(iStockphoto)

You likely know that when you search for directions using Google Maps, the service registers where you are to help get you from Point A to Point B. But did you know that the app regularly tracks and archives your location in an entirely separate database?

Yes, Apple isn’t the only one quietly filing away your location data. Google has its own comprehensive treasure trove of your information, which tracks and time-stamps your approximate location, ranging back months and months.

To see your history, you first need to log in to Google. Keep in mind that, if you’ve never logged in to the Maps tool while using it before, this will likely not apply.

Once you’re logged in, visit this link. You’ll be able to see pretty much everywhere you’ve been within the past year, day by day. It varies from person to person. I, for instance, have a history that dates back to May 15, 2013. A reader of mine, who tipped me off to this page, says his account shows 14 months’ worth of locations.

View photos

My approximate locations from May 15, 2013.

View photos

Where I went that entire month.

To the left of the map, below a calendar tool, is an option called Show timestamps.

View photos

Click the arrow, and it will show a range of times. Clicking on a particular time will bring it up on the map, pinpointing where you were during that time period.

Story continues