How Do You Track an Android from an iPhone? 5 Methods You Need to Know

Sometimes, keeping track of a loved one’s phone is important. Whether you’re trying to make sure your kid gets home safely, checking up on a friend, or hunting down your own lost Android device, knowing how to track an Android phone from your iPhone can be super useful. So, how do you track an android from an iphone?

Since Android and iPhone run on different systems, tracking an Android device from an iPhone isn’t always straightforward. Luckily, there are a bunch of ways you can do it, and we’re going to break down five of the easiest methods to help you track an Android phone from your iPhone.

How Do You Track an Android from an iPhone?

Tracking an Android phone from an iPhone might seem tricky since iPhones and Android devices run on different operating systems, but it’s actually pretty straightforward once you know what tools to use. There are several methods, ranging from simple location-sharing apps to full-fledged phone monitoring solutions. Depending on what you need—whether it’s just a quick location check or continuous tracking—there’s a method that will suit you.

Google’s Find My Device

If you’re simply trying to find an Android phone — say, you’ve lost it or it’s been stolen — Google’s Find My Device is a free and easy way to track the phone. All you need is the Android device’s Google account credentials, and you can track the phone’s location from your iPhone.

Here’s how you can do it:

1. Ensure Find My Device is enabled: On the Android phone, make sure that Find My Device is turned on. You can find this under Settings > Google > Security > Find My Device.
2. Go to Find My Device: On your iPhone, open Safari (or any web browser) and go to the Find My Device website.
3. Sign in: Log in using the Google account that is linked to the Android phone.
4. Track the Phone: Once you’re logged in, you’ll see a map with the phone’s real-time location (as long as the device is connected to the internet). You can also use features like making the phone ring, locking it, or erasing its data if needed.

Google Location Sharing

For more long-term tracking (like keeping an eye on your kid or family member), Google Location Sharing is another great tool. This method lets the Android user share their location with you via Google Maps in real-time. You can track them as long as they keep sharing their location with you.

Here’s how you do it:

1. Set Up Location Sharing on the Android Phone: On the Android phone, open Google Maps, tap the profile icon in the top right corner, and go to Location Sharing. From there, they can select to share their location with you.
2. Track the Location: On your iPhone, open Google Maps and tap on the profile icon, then go to Location Sharing. You’ll be able to see the person’s live location on a map.

Using a Phone Monitoring App like Msafely

If you're looking for a more powerful and comprehensive way to track an Android phone from an iPhone, a phone monitoring app like Msafely is a great choice. This app is designed to give you full access to the Android phone’s location, messages, call logs, app usage, and much more. It’s perfect if you want to keep track of a phone over an extended period of time and need detailed insights into its activity.

Here’s how you can use it:

1. Add the Target Device to Msafely: First, you'll need to add the Android device to your Msafely account. This process is quick and easy, and once the device is added, you're ready to start tracking.
2. Log Into Your Account: After adding the device, log into your Msafely account through a web browser on your iPhone. This will take you to your personal dashboard, where all the tracking data is displayed.
3. Track the Phone: From the dashboard, you can view the real-time location of the Android device, check its location history, monitor incoming and outgoing calls and messages, see which apps are being used, and even track web browsing activity.

WhatsApp Location Sharing

If you’re looking for a casual, short-term way to track an Android phone, you can use WhatsApp’s built-in location-sharing feature. This method is super simple but does require the Android user to agree to share their location with you.

Here’s how to track using WhatsApp:

1. Open WhatsApp on the Android Phone: The person you want to track opens WhatsApp and opens a chat with you (or a group chat).
2. Share Live Location: They tap on the attachment icon (the paperclip) in the chat, select Location, and then choose Share Live Location.
3. Track the Location: Once they send their live location, you’ll be able to see it in the chat, and you can track their real-time movement right in WhatsApp.

IMEI Tracking (For Lost or Stolen Phones)

If the Android phone is lost or stolen, you can track it using its IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number. The IMEI is a unique identifier for every phone, and it’s used by carriers and law enforcement to track lost or stolen devices.

Here’s how you can do it:

1. Find the IMEI Number: You can get the IMEI number by dialing *#06# on the Android phone or by going to Settings > About Phone > Status.
2. Contact Your Carrier or Authorities: Once you have the IMEI number, contact your mobile carrier or local law enforcement. They can help you track the device, block it, or even help you recover it if it’s been stolen.

Which is the Best Way to Track an Android Phone from an iPhone?

Tracking an Android phone from an iPhone can be done in several ways, each suited for different needs. Whether you need real-time location tracking, ongoing monitoring, or more advanced features, there are various tools at your disposal. The best method for you will depend on the level of monitoring you require, how much access you have to the target device, and whether you want to track just the location or more detailed activities like calls, messages, or app usage.

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular methods to track an Android phone from an iPhone:

Comparison Table: Tracking Methods for Android from iPhone

Is it legal to track an Android from an iPhone?

Well, it depends. In some situations, tracking is perfectly legal, while in others, it can cross legal boundaries. If you have the person’s consent or you're tracking a device you own (like your child’s phone), you're generally in the clear. But if you're tracking someone else's phone without their knowledge or permission, that can lead to serious legal issues related to privacy violations.

Tips for Legal Tracking:

Get Consent: Always make sure you have the person’s consent before tracking their phone, especially if they're an adult. Tracking a device without consent can violate privacy laws.

Track Your Own Devices: You have full rights to track your own devices, whether it’s your phone or your child’s phone (if they’re underage).

Parental Monitoring: Parents can legally track their children’s phones for safety reasons. Just be transparent and explain the reasons behind it, especially as kids get older.

Use Trusted Apps: Stick to reputable tracking apps that respect privacy and are designed for legal monitoring purposes, like parental control apps.

Know Your Local Laws: Laws vary depending on where you live, so always check the legal guidelines in your region before tracking anyone's phone.

Final Thoughts

So, how do you track an Android from an iPhone? Whether you're looking to locate a lost device, monitor a loved one’s safety, or keep an eye on kids, there are several methods available to suit different needs. From using Google’s Find My Device for basic location tracking to more comprehensive solutions like Msafely for ongoing monitoring, the options are versatile. Just remember to use these tools responsibly. Get consent, respect privacy, and always check your local laws to ensure you're tracking legally.