Google Timeline Visualizer is an Android app and iPhone web tool that converts Google Location History data into animated travel videos.
The tool solves the problem of visualizing personal travel patterns by transforming Timeline.json exports from Google Maps into MP4 videos showing journeys on an animated map. Users select a date range or specific dates, choose camera movement styles, preview the resulting animation, and generate a shareable video file. On Android, the app handles the entire workflow locally on the device. On iPhone, a web-based version processes the Timeline file in the browser without uploading it to any server.
The Android app suits users who want a native mobile experience and have devices running Android 8.0 or newer. The iPhone web app appeals to Safari users who prefer not to install additional software and value client-side processing. The tool is particularly useful for creating travel retrospectives, sharing journey highlights, or documenting location patterns over specific periods. The project includes a feature to restore missing Google Maps Timeline data from encrypted backups, addressing a common user frustration when timeline history disappears after device changes or app reinstalls.
Development activity shows consistent maintenance with regular updates to the codebase. The project includes localized documentation in multiple languages, indicating attention to international users. The Android app is distributed directly through GitHub releases rather than app stores, with clear installation instructions acknowledging the expected security warnings users will encounter. The tool maintains active support for its core functionality, with documentation covering both standard usage and edge cases like timeline restoration.
