Google Maps to Allow Posting Reviews Anonymously Soon

The Google app and Google Maps typically require users to post reviews or comments under their real names and photos linked to their Google accounts. This transparency makes your actual identity accessible to anyone globally.

For those wishing to maintain anonymity, one alternative is to utilize a temporary email ID, masking personal details such as your name and profile picture. However, this might not be the best option for regular reviewers. Thus, the other choices are either creating a separate account or abstaining from posting altogether.

Fortunately, recent updates in the latest version of the Google Maps app reveal new code snippets that may enable users to leave reviews or comments without displaying their real names and images. These same snippets have also been detected in the latest iteration of the Google app.

The new code suggests that Google is providing options for users to create alternate profile names and upload new profile pictures. This will allow individuals to comment or review content while preserving their true identities. The following code snippets were highlighted by Android Authority:

string name=”ap_accept_terms_checkbox”>My use of notes is governed by the <a href=”%1$s”>Google Terms of Service</a>, including the <a href=”%2$s”>Additional Terms</a>Use Google account profileBackCloseConfirmCreate new profileCreate display nameSome characters are not allowedName is too longYou’ll use this profile to post publicly across Google Maps and Search. <a href=”%1$s”>Learn more</a>Image requiredNew name & pictureOops, something went wrongUpload a photoSigned in asChoose how you’ll look

Importantly, this feature isn’t merely hidden in code within the latest versions of the Google and Google Maps apps. Google has released a support page detailing how users may choose to present themselves publicly on Google Maps and Search. The page states:

You’re in control of how you appear when you post publicly on Google Maps and Search. When you post publicly for the first time, you will be asked to select from two options:

Use the name and photo on your Google Account.

Use a custom name and picture.

Regrettably, this feature has not yet been activated on any of the accounts we tested. Interestingly, the new support page mentions “for the first time,”implying that this capability might be restricted to first-time posters or newly established accounts. Thus far, these options appear to be unoperational as well.

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