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15 Best Free Cell Phone Tracker by Number Apps [2025]

15 Best Free Cell Phone Tracker by Number Apps [2025]

Indeed, there are several reasons why one would want to track a cell phone. For example, in the case of a stolen phone or misplacement, tracking would help to recover the phone. Or maybe you’re a parent who wants to keep an eye on your kids’ whereabouts. Sometimes, it’s even about tracing an unknown number that keeps calling you. Whatever the reason, having the right tracking app can make all the difference.

Today, tracking cell phones has been made easy by using tracking apps. In most cases, you usually install a tracking app on the phone you wish to track, but thanks to technology, you can track a cell phone instantly without having to install an app on the device.

Amidst a sea of online websites offering free phone number tracking, finding one that’s easy to use and gets the job done can seem like a mission impossible.

To help calm your restless mind, we’ve curated a list of the best free cell phone tracker apps. Let’s get started and find the perfect match for you and your loved ones.

What Are Cell Phone Location Tracker Apps?

Would you believe it? Over 170 million Americans own a location-tracking device alongside their trusty smartphone. But for most folks, the go-to tool for tracking is right on our mobile devices.

Cell phone location tracker apps monitor a mobile device’s exact location in real time. Using GPS (Global Positioning System) technology or even Wi-Fi networks, these apps can pinpoint your exact coordinates.

A user-friendly interface lets you quickly check locations and access other information from your smartphone or linked devices. Keep track of your young ones after school or manage a fleet of company vehicles. These apps can cater to a wide array of needs. 

Types of Location Tracking Apps

After reviewing dozens of available apps, we’ve decided to break them into five distinct categories:

  • All-In-One Monitoring Solutions: These apps are your go-to for more than just basic location tracking. Packed with features like geofencing, location history, and parental controls, they cater to various tracking needs.
  • Phone Tracker by Number Apps: Ever wanted to locate a lost phone or track someone down using just their digits? These apps work their magic by pinpointing a device’s location based on phone numbers or unique links associated with IP addresses.
  • Reverse Phone Lookup Apps: Say goodbye to mystery callers with these handy apps that help uncover unknown numbers. They can dig up addresses linked to a number, or even look up information through the cell carrier.
  • Family and Friend Locator Apps: Instead of helping find lost phones, these apps are perfect for keeping an eye on family members or close pals. Watch your kids get on the bus, or find out how long until your guests arrive.
  • Built-In Tracking Features: Tools that come pre-installed on smartphones. You don’t have to download or install anything extra.

Which one is the best for you? That depends on several different things. Let’s examine some of the most popular apps on the market to see if one fits your needs. 

The Best Cell Phone Location Tracker Apps

When it comes to finding the right app to track a cell phone’s location, it can feel like there are way too many choices. Some are made for families, others for finding lost phones, and a few are just glorified phone books.

To save you the headache, we’ve compared the best location tracker apps side-by-side, highlighting their key features like real-time tracking, geofencing, compatibility, and more. Whether you’re trying to keep tabs on your loved ones or just want a backup in case your phone ever disappears, you’ll find the perfect match right here.

Feature Scannero Family Orbit GeoZilla Whoscall Find My Device
Compatibility (iOS/Android) ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ✔️
Real-time Location Tracking ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ ✔️
Geofencing Alerts ✔️ ✔️
Phone Number Lookup ✔️ ✔️
Contact List Access ✔️
Call Log Monitoring ✔️ ✔️
SMS Tracking ✔️
Lost Phone Recovery ✔️ ✔️
Reverse Lookup Database ✔️ ✔️
Family Safety Tools ✔️ ✔️

All-In-One Monitoring Solutions

All-in-one monitoring solutions are unwavering protectors of your digital well-being. They offer various surveillance features beyond simple location tracking to protect what matters most.

Family OrbitTop Pick

Family Orbit is the jack-of-all-trades tool that’s perfect for families. It is a digital hub for parents seeking to safeguard their children, from tots to teens. 

This versatile app is a reliable family tracker and a robust parental control system. It provides comprehensive protection against online dangers while enabling you to keep a keen eye on your kids’ smartphone engagements.

With a single Family Orbit account, you can access many features at an incredible value. From GPS tracking to call logs, real-time alerts, and even photo and video viewing privileges, this app has it all. It’s the ideal parenting toolkit—versatile, dependable, and indispensable.

Features:

  • GPS Location Tracking: Monitor the real-time location of family members.
  • Text and Call Logging: Keep track of incoming and outgoing calls and messages.
  • Website Activity Monitoring: View the websites visited on the monitored device.
  • Real-time Alerts: Receive immediate notifications for any specified activities.
  • Activity Timeline: Access a chronological log of phone activities.
  • Access to Photos and Videos: View multimedia files stored on the device.
  • Cross-platform Compatibility: Compatible with both Apple and Android devices.
  • Mobile Geofencing: Set up virtual boundaries and receive alerts when the device enters or exits them.
  • Check-ins and Emergency Alerts: Enable users to send check-ins or trigger emergency alerts.
📸 Family Orbit App Screenshots: See How It Works in Real Life

Operating System: iOS and Android.

Cost: Offers a 7-day trial. Premium plans are available for a monthly $19.95, a quarterly $39.95, and a yearly $89.95.

✅ Pros

  • Comprehensive parental control features
  • Real-time GPS tracking with geofencing alerts
  • Cross-platform support for iOS and Android

❌ Cons

  • Requires physical access for initial setup
  • Some features limited by iOS restrictions
My Rating: ★★★★★
Reviewer’s Take:

Family Orbit nails it when it comes to all-in-one tracking and monitoring, especially for families serious about online safety.


Mobile Tracker Free

Need to know where your sales team is? Want to track your fleet of technicians? Mobile Tracker Free can oversee employee activities and keep track of family members. 

Beyond GPS tracking, it allows users to monitor calls, texts, social media communications, and even remotely manage the device. So, no more YouTube before bed or Reddit while on the clock. 

Features:

  • SMS/MMS Tracking: Monitor text and multimedia messages.
  • Call Tracking and Recording: Keep track of incoming and outgoing calls and record conversations.
  • GPS Tracking: Track the real-time location of the device.
  • Image Monitoring: View photos stored on the device.
  • Social Media Monitoring: Monitor messages from popular social media platforms.
  • Remote control Functionalities: Perform various actions remotely, such as taking screenshots or capturing audio.

Operating System: Only Android.

Cost: Free to download with access to all features. Advanced versions are available for $6.48 (basic) and $16.19 (premium) for additional benefits.

✅ Pros

  • Completely free to start with full access to features
  • Solid call, text, and social media monitoring

❌ Cons

  • Not compatible with iOS devices
  • Limited AI or smart alert capabilities
My Rating: ★★★☆☆
Reviewer’s Take:

Mobile Tracker Free shines for Android users needing basic tracking, but falls short for iPhone users and anyone expecting AI-driven features.

TrackView

Throw Find My iPhone, Life360, Ring Video Doorbell, and a Nest security system into a blender. What do you get? TrackView. With this mobile app, you can turn your devices—smartphones, tablets, and computers—into full-fledged security systems. 

From seamless GPS tracking to video and audio surveillance, motion sensing, and even remote camera management, TrackView equips you with all the essential tools for a secure household or business.

Features:

  • GPS Tracking: Monitor the live location of the device.
  • IPCam: View live video and audio feeds from the device.
  • Instant Alerts: Receive notifications when motion or sound is detected.
  • Recording Capabilities: Record and store video footage in the cloud.
  • Remote Control: Control the device’s cameras from anywhere.
  • Privacy Protection: Ensure that only authorized users can access the device’s data.
  • Low-latency Updates: Receive updates and alerts in real-time with minimal delay.

Operating System: Available on the website. Also compatible with both Apple and Android devices.

Cost: Free to download and use. Offers in-app purchases, and two subscription plans: Gold (up to 20 devices) and Silver (up to 5 devices).

✅ Pros

  • Combines GPS tracking, surveillance, and security features in one app
  • Real-time alerts with video/audio feeds
  • Cross-platform support for iOS, Android, and computers

❌ Cons

  • Interface feels slightly outdated compared to newer apps
  • Cloud storage and full features locked behind subscription tiers
My Rating: ★★★☆☆
Reviewer’s Take:

TrackView brilliantly blends tracking, video surveillance, and motion alerts into a single app. If you want powerful security tools without investing in a separate system, this is a smart choice—just be ready to pay for cloud storage if you want the full package.

Family and Friend Locator Apps

You’re with the squad downtown, having a great time. Suddenly, a huge crowd fills the area. Panic sets in as a friend loses track of her son. He was right here a minute ago!

Thankfully, you’ve installed one of these family and friend locator apps. The heroes you never knew you needed.

Having family and friend locators makes it easier than ever to stay in touch with instant, real-time updates on everyone’s whereabouts. Checking in on the kids after school? Keeping an eye on your grandparents as they roam the neighborhood? These apps have your back. 

Life360

Feeling out of the loop? Life360 is the way to go. This family locator app gives you real-time locations, travel maps, and generous cloud storage to stash and share all your favorite spots. Not only can you track where your loved ones are, but you can also chat with them on the fly.

But wait, there’s more! Worried about that teenage driver you just lent the car to? Life360 can detect crashes and even analyze their driving skills. Pick from free or premium plans to enjoy all the perks you need. 

Features:

  • Location Tracking: Retrace your steps and find your favorite routes with a detailed location history.
  • Data Breach Alerts: Receive notifications if your family’s information is found on the dark web, ensuring your privacy and security.
  • Driver Safety Monitoring: Monitor your family’s driving habits and receive alerts for speeding, distracted driving, and more.
  • Life360 + Tile Integration: Link your Life360 and Tile accounts to see everyone and everything on your Life360 map.

Operating System: Available for both Apple and Android devices.

Cost: Free to download with basic features. Premium options are available for $4.99 monthly or $49.99 yearly for additional features such as 30 days of location history and unlimited places and alerts.

✅ Pros

  • Real-time tracking plus detailed location history
  • Crash detection and driver safety analysis
  • Tile integration for tracking items as well as people

❌ Cons

  • Some premium features are locked behind a paywall
  • Location accuracy can vary depending on the device
My Rating: ★★★★☆
Reviewer’s Take:

Life360 is the classic family tracker — reliable, feature-packed, and easy to use. Crash detection and dark web alerts add a layer of protection that most apps don’t even touch. It’s a must-try if you want that peace of mind.

GeoZilla

GeoZilla can track the location of your kids, friends, and seniors in real-time, alerting you if there is ever an issue. 

Smart location history and emergency, and crash detection allow GeoZilla to go above and beyond to keep everyone safe, no matter where they are.

Features:

  • Smart Location History: Leave check-ins and comments to let your family and friends know you’re safe and what you’re up to.
  • Emergency Alert: Instantly notify family members when someone is in danger and requires help.
  • Crash Detection & Driver Safety: Receive alerts for car accidents and monitor driving habits to lower the risk of accidents.
  • Driver Coaching: Educate family members on safe driving practices and reduce the possibility of accidents.
  • Pair with GPS Tracking Devices: Use GeoZilla with wearable devices to track pets, bags, or cars for added security.

Operating System: Available for both Apple and Android devices.

Cost: Free to download with limited features. In-app purchases are available for premium services. Quarterly subscriptions start at $39.99, annual subscriptions at $79.99, and weekly subscriptions at $5.99.

✅ Pros

  • Real-time tracking with smart location history
  • Crash detection and emergency alerts built-in
  • Integrates with GPS devices for pets, bags, and cars

❌ Cons

  • Premium plans are pricey compared to alternatives
  • Some features like driver coaching require extra setup
My Rating: ★★★★☆
Reviewer’s Take:

GeoZilla isn’t just a basic family tracker — it’s packed with life-saving tools like crash detection and emergency alerts. If safety is your top priority, it’s worth the subscription. Just be ready to pay a bit more than usual.

Glympse

Share your real-time location using Glympse. Since 2008, Glympse has been redefining communication by allowing people to share location information with anyone they want.

Seems intrusive? With minimal data retention and a commitment to privacy, Glympse ensures that your location-sharing experience is safe and secure. When you need to coordinate with friends or keep track of your children, share your location and provide an ETA without compromising your privacy.

Features:

  • Glympse Private Groups: Create private, invite-only groups for location sharing and coordination with family, friends, or coworkers.
  • Glympse Tags: Quickly view and share locations with multiple friends on a single map using public tags.
  • Glympse Premium Tags: Customize and brand your location-sharing experience with premium tags ideal for events and community gatherings.

Operating System: Available for both Apple and Android devices.

Cost: Free to download. In-app purchases are available for premium services such as Premium Public Tag ($99.99) and shares for single and multi-user for monthly and annual subscriptions, ranging from $9.99 up to $199.99.

✅ Pros

  • Real-time location sharing with strong privacy controls
  • Private Groups and Premium Tags for flexible coordination
  • Simple, user-friendly app that works cross-platform

❌ Cons

  • Premium features are expensive for casual users
  • Public sharing (Tags) can feel confusing for first-timers
My Rating: ★★★☆☆
Reviewer’s Take:

If you want quick, private, and no-strings-attached location sharing, Glympse still gets it right after all these years. Just watch out if you need Premium features—they aren’t cheap, but the core free app is excellent for everyday use.

Phone Tracker by Number Apps

Get a digital detective working the case. Phone tracker-by-number apps are like your own private investigator, allowing you to monitor a device by sending a tracking URL to the designated phone number.

Just send a simple text and you can locate a lost phone or keep an eye on a friend or family member.

Scannero – Number Tracker

Scannero can pull up detailed personal details or live location updates for most phone numbers. 

With features like phone lookup, people finder, and covert tracking, Number Tracker Pro ensures privacy and convenience are not compromised. Offering global accessibility and extensive information coverage, this app emerges as the perfect choice for all your phone number tracking needs.

Features:

  • Phone Lookup: Find detailed personal information from a phone number with ease.
  • People Finder: Locate individuals using their state, city, and name for comprehensive tracking.
  • Real-Time Tracker: Track the live location of any phone number for enhanced visibility.
  • Discreet Tracking: Search anonymously without revealing your identity for added privacy.
  • All Networks: Experience seamless tracking across all networks without any blockades.

Operating System: Available on the website. 

Cost: Sign up for a free account and start searching for phone numbers immediately. Purchase credits for ongoing searches, with options for ten credits at $9.95 or 50 credits at $29.95.

✅ Pros

  • Find real-time location from just a phone number
  • Anonymous searches for discreet tracking
  • Works globally across all networks

❌ Cons

  • Pay-per-credit system can add up for frequent users
  • Not an app — web only (no mobile app experience)
My Rating: ★★★★☆
Reviewer’s Take:

If you need fast, real-time updates from a phone number without tipping off the other person, Scannero is a beast. It’s crazy good for one-off searches, but if you’re hunting for dozens of numbers, just keep an eye on your credits.

CellTrack

CellTrack is a must-have phone tracking app by a number that helps you locate a phone without the hassle of installing special software or paying subscription fees.

With CellTrack, just input the number, wait for permission to be granted, and get real-time location. And don’t worry, CellTrack follows all the applicable laws and regulations that make sure tracking is legit and respects everyone’s privacy.

Features:

  • GDPR Compliant: Ensures compliance with data protection regulations for maximum privacy.
  • Geo Locate Any Phone: Track the location of any phone with pinpoint accuracy.
  • Live Telecom Information: Access live telecom data to gather valuable insights.
  • WhatsApp Status and Pictures Lookup: Get insights into WhatsApp activity for comprehensive tracking.
  • Send Spoken Messages: Communicate effortlessly with spoken messages for added convenience.

Operating System: Available on the website.

Cost: Free to register with no subscription needed. Payment is based on credit usage.

✅ Pros

  • Free to register with no subscriptions
  • GDPR compliant for added privacy protection
  • Track phones and get live telecom info without installing an app

❌ Cons

  • Tracking depends on user permission (may not work every time)
  • No dedicated mobile app (website only experience)
My Rating: ★★★☆☆
Reviewer’s Take:

CellTrack is a chill option if you want a no-frills, legal way to track someone’s phone by number — but just know they have to approve it. Super cool for casual use, but not foolproof if you’re expecting stealth mode.

IPLogger

Forget the stress of phone tracking. IPLogger is here to help. This phone tracker app works like a charm. Just shoot a link and gather data instantly. Ask for a location, pop in the number, and fire off an SMS with the link.

Once the user agrees to share their location, you’ll get email updates with all the info you need. With top-notch GDPR consent tech and compatibility with all countries and networks, IPLogger guarantees smooth tracking wherever you roam.

Features:

  • GDPR Consent Collection Technology: Ensures compliance with data protection regulations for enhanced privacy.
  • Branded Domains: Customize your IP logging with branded domains for increased professionalism.
  • Telegram Bot: Access IPLogger services directly from your Telegram account for added convenience.
  • API Access: Integrate IPLogger services into your applications for enhanced functionality.
  • SMART Loggers: Capture a wealth of information, including IP addresses, hardware details, browser information, and more for comprehensive tracking.

Operating System: Available on the website.

Cost: $5.39 for each device, with premium plans starting at $16.17 for complete features and customizable options.

✅ Pros

  • Simple link-based tracking without needing an app
  • Strong GDPR compliance to stay fully legal
  • Custom branded domains for a professional touch
  • Works globally across all networks and countries

❌ Cons

  • User has to click and agree to share their location
  • Not a true “silent” tracker — full consent needed
My Rating: ★★★☆☆
Reviewer’s Take:

IPLogger is super handy if you want a lightweight, link-based way to track someone — legally and cleanly. Just remember: it’s not a “spy app,” because the other person has to opt-in by clicking the link. Best for low-key tracking, not full stealth missions.

Reverse Phone Lookup Apps

Your phone lights up with the words “unknown caller” splashed across the home screen. Panic.

“Who could that be?” 

We’ve all felt that frustration when receiving a call from someone you don’t know. Is it a scam? A telemarketer? Or just one of my friends calling from a new number? Fortunately, modern reverse phone lookup apps can give you the answer without much trouble.

With a few taps, you can access extensive details about any phone number, such as linked addresses and contact information. Identify telemarketers, find potential scam calls, or find out more about a missed call that didn’t leave a voicemail. 

Whoscall

Whoscall has an impressive track record of over 100 million downloads and a vast database containing more than 1.6 billion numbers. 

Remember when you picked up every call? With a powerful real-name system and partnerships with law enforcement, Whoscall means you can answer the phone without worrying about scams. 

Features:

  • Caller Identification: Instantly identify callers and prioritize important calls.
  • Whoscall Verified Callers: Trustworthy callers receive green badges for added credibility.
  • Unknown Number Search: Easily track unknown numbers within the app’s extensive database.
  • Spam Call Blocking: Block specific phone numbers to enjoy uninterrupted quality time.
  • Auto Spam Call Blocker: Automatically blocks frequently reported spam calls for hassle-free communication.
  • Smart SMS Assistant: Detects text and URLs in unknown SMS and sorts them into different categories.

Operating System: Available on the website. Compatible with both Apple and Android devices.

Cost: Free to download with basic features. Premium plans are available for $1.99 per month or $19.99 per year, offering additional functionalities.

✅ Pros

  • Massive database with 1.6 billion+ numbers for quick ID
  • Verified Callers feature adds a real layer of trust
  • Solid spam call blocking and automatic filters
  • Smart SMS Assistant is awesome for sorting suspicious texts

❌ Cons

  • App interface feels a little crowded compared to simpler competitors
  • Some advanced features need the Premium plan
My Rating: ★★★★★
Reviewer’s Take:

Whoscall is an absolute beast when it comes to caller identification. If you’re tired of getting hit with scam calls or random texts, their huge database and partnership with real law enforcement give it a serious edge. While the app could use a bit of polish to feel less busy, it delivers huge value — even for free users. Plus, Premium is super affordable if you want even more muscle against spam.

Truecaller

Join 374 million friends in the worldwide Truecaller community. As one of the most popular call and SMS identification apps., it helps users escape pesky spam calls and reveal the truth behind mysterious numbers.

The massive database of information is crowdsourced and moderated by the app community, meaning it is always getting more detailed and accurate. The app also boasts cutting-edge tools like Truecaller Assistant and Call Recording, guaranteeing smoother and more secure communication. 

Features:

  • Truecaller Assistant: Uses machine learning and speech-to-text technology to provide caller insights and call reasons.
  • Call Recording: Record incoming and outgoing calls for enhanced productivity.
  • Spam Call Detection: Automatically identifies and blocks spam, fraud, and robocalls.
  • Caller Identification: Look up the name and other contact information of any domestic or international caller.

Operating System: Compatible with Apple and Android phones. 

Cost: Free limited features. Premium subscriptions start at $4.49 per month or $29.99 per year.

✅ Pros

  • Massive database with 374M+ users for highly accurate identification
  • Top-notch spam blocking and call filtering
  • Caller ID even for unknown international numbers
  • Extra tools like call recording and AI-powered Truecaller Assistant

❌ Cons

  • Premium features locked behind a subscription paywall
  • Some privacy concerns since it’s a crowdsourced database
My Rating: ★★★★☆
Reviewer’s Take:

Truecaller is basically the OG when it comes to recognizing unknown numbers and dodging scam calls. It’s crazy accurate thanks to its massive community database, and the extras like AI call screening and recording make it even more powerful. Just keep in mind — it needs access to your contacts to work its magic, so if you’re super strict about privacy, that’s something to consider.

Hiya

More than five million users rely on Hiya, a powerful tool that recognizes and prevents annoying spam calls while giving you a peak behind the curtain of unknown callers. 

With features like Spoofed Call Protection and Call Screener, Hiya enables users to manage their incoming calls efficiently. 

Features:

  • Spoofed Call Protection: Prevents deceiving scam calls from numbers resembling your own.
  • Caller ID: Provides real-time context about incoming calls, whether from businesses, friends, or potential spammers.
  • Reverse Phone Lookup: Quickly identify unsaved contact numbers and determine if they are robocalls.
  • Call Screener: Gain insights into the caller’s identity and purpose before answering the call.
  • Voicemail Protection: Prevents spam voicemails from cluttering your inbox.

Operating System: Available on the website. Compatible with both Apple and Android devices.

Cost: Free to download with basic features. Premium plans start at $3.99 per month, offering an enriched calling experience.

✅ Pros

  • Top-tier spam and scam protection with Spoofed Call Guard
  • Super helpful reverse phone lookup to ID unknown numbers
  • Call Screener gives you caller insights before you even pick up
  • Voicemail spam filtering keeps your inbox clean

❌ Cons

  • Some of the best features are locked behind the Premium upgrade
  • Reverse lookup can miss smaller or newer numbers sometimes
My Rating: ★★★☆☆
Reviewer’s Take:

Hiya is a straight-up life-saver if you’re tired of scam calls pretending to be your neighbor. The Spoofed Call Protection alone makes it worth checking out. Plus, the real-time Caller ID and Call Screener are super handy for making smarter decisions about which calls to take. It’s not 100% perfect (especially without Premium), but honestly, for most people, even the free version is a game-changer.

Built-In or Pre-Installed Tracking Features

We should barely even call them phones anymore. Smartphones do so much more than place calls. They’re pocket computers and your trusty sidekick for location tracking.

These days, almost all of them come with built-in location tracking tech. From pinpointing a lost phone in the couch cushions to logging its every move on a map during a busy day out, these features make sure that the device (and its user) is never truly out of reach. 

Find My Device (Android)

Put an end to the frantic hunt for your misplaced phone with Google’s Find My Device app. 

Native to Android devices, it uses GPS technology to track a device’s precise location (as long as it is signed into a Google account and Location Permission has been granted).

Once configured, you can remotely track a device’s location, turn on the ringer to chase it down, or even wipe the data from any potential thieves. 

Features:

  • Location Tracking: GPS technology tracks the device’s live location.
  • Device Management: Offers remote management options such as locking, wiping, or ringing the device.
  • Remote Access: Requires the target Android device to be logged into a Google account and have Location Permission enabled. Once set up, you can access the device’s location remotely.

Operating System: Compatible exclusively with Android devices.

Cost: Free.

✅ Pros

  • Native integration with all Android devices
  • Allows remote locking, locating, and data wiping
  • Completely free and extremely reliable
  • Can locate devices even if they’re on silent mode

❌ Cons

  • Requires device to be powered on and connected to the internet
  • Needs Location Services and Google account access enabled beforehand
My Rating: ★★★★½☆
Reviewer’s Take:

If you’re using Android, Find My Device is an absolute no-brainer. It’s easy, free, and incredibly effective at locating lost devices, even if they’re hiding under a pile of laundry. Just make sure you’ve set it up properly ahead of time — it can’t help if permissions aren’t granted beforehand.

Find My iPhone (iOS)

Most Apple users have had to use the Find My app at least once, and they’ll all agree it’s a total lifesaver. Whether you’re tracking an iPhone, iPad, AirPods, or MacBook, this built-in tool keeps your devices safe, secure, and always within reach.

Compatible across the entire Apple ecosystem, Find My uses a powerful mix of GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cell tower data to pinpoint a device’s exact location. You can also share your location with trusted family and friends directly through the Find My app — no separate app needed.

Features:

  • Cell Phone Tracking: Fast and secure tracking with the Find My function.
  • Integration: Native to iOS devices, easily accessible from the iCloud website or the Find My iPhone app.
  • Remote Management: Lock a device, display a message, or remotely wipe its data when needed.

Operating System: Compatible with Apple devices but can be used with other items equipped with an Apple AirTag.

Cost: Free.

✅ Pros

  • Built directly into iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and AirTags
  • Extremely accurate using GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cell towers
  • Remote lock, erase, and sound alert features
  • Share your location securely with trusted contacts

❌ Cons

  • Requires Apple ID login and active internet connection
  • Setup needed in advance (Find My must be turned on manually)
My Rating: ★★★★★
Reviewer’s Take:

Apple’s Find My system is pure magic. Whether it’s your iPhone, AirPods, or even a backpack tagged with an AirTag, you can track it all in seconds. It’s built-in, intuitive, and insanely reliable — easily one of the best location features any device has ever shipped with.

Samsung Find My Device

Samsung’s SmartThings Find seems heaven-sent when your precious smart device goes missing or gets swiped. Like Google’s trusty Find My Device, it has all the bells and whistles to keep your Samsung device safe and sound.

Much like the other free apps, GPS is used to pinpoint exactly where your Samsung phone is hanging out. From remotely locking your device to wiping its data, Samsung Find My Device ensures your personal information stays safe.

And with the seamless SmartThings Find integration, tracking your missing device can be done in seconds.

Features:

  • GPS Tracking: Tracks a device’s location accurately, even when offline. 
  • Remote Management: Remotely locks a device, displays a message, or wipes its data to protect personal information.
  • Integration: Seamlessly integrated into Samsung devices, accessible through the Samsung account website or the Find My Mobile app.

Operating System: Compatible exclusively with Samsung devices.

Cost: Free.

✅ Pros

  • Tracks Samsung devices even when offline
  • Integrates seamlessly with the SmartThings app
  • Allows remote lock, erase, and emergency contact setup
  • Built into your Samsung account — no extra app needed

❌ Cons

  • Only works with Samsung devices (no cross-platform support)
  • Setup requires signing into Samsung account and enabling permissions
My Rating: ★★★★☆
Reviewer’s Take:

Samsung users get a lot of love with SmartThings Find — it’s fast, accurate, and even finds devices that are offline. It’s a fantastic backup plan, but just know that if you’re not fully locked into Samsung’s ecosystem, you’ll need another tracker for anything non-Samsung.

Concerned about your child’s online safety?
Try Family Orbit and monitor their phone activity.
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FAQs

Is It Legal to Use Phone Tracker Apps?

Legal device tracking is allowed for reasons such as employer monitoring, parental control, and law enforcement.

It is illegal to use a location tracker and other apps for stalking, hacking, and spying, so make sure to bear that in mind.

When it comes to data privacy, reputable phone tracker apps have advanced security measures which means that all the information that you’re going to acquire through the target device will stay private.

Can I Track Someone’s Phone Without Their Permission?

Though you are legally allowed to install a location tracker on a smartphone that belongs to you, you might want to tell your employee or child that you have done that to avoid any future conflicts.

What Should I Consider Before Tracking Phone Location?

All GPS location-sharing apps and software should be used responsibly, and, ideally, you should first get the permission of the second person to install an app or special software that will be tracking his or her location and cell phone activity.

TL;DR: Best Ways to Track a Phone by Number

Whatever your need — simple tracking, family monitoring, or recovering a lost phone — there’s a perfect solution waiting for you!

To Sum Up

The best phone tracker apps mentioned above can easily help you locate your loved ones or protect your children from cyberbullying, for example. The powerful tools can easily help you take the safety of your kids to another level or find out whether your employees are doing what they are paid for or not.

All the above free cell phone tracking apps will do a good job of tracking a cell phone using the number. Therefore, you’ll be able to easily know the whereabouts of your family, friends, and employees. Some of them will also reveal basic information about the owner. If you want more accurate details, the Family Orbit app is the best. Family Orbit will not only help you locate a phone but also monitor and control all the phone activities of a person. Therefore, if you’re a parent, you must try this amazing app.

Best Cell Phone Monitoring App

163,124 people have signed up.

  • Monitor Calls & Text Messages
  • View Photos and Videos
  • Location Tracking & Geofence
  • Monitor WhatsApp & Kik
  • Detect & Alert for Inappropriate Activities
  • Monitor Websites Visited
  • Compatible with Android and iOS
Linda Russell

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