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Location Tracking and Other Mobile GPS Services
GPS allows you to track and share your device's location
By Fred Zahradnik Fred Zahradnik Freelance Contributor Pennsylvania State University Former Lifewire writer Fred Zahradnik has a long history as a writer and is considered an expert on all things related to GPS products and software. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on March 13, 2020 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Android Switching from iOS Most smartphones come equipped with GPS capabilities, which track the device's location and allows for precise turn-by-turn directions, local search results, device tracking, and other services. While it is possible to legally track a cell phone, there are privacy and user notification concerns to consider. Location-Based Services
Here are some of the services available on any iOS or Android device with GPS functionality: Navigation or turn-by-turn directions for walking, driving, cycling, and public transit. Real-time positioning on map services and apps. Location sharing for friends and family. Local search for restaurants, stores, and other nearby points of interest Track, analyze, and storage of exercise or workout data. Location-based information portals, such as museum or park recordings. Smartphone Tracking Via GPS
By its nature, any smartphone with a built-in GPS chip can be tracked. Tracking falls into three categories, including location sharing, voluntary tracking, and secret tracking. Location Sharing Tracking. Location-sharing apps, such as Glympse and Find My Friends, show your real-time location to the group of friends or family you've selected. These applications help you connect with friends or business associates but should be used with care, especially when using the public access feature. You may view friends' locations on your phone or via a web browser. Voluntary Tracking. Real-time tracking of mobile devices via GPS moved into the mainstream with the introduction of AT&T FamilyMap, Sprint Family Locator, and other carrier services that display phone locations. Through smartphone or browser tracker apps, users can set alerts for when the tracked phone enters or leaves certain locations. This is useful for providing automatic notification when children arrive at home or sports practice, for example. In addition, cell phone location is built into the national enhanced 911 service. Secret Tracking. Secret or concealed tracking by individuals is not legal and is not available through carriers. When used properly, GPS provides valuable services and peace of mind for parents and loved ones. As with any technology, care must be taken to respect privacy and to prevent the release of private data. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Fake a GPS Location on Your Phone The 4 Best Location Sharing Apps 8 Find-My-Friends Alternatives for Android How to Disable Facebook Places Location Tracking Beacon Technology: What It Is and How It Impacts You How to Send Your Location on Android The 10 Best Parental Control Apps and Services of 2022 5G: Here's Everything That's Changing Can Two People Listen to Spotify at the Same Time? How to Protect Private Info Stored on Your iPhone How to Use Snapchat Maps The 8 Best Phone Tracker Apps of 2022 Which iPad Models Have Built-In GPS? What are Car GPS Trackers and How Do They Work? How to Control GPS Settings on the iPhone How to Track an iPhone From an Android Phone Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies