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Adjusting Share Settings - Link preview, save to home screen (app-like view), discovery and Google Analytics

This SOP explains how to update a map’s sharing settings so it displays correctly when shared, saved to a home screen, discovered in search, and tracked with analytics. Follow these steps to control the map’s public appearance and visibility.

Written by Chelsey Roney

Key Steps

1. Open the Access and Sharing settings 0:11

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  • In the map editor, navigate to Access and Sharing.

  • Open this section to access all sharing-related configuration options.

  • Use this area to control how the map appears when shared externally.

2. Edit the link preview details 0:21

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  • Update the page title so the shared link displays a clear, relevant name.

  • Add a description that summarizes the map for social posts and messaging apps.

  • Select a preview image that represents the map well when shared.

  • Review the preview to ensure it looks professional before saving.

3. Configure home screen save appearance 0:31

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  • Set how the map appears when someone saves it to their phone’s home screen.

  • Confirm the map or asset will display like an app icon on mobile devices.

  • Make sure the visual identity is consistent and recognizable for users.

4. Set the app icon, favicon, and shortening options 0:40

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  • Choose the app icon that will appear on a home screen.

  • Select the favicon used in browser and shortcut contexts.

  • Review any shortening behavior that applies to the saved link.

  • Verify the icon and shortcut presentation match your brand.

5. Adjust discovery settings for public visibility 0:52

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  • Decide whether the map should be listed publicly.

  • If public listing is enabled, the map can be included in:

    • Search results

    • Sitemap listings

    • Landing pages where the map is embedded

  • Use this setting when you want to increase traffic and discoverability.

6. Keep the map linked-only if public discovery is not desired 1:06

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  • Turn discovery off if the map should not appear in search or public listings.

  • When disabled, the map remains accessible only through direct links.

  • Use this option for private, internal, or limited-access sharing.

7. Add Google Analytics measurement ID 1:18

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  • Enter your Google Analytics measurement ID in the provided field.

  • Confirm the ID is correct before saving.

  • Use analytics to gather additional information about map usage and traffic.

Cautionary Notes

  • Public discovery settings can increase visibility: Only enable public listing if the map is intended for broader access.

  • Check all preview assets carefully: Incorrect titles, descriptions, or images may create a poor first impression when shared.

  • Use the correct analytics ID: An invalid measurement ID may prevent tracking from working properly.

  • Home screen appearance matters on mobile: Ensure the icon and favicon are clear and recognizable at small sizes.

Tips for Efficiency

  • Prepare your title, description, preview image, and analytics ID before opening settings to save time.

  • Use a consistent brand image for the app icon, favicon, and preview image.

  • If you frequently share maps publicly, keep discovery enabled by default and only disable it for restricted maps.

  • Test the shared link on a messaging app and a mobile device to confirm the preview and home screen appearance look correct.

Link to Loom

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