How a location tracker app works
A phone can use GPS, Wi‑Fi and cellular information to estimate its position. The available signals, environment and permission settings affect the result. There is no universal metre-level accuracy for each source, and we have not published a controlled accuracy benchmark.
Sharing requires a supported iPhone, the app, an accepted invitation, location permission and an internet connection. Accuracy and update timing vary with permissions, connectivity and surroundings; check the last update time.
App or tracker device?
GPS tags and kids’ smartwatches are popular — but if the person already carries a phone, the phone is the tracker:
| Location tracker app | Separate tracker device | |
|---|---|---|
| Extra hardware | None | Must buy, charge and carry |
| Location requirements | Device signals and permissions | Vary by device; check the model |
| Alerts for places | Yes | Some devices |
| SOS and calls | Yes | Some devices |
| Ongoing cost | $4.99 once for the web map, no subscription | Device price, often plus a SIM plan |
What you can track
- Live location of every member of your private family circle.
- Places — set home, school, work; get notified on arrival and departure.
- History — the day’s route and stops.
- Driving — trip summaries and top speed for new drivers.
- Battery — alerts before a phone switches off.
- Emergencies — one-touch SOS with the available location.
Private by design
Only people you invite can see your location, and every member can pause or leave at any time. We never sell location data. If you’re unsure what’s safe, read our guide on whether location sharing is safe.
Enter a phone number above to add your first person to the map.