Facebook is testing Instagram users’ location

Facebook has conducted a test, in which it merged the location data from Instagram and Facebook. The test was opt-in, so users had to turn it on themselves. When the feature is on, Facebook can access the location data of both apps.

Facebook has been tracking users’ location for years, but Instagram has never done that. When the feature is on, the location history will show data from both apps, Techcrunch reports based on the find of a security researcher. Facebook is not denying the test and has promised to notify users if the company turns on Instagram user location tracking.

The feature is opt-in, so users need to give permission for the location history to be saved. Obviously, the feature will also appear as an opt-in when Facebook releases it, as it involves collecting private data and impacting users’ privacy.

When the feature is on, an Instagram icon will appear in the Facebook location history. Instagram will occasionally save the location, even if users don’t have the app open. According to Facebook, that location is necessary to show what is happening nearby on the social network and for more relevant advertisements. The test comes a few weeks after the founders of Instagram announced their departure.