8 Methods To Track An Android From An iPhone

Regardless of your vigilance, you might lose track of your phone at some point in your life. Fortunately, technological advancements now facilitate us to track devices remotely, even with different operating systems like Android and iOS. This enables you to monitor your whereabouts while allowing for real-time connectivity with your loved ones in the digital world. Continue reading to learn how to track an Android phone from an iPhone.

1. Install Third-Party Apps

Technological progressions have given birth to numerous applications that enable connectivity between Android and iPhone devices. You can find countless options on the Apple Store, but not all guarantee a consistent and reliable experience.

Most location trackers feature built-in GPS tracking or leverage Wi-Fi connections to sustain continuous monitoring. Some advanced apps or premium service packages offer additional functionalities. For example, certain applications provide an overview of the smartphone’s activities, including messages, calls, and Internet searches – valuable tools for parents to keep their children in check.

Each tracking app requires its unique installation procedure. However, you can follow a general process as below:

• Step 1: Open the Apple Store and search for the desired application.
• Step 2: Tap Download and wait for it to install.
• Step 3: Access the application and follow the on-screen instructions.

Here are some general location-tracking apps:

• Find My Device
• Life360
• mSpy

Important note: Mind your privacy, including personal and payment details. Consider the app providers carefully and steer clear of fishy applications that pose risks to user data exposure.

2. Utilize “Find My Device” Function

If you are concerned about security measures, using Google’s powerful “Find My Device” functionality is a great alternative. Due to the absence of an app version tailored for iPhones, users must access this tool through a web browser using their Google account.

Here is a step-by-step guide to activate this feature:

• Step 1: Open a web browser on your iPhone, typically Safari.
• Step 2: Paste the URL https://www.google.com/android/find/ into the address bar.
• Step 3: Sign in with the Google account linked to your Android phone and tap Next.
• Step 4: Enter your password and click Next once more. You can then utilize the location tag to pinpoint your smartphone’s exact location or activate essential security functionalities.

On the downside, this simple method may prove ineffective if the GPS on the mobile device is disabled. The accuracy of the location services also depends on the network connection. Additionally, the 2-step verification requires a verification code to proceed further. If your device is lost, you are at a dead end.

3. Use Google Location Sharing

The good news is that iPhones can share location with Androids. For those seeking to maintain connectivity with acquaintances who utilize Android devices, Google Location Sharing comes in handy. True to its name, this feature allows real-time location sharing between distinct users.

The installation and operation process entails the following steps:

• Step 1: Open Google Maps and tap on your profile image to access the settings menu.
• Step 2: Click Share Your Location > Get Started.
• Step 3: Select the Android contacts you want to stay in touch with and specify the connection duration.
• Step 4: Tap Share, and the Android user will be notified about your follow-ups.

It is worth noting that you must obtain the consent of the target Android users to monitor their movement. Tracking efficiency also hinges on a stable Internet connection to ensure seamless updates of your current locations.

4. Leverage the “Find My Mobile” Feature On Samsung

Samsung smartphones come with a feature akin to “Find My Device.” To activate this functionality, navigate to the settings menu, locate “Find My Mobile” and enable it.

Once you want to track a Samsung phone from an iPhone, launch a web browser and visit the official Samsung Find My Mobile site. Sign in using your Samsung credentials and navigate to the Locate My Device section. Then, a map displaying your target device’s spot will show up.

5. Monitor Google Maps Timeline

Google offers more than one essential solution for locating devices. In addition to Find My Device, take advantage of Google Maps Timeline to catch up with the location history of your Android phone. Follow the simple steps below to utilize this feature:

• Step 1: Open Google Maps on your iPhone and log in to the Google account associated with your Android device.
• Step 2: Tap on your profile icon and select Timeline. A screen map will display your travel history, including date, time, stops, and routes.

However, the location history may not be updated in real-time. This solution only works out when history tracking is enabled on your Android phone. Like other solutions from Google, the accuracy depends on active GPS signals or an Internet connection.

6. Take Advantage Of Social Media Apps

A lesser-known fact is that messaging applications such as WhatsApp or Messenger now offer tracking capabilities. This allows their users to keep Android devices under control by using an iPhone.

Here is how you can activate this function within WhatsApp:

• Step 1: Open WhatsApp and head to the chat conversation with your target person.
• Step 2: Look for the Attach File icon and select the Share Location option.
• Step 3: Activate this feature and initiate tracking by clicking Start.

7. Search IMEI Number

When the above solutions fail to locate your misplaced phone, involving local authorities becomes necessary. Nevertheless, you can still provide vital details using The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) to retrieve your smartphones soon.

The IMEI serves as a distinctive identifier assigned to each phone. It encodes the technical specifications, warranty policies, etc. In instances of theft, legal authorities can leverage the IMEI to track down the perpetrator.

Do not worry if you cannot recall this important identifier. There are ways to check the IMEI:

• Method 1: Go to Settings on your Android device. Scroll down to the About Phone section and search for the IMEI.
• Method 2: Dial *#06# and press the call button to get your mobile equipment identity.

As a final recourse, attempt to trace your phone using the IMEI you have just obtained by following these steps:

• Step 1: Browse the Google Play Store for any application that facilitates IMEI tracking and download it.
• Step 2: Adhere to the provided installation guidelines.
• Step 3: Enter the IMEI into the app and initiate a search or follow any other instructions displayed.

8. Make Calls

While it may appear simplistic, making a phone call sometimes works unexpectedly well. If a kind stranger answers your incoming call, retrieving your misplaced phone becomes straightforward. On the other hand, if the call is declined, your phone is more likely to be stolen. In such circumstances, take immediate steps to protect your data.

Is It Legal To Track An Android From An iPhone?

The answer depends on the laws and regulations of your country. Nonetheless, there are certain scenarios where common sense deems tracking as permissible, such as:

You are the owner of the Android phone:

Monitoring your device using another one is normal for risk mitigation purposes. For example, checking the location history to find your lost phone does not violate anyone’s rights.

You want to protect your minor child from threats:

As a parent, you hold the right and responsibility to safeguard your child until they reach adulthood. Therefore, using tracking methods for this protective intent is generally considered lawful.

You are granted permission:

As long as you are permitted by the Android user, you are legally covered. It is crucial to establish trust with the individual you intend to monitor for certain solutions to be effective.

Conclusion

iPhone users can track Android phones in several ways. Despite some limitations, they aid in tracking lost or stolen devices or staying in touch with your friends and family. These technological options enhance your security in a risky digital landscape. Depending on your partial preferences, choose one method that best meets your requirements and keeps you safe.