I tried both the OwnTracks server and Dawarich, and had problems using them with my reverse proxy (Caddy), which I didn't manage to fix. Eventually, I installed the Nextcloud app Phonetrack, and I've been using it for months with the OwnTracks client: it works fine, it can also export GPX files, which I can use to tag pictures shot with my camera, using Darktable. I recommend this solution if you are already using Nextcloud!

There is also

https://dawarich.app/

But I could never get it to ingest any data from the recc Android apps (this is probably a me problem, though, Linux Unplugged crew are using it).

How exactly does it work from your phone's perspective? Does it hook into Google Play Services location data? Do you need to install a different low-level application that replicates that functionality? (If so, what's the battery life impact like?) Does it need a foregrounded app?

I'm really interested in this, because like the author I'm really upset at Google killing yet another incredibly useful feature. But the article is a little light on details.

I tried setting up own tracks like a year ago and it sucked HARD.

Has the computer setup potion become any easier?