Google has confirmed that a technical issue caused some users’ Maps Timeline data to be deleted. The problem started earlier this month, with users reporting that their location history had been wiped clean. The issue was related to the switch from cloud-based storage to on-device storage for Timeline data.
Only users who had backups enabled prior to the issue were able to restore their Timelines. However, some who attempted to import their backups reported difficulties in retrieving all of their lost data. Google advises users to check if they have backups turned on by going to ‘Your Timeline’ in the Maps app and updating the settings from the cloud icon.
The incident has left many users with years of location history gone. While some were able to recover their data, others faced setbacks. The issue highlights the importance of regularly backing up sensitive data.
Source: https://www.engadget.com/apps/google-says-a-technical-issue-caused-some-users-maps-timeline-data-to-be-deleted-214358403.html