with others, making it a robust alternative to Google’s offerings.
For those frustrated with Google’s restrictive policies, Reitti represents a liberating option. Users can regain control over their location history without sacrificing features or usability. The shift to self-hosting not only empowers users but also reflects a broader demand for privacy in an increasingly data-driven world.
As the tech landscape evolves, the choice to self-host is becoming more appealing. With Reitti, users can build a personalized timeline that truly serves their needs while keeping their data private. This development marks a significant moment for privacy advocates and tech enthusiasts alike, urging others to consider alternatives to major corporations.
Stay tuned for more updates on this transformative technology and its implications for digital privacy.
