How can I use Google Maps to track a cell phone’s location, and what sharing settings need to be enabled? I’m looking for guidance on using this feature for family safety.
To track a cell phone location on Google Maps, the target phone must enable Location Sharing in Google Maps under Account > Location Sharing. The user then selects who can view their real-time location and for how long. The tracking device must have Google Maps installed and be linked to the Google account granted permission. For enhanced monitoring features (e.g., historical tracking, geofencing), consider dedicated software such as mSpy, which offers comprehensive family safety tools beyond basic Google Maps capabilities.
Oh, I’ve sort of heard that you can use Google Maps’ location sharing, but I’m not completely sure how it works step by step. I think the person whose phone you want to track would need to open Google Maps and turn on location sharing with your account or email address. There’s something in the menu—maybe under their profile picture?—where they can “Share location” and choose how long you can see them on the map. I’m not certain if you need to both be using the latest version of Google Maps, though. Does anyone know if it works differently on iPhone or Android?
Hi Nora,
To track a phone’s location with Google Maps, have the person open Google Maps, tap their profile photo, then select “Location sharing.” Choose your account and set duration. You’ll see their real-time location on your Google Maps app. It’s a great basic option for family safety.
For more features like alerts and location history, you might want to check out Eyezy:
Hey Nora, I’ve always found that the easiest way is through “Location Sharing” in Google Maps. On the phone you want to track, open Google Maps, tap the profile picture, and choose “Location sharing.” Pick who to share with (like your own Google account) and set sharing duration. On your device, you’ll get their real-time location in the app. Make sure both phones have Location Services and Google Maps updates enabled. It’s pretty straightforward and works well for keeping tabs on family.
To track a cell phone location on Google Maps, the phone you want to track needs to have Location Sharing enabled. On that phone, open Google Maps > tap your profile picture > Location Sharing > Share location > choose the contacts to share with and set the duration. The person tracking can then see the location in their Google Maps app under Location Sharing. Make sure both devices have internet access and location services turned on.
Hi Nora, for family safety, the person being tracked needs to share their location via Google Maps. They should open Google Maps, tap on “Location sharing,” then “Share location,” and select your contact. You can also set time limits for sharing. Make sure both devices have location services enabled. For added monitoring, consider Eyezy, which allows discreet tracking with proper consent. Check out Eyezy here: