Is a relationship 'official' if you’re not sharing locations? Here's what to know
Make relationships "official" with location sharing
A growing number of couples are embracing location-sharing technology as a way to strengthen trust and improve coordination in their relationships. FOX's Ted Lindner reports. (Credit: FOX)
It's often joked that a relationship isn't "official" until it's posted on Facebook, but a new rule of thumb says a relationship isn't "official" until couples start sharing their locations with each other.
According to a survey from the Family Location Safety app, "Life-360," more couples are sharing their location and checking the app about seven times a day on average.
What they're saying:
"Ninety-five percent of adults use some form of location sharing tech with 40-percent relying on apps like Life 360." Life360 Chief Marketing Officer Mike Zeman said in an interview with FOX News. "They're using it for knowing that their partner is safe or being alerted when they're not.... So seeing where they are on the map, you know, versus having to sort of text or call."
A couple pose for a photo ahead of Valentine's Day in Ankara, Turkiye. (Photo by Dilara Irem Sancar/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Why you should care:
Zeman said sharing locations with your partner can also build trust.
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"Nearly 60-percent of them say that sharing makes the relationship just feel more official," he added. "Nearly 70-percent say that it improves convenience and coordination in the relationship."
History of Valentine's Day
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The survey also revealed that 45% of the app's users say knowing their partner's location boosts their mental health.
Local perspective:
Cassidy Lewis of Colorado uses the app.
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"You just feel like more connected to their life.... even when you're not like by their side," she said.
The other side:
However, refusing to share your location could work against you with 21% of surveytakers saying it might be a dealbreaker if their partner doesn't want to go along.
"It's kind of just a matter of like, 'Why wouldn't you share your location?'" Lewis asked. "Just having it with that person as well is like an important factor for me."
Married couples are also using the app, saying it helps them keep track of where their family is located.
The Source: The information in this story came from a survey conducted by Life360, a family location safety app, which found that many couples share their locations and check the app frequently. Additional insights were provided by Life360 Chief Marketing Officer Mike Zeman in an interview with FOX News. This story was reported from Los Angeles.