20 Best Location Tracking Apps for Accurate GPS Location

Staying connected and informed is crucial, and that’s where the best location-tracking apps come into play. Whether you’re an Android or an iOS user, these handy applications provide seamless and efficient ways to track your location.

With many location-tracking apps flooding the market, finding the most reliable and user-friendly options can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ve carefully curated a list of the finest location-tracking apps for iOS and Android platforms. From real-time GPS tracking to geofencing features, these apps offer an array of functionalities to cater to your individual needs.

This article has discussed why you needed Location-based apps, the technologies used, and the Top Location-tracking apps available in 2023. 

What Are Location Tracking Apps, & How Do They Work?

In simple terms, location tracking apps use GPS (Global Positioning System) technology to pinpoint a user’s exact location on the Earth’s surface. GPS relies on a network of satellites to determine the coordinates of a device, such as a smartphone or a GPS tracker.

Here’s How They Work:

• GPS Technology: Location tracking apps leverage the GPS receiver in your device to obtain accurate geographic information, including latitude and longitude.
• Data Collection: Once the GPS receives the location data, the app gathers other relevant information, such as time, date, and sometimes even speed and direction.
• Data Transmission: The collected location data is then transmitted securely to the app’s servers using the internet, where authorized users can access it.
• User Access: Authorized individuals can access this data through the app’s interface, viewing real-time or historical location information.
• Privacy Settings: Most location tracking apps offer privacy settings, allowing users to control who can access their location data and for what duration.

While location-tracking apps provide convenience and safety benefits, it’s crucial to use them responsibly and respect others’ privacy.

Best 20 Location Tracking Apps Of 2023

The availability of more innovative technologies and wearable gadgets allows us to ensure our loved one’s safety. Today, there are many phone location-tracking apps available. However, it can be a bit daunting to pick the right app from the pool of apps, so here we bring the best location-tracking apps available in the app stores for both iOS and Android devices:

1. My Family locator, GPS tracker

My Family Locator is a GPS-tracking application that provides real-time location tracking of loved ones. The app is handy for parents who want to ensure the safety of their children, elderly relatives, and spouses by monitoring their movements. In addition to geofencing and location history, the app includes over 25 features, including SMS, calls, and GPS tracking.

Parents can install the app on their child’s phone and track their location throughout the day without the child knowing it. The app records the child’s GPS location and sends it to the parent, making it easier to track their real-time location.

2. FollowMee GPS Tracker: Locate & Track Your Device

FollowMee GPS Tracker is a smartphone app that enables real-time tracking of device locations. It offers a range of valuable features, such as geofencing, location history, and alerts for when your device enters or leaves a specific area. Additionally, this app can be used to track multiple devices from a single account, making it an excellent choice for those needing to monitor multiple devices’ locations.

This tracker is handy for those who want to track their device without the user’s knowledge. It can be installed discreetly and works well even in areas with poor internet connectivity.

3. Map My Run By Under Armour

Map My Run is an app designed specifically for runners, joggers, and walkers who want to track their workout progress and map their routes. Developed by Under Armour, this app is one of the best location tracker apps available, offering advanced wearable integration features.

In addition to tracking locations and routes, Map My Run is an excellent workout tracker app that allows users to set goals and connect with a supportive community of fellow fitness enthusiasts. It is trendy among fitness enthusiasts as it enables them to record essential statistics and metrics from their workout, such as ground contact time, foot strike angle, and stride length, which can be used to analyze their fitness levels and make necessary changes to achieve better results.

This app is highly integrable and easily synced with most wearables, including Suunto, Google Fit, Fitbit, Garmin, and Android Wear. It also comes with under-armor-connected shoes that allow users to track their workouts more accurately. Overall, Map My Run is an excellent app for anyone looking to improve their fitness and track their progress simply and effectively.

4. iSharing: GPS Location Tracker

iSharing is an app that enables users to share their real-time location with their family and friends. The app also allows users to view the location of their loved ones on a map and receive notifications when they arrive at a specific location. iSharing is designed to provide users with additional security and peace of mind. It features a GPS tracker that enables users to monitor the movements of their loved ones in real time privately.

Additionally, the app offers various functionalities like sending alerts when a family member arrives or leaves a destination, sending alerts if they are nearby, sending panic alerts, and much more. Overall, iSharing is an excellent tool for anyone looking to keep their family and loved ones safe and secure.

5. Glympse – Share GPS location

Glympse is a location-sharing app enabling users to share their real-time location with friends, family, or colleagues. The app is designed to provide users with a quick and easy way to let others know where they are and when they will arrive at their destination. With Glympse, users can choose who to share their location with and for how long. The app also offers features such as in-app messaging and the ability to customize the look and feel of your location-sharing screen. Glympse is available on iOS and Android devices and is free to download.

6. TrackView – Find My Phone

TrackView is a mobile app designed to track the location of lost or stolen phones and provide remote access to the phone’s camera and microphone. This app is handy for families who want to ensure the safety and security of their loved ones without having to ask for their permission.

With TrackView, users can monitor the real-time location of their family members, turn their devices into IP cameras with GPS locators, and access a web interface remotely. In addition to location tracking, the app offers other features such as geofencing, stealth mode, and access to social media feeds.

The basic version of TrackView is free, but users can also choose to upgrade to a premium plan starting at $2.99 or an ultimate edition for $54.99. Whether using the free or paid version, TrackView is a reliable tool for staying connected with friends and family.

7. Life360: Find Family & Friends

Life360 is a helpful location-tracking application designed to keep families and friends connected. This user-friendly and dependable app allows users to monitor their children’s location or stay up-to-date on their friend’s whereabouts in real-time without permission. With cross-platform location sharing and in-app messaging features, Life360 is an intelligent way to stay connected.

Additionally, users can turn off location sharing if they wish to keep their current location private. While the app can be downloaded for free, users can upgrade to a premium plan for additional features, with prices starting at $4.99.

8. Parental Control App & Location Tracker – FamiSafe

FamiSafe is a powerful tool for parents who want to keep an eye on their children’s online activities and whereabouts. With its sophisticated features, including geofencing, app blockers, parental controls, location tracking, emergency alerts, screen time control, and web filtering, FamiSafe offers unparalleled peace of mind. Geofencing technology enables parents to create custom virtual safety zones around their children’s schools, extracurricular activities, or other vital locations and receive notifications when their children enter or leave these areas.

This app is handy for parents who want to track their children’s phones without their knowledge. The app is available on Android and iPhone platforms, and users can take advantage of a three-day trial before committing to a subscription. With FamiSafe, parents can rest easy knowing they are doing everything possible to keep their children safe in the digital age.

9. Google Maps

Google Maps is one of the most widely used tracking apps for both Android and iPhone devices. Its share location feature provides highly accurate and dependable tracking results. With its user-friendly interface, users can customize their real-time location tracking requirements. Additionally, the app keeps track of past locations and displays them on a timeline.

Users can manage sharing options and decide with whom they wish to share their location and duration. The app’s many features make it an excellent choice for Android and iPhone users. In addition to providing navigation assistance, Google Maps also offers real-time traffic updates, public transit information, and street-level views, making it a comprehensive app for all kinds of location-based needs.

10. Find My iPhone

Find My iPhone is an app exclusively available on iPhones that serves as a location tracker. It enables users to find the location of their loved ones, friends, family, and even other devices signed into their iCloud account. To use this feature, users must turn on the family sharing functionality on their iPhones. This app is especially helpful for individuals who frequently misplace their iPhones and are searching for an efficient phone tracking app.

If a contact in the user’s phone book has not enabled the location-sharing option, the app can still play a sound on their device. Find My iPhone is a free built-in iPhone app featuring three tabs: People, Devices, and Me. One of its unique advantages is its ability to locate an Apple device even offline. Overall, Find My iPhone is an essential app for individuals who value the safety and security of their devices and loved ones.

11. Waze

Waze is a navigation app providing real-time traffic updates and directions. It is designed to help drivers find the quickest and most efficient route to their destination while avoiding traffic jams, accidents, and other obstacles on the road.

12. Apple Maps

Apple Maps is a mobile and desktop application developed by Apple Inc. that provides mapping and location-tracking services. It is available on Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers. The app allows users to search for locations, get directions, and explore the world through 3D and satellite imagery.

It also includes real-time traffic information, public transit directions, and indoor maps for select airports and shopping malls. Users can save their favorite locations and create custom lists for easy access. Apple Maps also integrates with Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant, for hands-free navigation.

13. Uber

Uber is a enables users to request a ride from nearby drivers quickly. The app uses location-tracking technology to connect riders with drivers in real time. Once a ride is requested, users can track their driver’s location and estimated time of arrival on their smartphones.

With its user-friendly interface and affordable pricing, Uber has become a go-to transportation option for many people worldwide. The app has also created new job opportunities for drivers and revolutionized how people commute in urban areas.

14. Lyft

Lyft is a service that uses a location-tracking app to match drivers with riders. The app utilizes GPS technology to track the location of the driver and the rider, providing real-time updates on the estimated arrival time. The app also allows riders to track the driver’s location and ETA on a map, giving them peace of mind and ensuring a seamless pick-up experience.

The location tracking feature is also used for safety purposes, as both the rider and driver can share their location with friends or family members for added security. Lyft’s location tracking app is a key component of its service and enhances the rider experience.

15. Gaia GPS

Gaia GPS allows users to navigate, plan, and record outdoor activities. It provides topographical maps, GPS tracking, and other features for hiking, camping, hunting, and other outdoor activities. Gaia GPS is available for both iOS and Android platforms, and it offers a free trial and subscription-based pricing plans.

16. Sygic GPS Navigation & Maps

Sygic GPS Navigation & Maps is an all-in-one offline navigation app that offers users turn-by-turn directions, voice-guided navigation, and real-time traffic updates. With a robust Points of Interest database and a speed limit indicator, users can quickly find their way to their destination while staying within legal speed limits.

The app’s ability to download maps for offline use makes it an excellent choice for travelers and those without consistent access to cellular data. This feature ensures users can navigate without worrying about losing connection or incurring data charges.

Sygic GPS Navigation & Maps is a comprehensive navigation app with essential features for a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

17. AllTrails: Hiking, Running & Mountain Bike Trails

AllTrails is a widely used mobile application designed for outdoor enthusiasts such as hikers, runners, and mountain bikers. The app provides users with detailed information on trails from all around the world, including maps, photos, and reviews to help them plan and navigate their adventures. The app has an extensive database of trails, and users can filter their search results based on location, distance, difficulty level, and more.

The app also allows users to track their progress, record their experiences, and share their adventures with the AllTrails community. With its user-friendly interface and helpful features, AllTrails has become essential for outdoor enthusiasts exploring new trails and destinations.

18. Komoot

Komoot helps outdoor enthusiasts discover and navigate new trails, routes, and adventures. With its detailed maps and personalized recommendations, Komoot makes planning and tracking activities such as hiking, biking, and running easy.

The app uses GPS tracking to record and accurately display the user’s location and movement, providing helpful information such as distance traveled, elevation gain, and estimated time to complete a route.

Komoot also allows users to connect with other outdoor enthusiasts, share their experiences, and discover new trails and routes in their area. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just starting out, Komoot is essential for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors.

19. Tile

The tile app helps users keep track of their belongings, such as keys, wallets, and bags. The app uses Bluetooth technology to connect to small tracking devices called Tiles, which can be attached to the user’s belongings. Once connected, the app allows users to see the last known location of their Tile on a map and provides a proximity indicator to help users find their lost item.

Tile offers a community feature that allows users to leverage the collective power of the Tile community to help locate lost items outside of Bluetooth range. The Tile app also offers a premium subscription service with additional features such as intelligent alerts and unlimited sharing of Tiles with friends and family.

20. Foursquare Swarm

Foursquare Swarm allows users to share their location and check in at various places, such as restaurants, bars, and other local businesses. The app lets users connect with friends and see where they hang out. Swarm also offers a variety of features, such as the ability to earn coins and stickers for check-ins and the ability to track personal stats, like how many places you’ve visited in a week or a month. Additionally, Swarm provides recommendations for nearby places based on your previous check-ins and ratings, making it a useful tool for exploring new areas.

What Are The Benefits Of Using A Location Tracker App? 

Location Tracker apps allow users to know the exact location of target devices, making it easier to learn the remote location of your family, kids, spouse, and friends. Using a share location app makes tracking lost/stolen devices easier. The app users can even obtain the device’s location history to know past routes and the where abouts of their loved ones. 

When users apply geofences, they can receive instant updates on their phones regarding check-in and check-out of their people. 

Market Insights Of Services Using Geolocation

The pandemic badly hit geolocation-based industries like tourism and logistics, making businesses look for new ways to keep customers happy.

Despite the drop in consumer activity, they have adapted to modern methods to manage lockdown regulations. Their adjustments involve the usage of geolocation apps such as Apple Mapkit that bridge the gap between businesses and retailers. Even healthcare services rely on geolocation services and platforms.  

Research by MarketsandMarkets states that the location-based services and real-time location systems market is expected to experience a 17% compound annual growth rate within the next five years.

The market value was around USD 17.8 billion in 2021, and this number is expected to go up to USD 39.2 billion by 2025, signifying an estimated increase of 50% in revenue growth. In the coming years, even social media apps and user-oriented software like Whatsapp will significantly boost the location-based services market.

Explore the Future of Location Technology

Here’s an enhanced vision of the app with features that will redefine the navigation experience for users:

• Enhanced AI-Powered Navigation: The app utilizes advanced AI algorithms to continuously learn from user behavior and preferences, providing highly accurate and personalized navigation suggestions. It takes into account historical data, weather conditions, and real-time events to offer the most efficient and reliable routes.
• Sustainable Navigation: The app incorporates eco-conscious features, such as suggesting eco-friendly routes that reduce carbon footprints and promote green transportation options like walking, biking, or using public transport.
• Multilingual Support: To cater to a global audience, the app offers seamless multilingual support, ensuring users from different regions can navigate effortlessly in their preferred languages.
• Accessibility Features: The app is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring voice-guided navigation for the visually impaired and intuitive interfaces for users with motor disabilities.
• Community-Driven Updates: Users can contribute to the app by submitting real-time data on road closures, traffic conditions, and points of interest updates, fostering a dynamic and community-driven navigation experience.
• Emergency Assistance Integration: In case of emergencies, the app can automatically detect if the user requires immediate assistance based on sudden changes in location or other vital signs. It can then alert emergency services or designated contacts with the user’s location.
• Seamless Integration with Smart Cities: The app collaborates with smart city initiatives to access real-time data from city infrastructure, such as traffic signals and parking availability, ensuring smoother and efficient navigation in urban areas.
• AR City Exploration: Beyond navigation, the app provides an immersive AR-based city exploration feature, where users can point their cameras at landmarks to receive historical information, cultural insights, and engaging stories about the area.
• Ephemeral Location Sharing: Users can share their location with friends or family for a specific duration, promoting privacy while enabling easy meet-ups or group navigation.
• Virtual Travel Guides: For travelers, the app doubles as a virtual travel guide, offering curated itineraries, local events, and cultural experiences tailored to the user’s interests.
• Gamification for Commuting: To make daily commuting more enjoyable, the app gamifies the experience by rewarding users with points, badges, or special offers for choosing sustainable transportation options or optimizing their routes.
• Intelligent Parking Assistance: The app assists users in finding parking spots by leveraging real-time data on available parking spaces, minimizing the time spent searching for a spot.
• Weather Integration: Real-time weather updates are integrated into the app, providing users with weather conditions along their route, ensuring they are well-prepared for any weather-related challenges.
• Cross-App Integration: The app seamlessly integrates with other travel and lifestyle applications, allowing users to plan trips seamlessly and enhance their overall travel experience.
• Conscious Data Sharing: While data sharing is essential for app functionality, the app ensures transparency and allows users to choose the extent of data they want to share, maintaining user trust and privacy.

What Type of Applications Must Have a Location Tracking Feature in Them?

Location tracking features are particularly useful and relevant for various types of applications, including:

• On-demand delivery and ride-hailing services
• Fitness and health apps for tracking outdoor activities
• Social networking apps with location-based check-ins and recommendations
• Navigation and maps apps for real-time directions
• Parental control and family safety apps for monitoring children’s whereabouts
• Field service and workforce management apps for tracking employees in the field.

Technologies That Are Useful In Creating Location-Tracking Apps

The location-based mobile apps only function with up-to-date maps and location services. Getting more accurate Geolocation, requires the implementation of several technologies, such as:

1. GPS Module

GPS is a Global Positioning System, a satellite navigation technology providing data on Geolocation and time. The latest GPS technology offers accurate geolocation data within a few meters. 

2. Cell ID

Cellular Identification is a vital component of Geolocation as it is unique for every device. Even when the live data from a mobile device is not available, information from cell towers can provide an approximate location. 

3. Assisted GPS

Also known as Augmented GPS, it is a separate system that enhances the general performance of a GPS positioning technology. A combination of a Cell ID and A-GPS offers a more accurate location tracking as it improves the performance of standard GPS. 

4. Geofencing

is more like a virtual boundary where the location-tracking app executes a complex or straightforward pre-programmed action. The child-monitoring software uses an adapted version of geofence technology to track the movements of young children. 

5. iBeacon & Eddystone

This Bluetooth-based low-energy proximity sensor transmits a unique signal from beacons to receivers (an app). Google’s iBeacon version is Eddystone, and this technology is named after the lighthouse of England.

6. Geolocation For IoT

IoT-enabled devices carry out route tracking using geolocation coordinates. These IoT devices easily collect signals (data) from sensors similar to radio antennas. Then this data can be utilized to identify the device’s location coordinates. 

How Emizentech Can Help You with Location-Based Services?

Location tracking apps have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they offer a range of benefits for businesses and individuals alike. If you’re looking to develop a location-tracking app, here are some ways that we can help:

1. Conceptualization and Planning: We can work with you to develop a clear vision for your app and create a roadmap to guide the development process. This includes identifying the key features and functionalities you need, determining the target audience, and outlining the overall user experience.
2. Design and Development: Our team of experienced developers can bring your vision to life, building a custom app that meets your exact specifications. We’ll ensure the app is user-friendly, visually appealing, and optimized for performance.
3. Testing and Quality Assurance: We’ll conduct extensive testing before launching your app to ensure it functions smoothly and meets your expectations. Our quality assurance process includes testing for bugs, usability, security, and performance.
4. Maintenance and Support: After launching your app, we’ll continue to provide ongoing care and support, ensuring that it remains up-to-date and functions smoothly. We’ll also be available to address any issues or concerns.
5. Integration with Other Systems: If you need your location tracking app to integrate with other systems or platforms, such as social media, CRM, or e-commerce platforms, we can help you achieve this seamlessly.

Emizentech can help you create a powerful, effective location-tracking app that meets your needs and goals.

Conclusion

So, this is the list of top Location-tracking mobile apps; however, before installing the apps, it is vital to determine the risk involved. These tracking apps list has been created based on customer ratings and reviews while keeping their affordability and convenience in mind. This list guides you through many location-tracking apps with their many features, making it easier to find the one that works best for your purpose. 

If you want to build a location-tracking app, then get in touch with us. We are an app development company that builds robust and scalable mobile apps.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Insights for Best Location Tracking Apps