Phone tracker apps function by turning on the tracking system on a specific device. This lets you find out where the owner is right now and see where they’ve been before. They have various features to monitor the phone’s activities like social media usage, web history, calls, and texts.

If you’re looking for such an app, keep reading to learn about 15 of the top options for tracking a device without the owner knowing.

Why You Should Consider Using a Mobile Tracker App

Losing your smartphone can be a real nightmare. It’s not just about the cost of the device, but also the sensitive information it holds. A mobile tracker app can be a lifesaver in such situations. It helps you locate your phone in real-time, which significantly boosts your chances of getting it back. Tracking your phone is especially crucial if it’s stolen or misplaced. You can even use your phone’s IMEI number to track it down.

Key Features to Look for in a Mobile Tracker App

When choosing a mobile tracker app, certain features are essential. These include:

GPS tracking: This allows you to pinpoint the exact location of your device.
Geofencing: You can set up virtual boundaries, and if your phone crosses them, you’ll get notified.
Remote wipe: In case your phone is irretrievable, you can remotely erase all the data on it to protect your privacy.
App usage monitoring: You can keep tabs on which apps are being used on your phone.
Panic alerts: Some apps offer panic buttons that, when pressed, send out distress signals to designated contacts.

Top 15 Free Cell Phone Tracker App To Use

These apps alert users when, for example, a child exits a designated area. We’ve reviewed over 50 options and identified the top 8 tracking apps. Our selection process considered factors like ease of setup, availability of free trials, and the effectiveness of location monitoring features.

Here’s our list of the Top Phone Tracker Apps that operate without needing explicit permission.

1.uMobix

uMobix is a well-known spy app designed for tracking the whereabouts of your loved ones through their devices. Setting it up is simple: just create an account, install it on the target device, and access location information from your dashboard.

It’s particularly useful for keeping tabs on where your kids or spouse spend their time, ensuring their safety and appropriateness. Here are some other features you can utilize to monitor their activities:

Key Features of uMobix :

Monitoring call logs
Accessing contact lists
Keylogger function
Automatic updates
Monitoring text messages
Tracking social media app usage
Live streaming
Viewing deleted information like messages, calls, and contacts
Tracking web browser usage
Remote control capabilities (such as deleting unwanted apps, restricting apps, blocking websites, limiting calls, deleting messages, etc.)
Media tracker for photos and videos
Notifications

Pros:

Easy one-click installation
User-friendly interface
Live demo available
No need for jailbreaking
Compatible with both iPhone and Android devices
14-day money-back guarantee
Offers a 1-day free trial for just $1 with access to all advanced features

Cons:

Only offers a 1-day free trial

You can try out uMobix for just $1 to experience its features firsthand.

2. mSpy

mSpy is a leading mobile tracking app that offers over 20 features, including monitoring of social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Snapchat. It provides real-time messaging control and operates discreetly. Compatible with Android 4+ and iOS 11+, it features GPS tracking and remote access. Customers benefit from 24/7 multilingual support and a 14-day refund policy for quality assurance.

Features mSpy :

Real-time GPS location tracking and travel history of the monitored device.
Monitoring of all incoming and outgoing calls, including timestamps and duration.
Recording of journey patterns and routes.
Discreet operation in the background.
Screen activity recording on the device.
Real-time monitoring of various online behaviors.
Customer support without the need for jailbreaking or rooting the device.
Regular updates on location at specified intervals.
Live screen recording capability.
Budget-friendly subscription plans starting at $11.66 per month for yearly plans.
14-day return policy for customer satisfaction.

Pros:

Ability to recover and track erased text messages.
Support for monitoring various instant messaging applications.
Monitoring of network connections, including WiFi.

Cons:

Potential loss of data stored in mSpy if the tracked device is reset to factory settings.

3. EyeZy

EyeZy claims to be “the most powerful phone monitoring software on the planet.” While this assertion is bold, does it hold true? We discovered that EyeZy indeed boasts powerful technological features that enable parents to stay informed about their kids’ activities on and off their phones.

For instance, their GPS location tracker activates the GPS system on the target device, allowing you to monitor their whereabouts and access location history. Here are more features offered by the app:

Key Features Eyezy:

GPS location tracking
Monitoring of text messages
WhatsApp Monitoring
Access to call logs and contact lists
Keylogger function
Ability to view deleted text messages
Screen recording
Monitoring of social media activities like Instagram
Access to calendar, notes, and events
Monitoring of media files such as photos and videos
Web browser activity monitoring
Remote control functionalities (including app blocking, WiFi control, and website blocking)
Geofencing capabilities
Keyword alerts

Pros:

Compatible with both iOS and Android devices
Easy installation process
User-friendly interface
Offers a free live demo
14-day money-back guarantee
Reliable 24/7 customer support
No need for rooting or jailbreaking the device
Undetectable by the target user

Cons:

Does not offer a free trial

4. Intelius

Intelius offers a robust solution for parents to remotely monitor their children’s whereabouts. It notifies parents when their child enters or leaves specified areas through its geo-fencing tool. This versatile app works on Android, iOS, and Windows platforms, accurately displaying locations on Google Maps. Additionally, it provides a 5-day free trial period.

Features Intelius:

Easy access to mobile device files from anywhere.
Seamless real-time data syncing over 3G/4G or Wi-Fi connections.
Enhanced security management for privacy and confidentiality.
Capability to record calls on the child’s phone for monitoring.
Multilingual support catering to a global audience.
Remote screenshot functionality for supervision purposes.
Full access to user credentials and data for comprehensive monitoring.
GPS tracking feature for pinpointing locations.
Live screen recording for immediate observation.
Budget-friendly pricing starting at $0.95 per month.
Offers a 5-day free trial to test the service.

Pros:

Facilitates discovery of connections and relationships through searches.
Provides reverse phone lookups and address searches.
Efficiently updates and organizes contact lists.

Cons:

Lack of clear pricing details on the website may require personal inquiries for exact costs.

5. TheOneSpy

TheOneSpy stands out as the top choice for those seeking undetectable and versatile phone monitoring software. This potent spy tool is designed for supervising both children and employees, offering a wide array of capabilities. It operates discreetly in the background, ensuring the target remains unaware of being monitored. With its robust features, you can track the real-time whereabouts of your target effortlessly.

Key Features TheOneSpy:

Real-time GPS tracking
Tracking of messages
Recording of VoIP calls
Keylogger functionality
Surround recording
Operates in stealth mode
Tracking of social media activities
Monitoring of browser history
Remote control features
Geo-fencing alerts
Multimedia monitoring

Pros:

Smooth operation
Easy installation process
User-friendly interface
Responsive customer support
Affordable pricing plans

Cons:

Basic plan offers limited features

6. Spokeo

Spokeo is a comprehensive personal search platform that utilizes names and phone numbers to reveal details such as financial status, birthdays, and special dates. It is accessible on Android, Windows, and iOS devices, providing 24/7 assistance.

This user-focused service allows free access to initial search results.

Features Spokeo:

Offers a free initial search with its cell phone lookup feature.
Known for its rapid delivery of accurate information.
Tailored solutions are available for business clients.
Provides automatic updates on data changes.
Includes a people search tool to promptly identify unknown call and email sources, enhancing defense against scams.
Offers GPS position monitoring.
Does not include live screen recording.
Accessible pricing starts from just $0.95 for a week’s use.
Basic searches can be conducted at no cost.

Pros:

Known for its quick turnaround on search queries.
Specializes in providing detailed insights on unlisted numbers.
Premium membership offers unlimited search options.

Cons:

Availability of Spokeo’s services is limited to the United States only.

7. Cocospy

Cocospy is highly regarded as a top parental control app that aids in keeping track of your loved ones. Setting it up is hassle-free: simply install and configure it on the target device, and you can access all information about that device from your own Cocospy dashboard.

Key Features Cocospy:

GPS location tracking
Call tracking
SMS tracking
Geofencing
Social media monitoring
Stealth mode operation
Web browser tracking

Pros:

Easy setup process
Available for both Android and iPhones
Operates discreetly
Free to create an account and install the app
Offers a free live demo
Provides up to a 60-day refund policy

Cons:

Offers fewer features for iPhones

8. Overwatch

Overwatch stands out as a leading phone tracking app, discreetly monitoring up to five devices simultaneously. It utilizes WiFi, GPS, and cell towers for precise location tracking and provides access to contacts, calendars, tasks, and notes.

Compatible with Android and iOS, it offers remote monitoring and a 3-day free trial for comprehensive surveillance.

Features Overwatch :

Monitor and review the web browsing history of the target smartphone.
Automatically capture screenshots on the monitored device.
Access camera functionalities for remote picture taking on rooted devices.
Geofencing capabilities with notifications for SIM card changes.
Automatically capture front camera photos upon device activation.
Record telephonic conversations.
Remotely install stealthily from an online account.
Detect changes in SIM card usage.
Top-tier mobile tracking application compatible without requiring jailbreak.

Pros:

Provides comprehensive access to both incoming and outgoing data on the target device.
Offers full visibility into communications exchanged through the device.

Cons:

The trial period is notably brief, offering limited time to assess the app’s capabilities.

9. Spyic

Spyic is a top choice for those seeking a simple interface and easy-to-use phone tracking app. It can monitor over 40 types of data, including calls, GPS locations, and social media activities. Operating in stealth mode, it is compatible with both Android and iPhones.

Getting started with Spyic is effortless. Simply sign up for free, set it up on the target device, and begin monitoring. Explore more of its features below.

Key Features Spyic:

Location tracking
Call tracking
SMS monitoring
Geofencing
Social media monitoring
Stealth mode operation
Website history monitoring
SIM location tracking

Pros:

Free live demo available for both Android and iOS
Free sign-up
Easy setup and installation
User-friendly interface and navigation
Compatible with Android and iPhones
Up to 60 days refund policy
Excellent customer service
No jailbreak required for iOS devices

Cons:

Some features may require jailbreaking or rooting.

10. Geofinder

Geofinder is an advanced mobile tracking app that accurately traces phone numbers on a map, regardless of the network. This versatile tool, compatible with both Android and iOS devices, not only locates phones but also enables remote monitoring and personalized SMS features.

Its universal compatibility across phone brands and models makes it a reliable choice. Additionally, Geofinder offers a free trial for added accessibility.

Features Geofinder:

No Live Screen Recording: Does not include a live screen recording feature.
Seamless Compatibility Across All Mobile Networks: Works smoothly with a wide range of mobile network operators.
GPS Tracking Functionality: Integrated GPS tracking capability for precise location tracking.
Customizable Alert Messages: Craft personalized messages for recipients of location alerts.
Location Tracking by Phone Number: Pinpoints the exact location of a phone using only its phone number.
Unlimited Geo-Location Queries: No restrictions on the number of location requests you can make.
Detailed Map-Based Location Information: Access comprehensive location data visually presented on a map.
Infinite Geo-Location Messaging: Send an unlimited number of location requests to the target device.

Pros:

Effortless Location Discovery: Easily track individuals by inputting their phone numbers.
Anonymous Tracking: Monitor cell phone locations covertly without detection.
No Jailbreak Required: Functions effectively without the need to jailbreak the target device.

Cons:

Delayed Location Reporting: May experience noticeable delays in obtaining precise target device location and coordinates.

11. FlexiSPY

FlexiSPY phone tracking software offers comprehensive monitoring capabilities for the target device. Once you create your account and enable monitoring, you can access various aspects of the device, including installed apps, social media activity, text messages, and location history.

Key Features FlexiSPY:

Phone call recording
GPS location tracking
Environment recording
Social media monitoring
Call notification alerts
Remote control
Text messages monitoring
Call logs tracking
Monitoring of dating apps including Tinder and WeChat
Contact list access
MMS monitoring
Geofencing
Installed apps tracking
Viewing photos, videos, and audio files
Stealth mode operation

Pros:

Fast and easy installation and navigation
Secretly track a target phone
Multiple monitoring features
10-day refund policy
Offers a 24-hour full premium access free trial
Rooting/jailbreak is not necessary for most features

Cons:

Only offers a 1-day free trial access
Some advanced features require rooting/jailbreak

12. Hoverwatch

Hoverwatch is a widely-used phone tracking application suitable for parental control, employee monitoring, spouse monitoring, and various other legitimate monitoring purposes without the target’s knowledge. It boasts easy installation, user-friendly operation, and a plethora of monitoring features.

Key Features Hoverwatch:

Phone tracking
Social media tracking
Text messages monitoring
Call logs monitoring
Viewing contact lists
Monitoring internet history
Screenshot capture
GPS location tracking
Access to calendar and notes

Pros:

Compatible with both Android and iOS devices
Easy setup process
Offers up to 3 days of free trial

Cons:

Does not offer a money-back guarantee

13. Spylix

Spylix offers an intuitive and user-friendly dashboard, making installation and setup a breeze. It boasts multiple advanced features for phone tracking, allowing users to monitor text messages, phone calls, contact lists, social media apps usage, and more.

Spylix Key Features:

GPS location tracking
Call logs and text message tracking
Access to contact lists
Notes and calendar spying
Photos and video monitoring
WiFi monitoring
Keyword alerts
Keylogger
Installed app monitoring
Web browsing monitoring
Access to email
Social media monitoring
Geofencing
Remote control (app and website blocking, etc.)
Screen recording

Pros:

Fast and easy installation process
Easy-to-navigate dashboard
Free account registration
Remote installation capability
Offers a free live demo
More features available for iOS devices
14-day refund policy

14. Spyera

Spyera is an excellent phone tracking app for monitoring social media, app usage, and GPS location. It is compatible with Android, iOS, Windows PC, and Mac OS, making it versatile for various monitoring needs.

Key Features Spyera:

GPS location tracking
Live call recording
Surrounding listening/recording
Social media monitoring
Keyword monitoring
Remote control
Keylogger
Screenshot capture
Notification alerts
Access to saved contact lists
SMS and MMS monitoring
Email spying
Web browsing monitoring
Access to calendar
Geofencing
SIM change notification

How to Choose the Right Mobile Tracker App for You

When selecting a mobile tracker app, consider the following factors:

Specific Tracking Needs: Determine what aspects you need to track, such as location, calls, messages, or social media activity.
Device Compatibility: Ensure that the app is compatible with your device’s operating system (Android, iOS, etc.).
User Reviews: Read reviews from other users to gauge the app’s reliability, performance, and user satisfaction.
Ease of Use: Choose an app with a user-friendly interface and straightforward setup process for hassle-free usage.

Setting Up and Using Your Phone Tracker App

Once you’ve chosen an app, follow these steps to set it up and start using it effectively:

Follow the Setup Guide: Consult the app’s setup guide to enable tracking and security features on the target device.
Familiarize Yourself with the Interface: Take the time to explore the app’s interface to understand how to navigate and utilize its features effectively.

Privacy Concerns and Legal Considerations

While mobile tracker apps offer valuable services, it’s crucial to address privacy concerns and legal boundaries:

Obtain Proper Consent: Always ensure that you have the consent of the person you’re tracking, especially when monitoring minors or employees.
Respect Privacy Rights: Be mindful of privacy rights and avoid intruding on others’ privacy or accessing sensitive information without authorization.

The Future of Mobile Tracking Technology

As technology evolves, mobile tracker apps are expected to advance with the following trends:

AI-Driven Features: Expect mobile tracker apps to integrate AI-driven capabilities for more accurate tracking and predictive analysis.
Enhanced User Experience: Look for improvements in user experience, with streamlined interfaces and intuitive features.
Expanded Tracking Capabilities: Anticipate new tracking features and functionalities to meet evolving user needs and technological advancements.

15 Best Phone Tracker App Without Them Knowing

Why You Should Consider Using a Mobile Tracker App

Key Features to Look for in a Mobile Tracker App