Losing your phone can be one of the most stressful experiences. Your smartphone contains so much of your life – contacts, photos, work files, and access to everything through apps. When it goes missing, it can feel like you’ve lost a part of yourself.
I recently experienced that sinking feeling when my phone seemingly vanished. After frantically searching everywhere I could think of, I still couldn’t find it. That’s when I started looking into GPS tracking apps and wished I had installed one sooner.
GPS phone tracker apps allow you to view the real-time location of a phone, even when it’s not connected to WiFi or cellular data. They work by tapping into the phone’s GPS satellites to pinpoint its geographic coordinates. Some apps even let you view location history so you can see everywhere your phone has been.
I tested out numerous tracking apps to find the best options that would have helped me recover my phone quickly. While features differed, the most useful had robust location tracking using GPS, WiFi networks, and cell towers. Being able to view real-time movement and historical location data would have allowed me to retrace my steps and find my phone faster.
Beyond just tracking a lost phone, I found GPS tracking apps useful for other purposes. Parents can use them to monitor where their kids are. Companies may track devices given to employees. And some apps offer features beyond location monitoring like app usage stats and geofencing.
In this article, I’ll highlight the key capabilities to look for in the top GPS tracking apps for smartphones. Understanding these features will help you choose the best option before you actually lose your phone. Then you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing you can locate your device if it ever goes missing. So, buckle up as we dive into the details with top providers like mSpy, EyeZy, and uMobix.
How Does GPS Tracking Software Work? 🌐
GPS tracking apps leverage the global positioning system satellites that orbit the Earth to pinpoint a device’s location. Every smartphone has a GPS receiver built-in that communicates with these satellites to determine geographic coordinates.
When using a tracking app, it taps into the phone’s GPS data to relay real-time location information. For example, if I installed a tracker on my daughter’s phone, I could see if she made it to school or her friend’s house based on the live updates.
Most apps also store location history so you can view where a phone has been over days, weeks, or months. This allows you to retrace steps which is useful if your phone was lost or stolen.
However, GPS signals can be spotty indoors or when surrounded by tall buildings. To enhance location tracking, many apps supplement with WiFi and cellular data triangulation.
WiFi positioning uses signal data from nearby router networks to estimate location, even without GPS access. Cellular tracking works similarly but uses cell towers and signal strength. Apps that combine GPS, WiFi, and cellular tracking offer the most robust location data.
Some thieves try to thwart tracking apps by turning off GPS or airplane mode on a stolen phone. To combat this, certain apps allow SMS commands to force location updates or screaming alerts. As a last resort, these features may help recover a lost or stolen device when other tracking fails.
Overall, GPS tracking leverages the satellites and sensors built into every smartphone to relay where it’s located in real-time. When used responsibly, it provides peace of mind for parents, employers, and anyone wanting to keep tabs on their phone.
Need Physical Access to the Target Device? 🔒
A common question about GPS tracking apps is whether you need physical access to the target phone or tablet to install them. The answer depends on whether it runs iOS or Android.
For Android devices, physical access is always required. You will need to manually download the app file and open it to trigger the installation. This applies equally to rooted or non-rooted Android phones and tablets.
The reason is that Android does not allow remote installation of apps from outside the Google Play Store for security reasons. So there is no way around needing the device in hand to start using a tracking app.
For iPhones and iPads, you typically need physical access initially. Most tracking apps have you install a mobile configuration profile that contains the necessary permissions. Some may even have you install a small app from the App Store.
However, a few iOS tracking solutions use iCloud syncing which can work remotely. These require you to enter your iCloud credentials so the app can communicate with Apple’s servers. You’ll also need to confirm any two-factor authentication prompts.
While remote iOS setup is convenient, it’s insecure to hand out your iCloud password. The safest approach is to install iOS tracking apps directly on the device you want to monitor when possible.
No matter what, Android requires physical access to begin tracking a device. For iPhones, remote installation works in some cases but comes with risks. The optimal method is to install the app directly where you have full control. This ensures your data and privacy are protected.
How to Choose GPS Tracking Apps
With so many GPS tracking apps on the market, it can be tough to decide which one is right for your needs. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a location tracking solution:
- Tracking Accuracy – The best apps leverage GPS, WiFi, and cellular networks to pinpoint device location precisely, both indoors and out. Accuracy is essential if you need to find a lost phone.
- Update Frequency – Determine how often you want location check-ins. Options range from real-time to every few hours. Frequent updates drain more battery.
- Location History – The ability to view past locations, not just real-time data, is important. Robust history logs help you retrace steps.
- Battery Usage – Excessive battery drain from an app tracking GPS constantly can make it obvious. Opt for reasonable update intervals.
- Cross-Platform Support – If monitoring both iPhones and Android devices, choose a tracker that works across platforms.
- Dashboards – A well-designed dashboard lets you see device location clearly on a map and filter history logs with ease.
- Stealth Mode – To track covertly, pick an app that can hide its icon and runs silently in the background after installation.
- Customer Support – A responsive support team can help troubleshoot any issues with setup or usage.
Consider your specific needs, devices, and budget to narrow down the selection. Testing potential apps with free trials is recommended. Following these guidelines will help you pick the best GPS tracking solution for your purposes.
What Can GPS Spy Apps Show Me? 🕵️♂️
The most obvious feature GPS tracking apps provide is real-time location monitoring and historical data on where a device has been. But many go far beyond just pinpointing coordinates on a map.
Full-fledged spy apps can provide insight into almost every activity on a phone or tablet. Here are some of the key types of data you can expect:
- Messaging – SMS texts, WhatsApp, Facebook, Snapchat, emails, and more. See message contents, time stamps, and contact names.
- Call Logs – Details on all incoming/outgoing calls, missed calls, plus phone contacts.
- Web Activity – Browser history, bookmarks, cached pages, and searches. See all webpages visited.
- Photos/Video – Media taken with device cameras, both front and back. View or record in real-time.
- App Usage – Statistics on apps installed, how frequent and when they are used, and for how long. Monitor app categories and block as needed.
- Keylogging – Physical key presses on the device keyboard captured and logged.
- Ambient Listening – Use the microphone remotely to listen into the phone’s surroundings.
- Screen Recording – Watch what happens on the device screen in real-time over your dashboard.
- Files & Documents – Photos, videos, audio, downloads, and other files on the device file system.
As you can see, advanced tracking apps provide an incredible amount of data beyond just GPS location history. Parents use these features to oversee kids’ online activities, employers monitor company devices, and individuals keep tabs on phones. But legality and ethics should always be considered when using such intrusive software.
With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to pick the right GPS tracking app for your needs. To make it easier, I evaluated some of the top contenders based on features, reliability, and value. Here’s an in-depth look at one of the best all-around choices:
Best GPS Tracking Software
#1 mSpy
mSpy tops the list as a robust phone monitoring suite with accurate GPS tracking capabilities. Beyond just location services, it offers a full mobile device management system for parents and employers.
Some key facts about mSpy:
- Starts at $11.67/month for annual plan
- Tracks 1 device
- 14-day free demo available
- Includes 14-day money-back guarantee
Location Tracking
For GPS monitoring, mSpy records real-time coordinates and logs location history in the online dashboard. You can customize the syncing frequency from every 5 minutes up to 24 hours. For older phones, a less frequent setting may help conserve battery life.
All location data displays on an interactive map within the dashboard. You can pinpoint exactly where the device is at any given moment. The location history shows you everywhere the phone has been over days, weeks, or months so you can retrace steps.
mSpy also has a useful Geofencing feature. This lets you designate approved geographic areas on the map, like a school zone. You’ll receive alerts anytime the phone enters or exits the boundaries. It’s great for keeping tabs on kids.
Pricing
One downside is mSpy sits at the higher end of pricing tiers:
to work in their free time.
small companies.
and enterprise.
But the annual plan makes it more affordable for long-term use. You get the full range of phone management features too, like app monitoring, remote control, etc. Overall, mSpy is a top choice for its reliable GPS tracking and robust management capabilities.
#2 EyeZy
EyeZy is another top contender for GPS tracking and full-featured phone monitoring. It works on both iPhones and Android devices.
Some key details about EyeZy:
- Starts at $10/month for annual plan
- Number of devices not specified
- 3-day free trial
- 14-day money-back guarantee
Location Tracking
Like mSpy, EyeZy provides real-time GPS coordinates and location history logging. You can view device movement on an interactive map in the online dashboard.
A standout is the Geo-fencing feature. This lets you set up approved locations on the map, like school or work. If the device exits the boundaries, you receive instant email alerts. It’s great for monitoring kids’ whereabouts.
For privacy, EyeZy has a stealth mode that hides the app icon after installation. The tracking runs silently in the background without any visible notifications.
Pricing
EyeZy is competitively priced:
to work in their free time.
small companies.
and enterprise.
The annual plan gives you the lowest price for long-term use. One thing to note is the renewal price may jump up after the first period. Overall, EyeZy is a cost-effective pick for robust GPS monitoring and phone management capabilities.
#3 Spyic
Spyic is another robust phone monitoring and location tracking solution. It works for both iOS and Android devices.
Some key details on Spyic:
- Starts at $12.49/month yearly
- Tracks 1 device
- 14-day free demo
- Includes 14-day money-back guarantee
Location Tracking
For iPhones, Spyic uses iCloud sync to retrieve location data remotely. This sends a notification to the user, so it’s best with consent.
On Android, Spyic has a stealth mode that hides the app after installation for discreet tracking. Real-time GPS coordinates and history show in the online dashboard.
Spyic also backs up device data like messages, contacts, and files to the cloud. This is useful for accessing info from iPhones where local backups are difficult. However, data is only stored for 30 days.
Pricing
Spyic has tiered pricing plans:
- Basic: $8.33/month yearly (1 device, GPS tracking)
- Premium: $16.66/month yearly (5 devices)
- Family: $41.66/month yearly (15 devices)
For single device GPS tracking, the Basic plan is a cost-effective option. The Premium and Family plans support more devices and have features like SIM card tracking. Overall, Spyic provides solid tracking and management for personal or business use.
#4 Hoverwatch
Hoverwatch uses a combination of GPS, WiFi, and cellular networks for comprehensive location tracking. It only works on Android devices.
Some key details on Hoverwatch:
- Pricing not readily available
- For Android devices only
- No free trial advertised
- Refund policy not stated
Location Tracking
Hoverwatch leverages GPS, WiFi signals, and cellular towers to pinpoint device location. This allows tracking even when GPS is disabled.
The dashboard shows tracking accuracy based on the method used – GPS is most precise. WiFi and cellular are useful when GPS can’t connect.
You can remotely change tracking settings through the online dashboard for flexibility. Hoverwatch also tracks phones, tablets, and desktop computers.
Pricing
Hoverwatch has three pricing tiers:
$59.95
$99.95
$99.95
$199.95
$299.95
$499.95
Exact pricing is less transparent than other products. But the multi-layered tracking makes Hoverwatch a solid choice for Android devices. Lack of iOS support is the main drawback.
#5 uMobix
uMobix combines slick and easy location tracking for Android with robust phone monitoring capabilities.
Some key details on uMobix:
- Starts at $12.49/month yearly
- Tracks 1 device
- 14-day free trial
- 14-day money-back guarantee
Location Tracking
On Android 7.0 and newer, uMobix provides excellent GPS tracking. Real-time locations and history display on an intuitive dashboard map.
For iPhones, uMobix uses iCloud sync which doesn’t allow location tracking. Instead, it retrieves data like messages, browsing history, etc.
Pricing
uMobix pricing tiers:
- Lite: $12.49/month yearly
- Pro: $24.99/month yearly
- Family: $99.99/month yearly
The Lite plan is the most affordable for basic GPS tracking needs. However, competitors like mSpy and EyeZy offer better iOS support at similar prices.
uMobix shines for its Android tracking and comprehensive phone monitoring capabilities. But iOS users may want to consider other options first. Overall, it’s a powerful package despite limitations with iPhone location tracking.
#6 iKeyMonitor
iKeyMonitor provides GPS tracking and full monitoring for iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac devices.
Some key details on iKeyMonitor:
- Free basic version available
- Upgrades start at $16.66/month
- Supports iOS, Android, Windows, Mac
- 7-day refund policy
Location Tracking
iKeyMonitor offers real-time GPS tracking and location history for Android and iOS. For iPhones, jailbreaking enables live tracking.
You can set a customizable timer for updating GPS data. Geo-fencing alerts you when the device enters or leaves designated areas.
Pricing
- Free basic version: GPS tracking only
- Mobile monitoring: $16.66/month
- Desktop monitoring: $29.99/month
Upgrades add features like social media monitoring, camera access, and more. The free basic version still provides helpful GPS tracking capabilities.
Overall, iKeyMonitor is unique for supporting iOS, Android, MacOS, and Windows devices. It’s a solid pick for tracking multiple device types from one dashboard. For a comprehensive analysis, consider exploring our in-depth review at SpyPhoneMax’s iKeyMonitor Review.
#7 KidsGuard Pro
KidsGuard Pro provides robust GPS monitoring for Android and iOS while remaining hidden through stealth mode.
Some key details on KidsGuard Pro:
- Starts at $8.32/month yearly
- Tracks 1 device
- 30-day free trial
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Location Tracking
KidsGuard Pro supports real-time GPS tracking on both Android and iOS. For live updates on iPhones, jailbreaking is required.
It also logs location history and shows device movement on an interactive map. There are timeline filters and Google Maps integration to inspect locations further.
Pricing
- 1 month – $15.99
- 3 months – $11.99/month
- 1 year – $8.32/month
For short term use, KidsGuard Pro is very affordable. It also has parental control features like website blocking, screen limits, etc. Overall, it’s a robust package for GPS tracking and phone monitoring at a budget-friendly price. Read our KidsGuard Pro review.
#8 Cocospy
Cocospy is a user-friendly phone monitoring tool with accurate GPS tracking for Android and iOS.
Some key details on Cocospy:
- Starts at $12.49/month yearly
- Tracks 1 device
- 14-day free trial
- 14-day money-back guarantee
Location Tracking
Cocospy provides real-time GPS tracking and location history for both Android and iOS without rooting or jailbreaking.
For iPhones, it syncs data through iCloud remotely. You simply enter the iCloud credentials to set it up.
Pricing
Cocospy has 3 pricing tiers:
- Basic: $39.99/month (Android only)
- Premium: $12.49/month yearly
- Family: $69.99/month yearly (3 devices)
The Premium plan is the best value for full GPS tracking. While priced slightly higher than competitors, Cocospy makes up for it with smooth iOS tracking without jailbreaking. Overall, it’s a top choice for hassle-free location monitoring. For further insights, the detailed Cocospy review can be accessed at SpyPhoneMax’s Cocospy Review, providing an in-depth look at the service’s capabilities and user experience.
👉 FAQ
Let me know if you have any other questions!
Conclusion
Here is a table summarizing the key details of the GPS tracking apps discussed in this article:
| Software | Starting Price (Monthly) | No Of Devices | Free Trial/Demo | Money-Back Guarantee | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| mSpy | $16.66 | 1 | Demo | 14 days | Social media monitoring, geofencing |
| EyeZy | $9.99 | 1 | Demo | 14 days | Screen recorder, Wi-Fi networks tracking |
| Hoverwatch | Custom plans | 1 | No | No | Wi-Fi location tracking, GSM tracking |
| uMobix | $12.49 | 1 | Demo | 14 days | Live streaming camera and microphone, social media tracking |
| iKeyMonitor | Free / $16.66 | 1 | Demo | 7 days | Live screen monitoring, geofencing |
| KidsGuard Pro | $8.32 | 1 | Demo | 30 days | Stealth Mode, real-time location tracking |
| Cocospy | $9.99 | 1 | Demo | 14 days | iOS compatibility without jailbreak, low battery usage |
The pricing reflected is typically for the most basic annual plans or the closest equivalent; some may offer different features or services at varying price points. Always check the current details on the respective service’s website as prices and features can change.
After reviewing the top options, a few GPS tracking apps emerge as leading choices based on accuracy, features, and value. For versatile cross-platform monitoring and tracking, mSpy is a top pick with its robust management capabilities on top of precise location data.
If your focus is Android tracking, Hoverwatch leverages advanced GPS, WiFi, and cellular monitoring for comprehensive device visibility. And for remote iOS tracking, Cocospy retrieves location data through iCloud without needing device access.
Apps like uMobix cater to families with tools like geofencing for keeping kids safe. iKeyMonitor stands out for its free basic version and support across iOS, Android, MacOS and Windows devices. And budget-friendly choices like KidsGuard Pro make GPS tracking affordable for personal use.
When selecting a tracking app, consider your target platforms, use cases, and budget. Test potential options with free trials to determine the best fit. Optimize the location tracking settings and features for your particular needs. And always use ethically and legally.
In closing, with the right GPS tracking software, you can view real-time device coordinates instantly for peace of mind. Focus on picking a trusted provider that aligns with your specific requirements.
