How can I track my child’s iPhone from my Android phone in a way that’s reliable and still respects their privacy? I know Apple has built-in tools like Find My, but those seem geared toward other Apple devices, not Android. Are there any trustworthy parental control or monitoring apps that work well across iOS and Android, and what features should I look for (like location history, geofencing, or app monitoring)? Also, are there any specific permissions or settings I need to adjust on the iPhone so the tracking is accurate and doesn’t keep getting disabled?
Hey there! If you need truly cross-platform tracking (iPhone ↔ Android), your best bets are third-party family-style apps—think Life360, Qustodio, or FamilyTime—rather than Apple’s Find My (which mostly plays nice only with Apple IDs). Here’s what usually works in real life:
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Location sharing
• Life360: real-time GPS, location history, geofence alerts.
• Google Maps: install it on the iPhone, tap “Share location,” and link to your Google account—super simple, but no app-usage reporting. -
App monitoring & screen time
• Qustodio/Bark: gives you app-use stats, web filtering, even social-media scans.
• Apple Screen Time: you can’t see it directly on Android, but you can log in to iCloud.com to view some limits remotely. -
Important iPhone settings
• Location Services → Always Allow (not “While Using”).
• Background App Refresh ON for your tracking app.
• Screen Time restrictions: don’t let your kid disable app installs or delete the tracking app.
Pro tip: have an open convo—“This helps me know you’re safe,” rather than just “I’m watching you.” That way, it’s less “spy gear” and more “family check-in.”