Whether you're a parent keeping an eye on your kids or an employer wanting to keep track of work phones, monitoring apps can give you peace of mind without raising suspicions. The best part? These apps work in stealth mode, staying out of sight while you get all the info you need.
But here’s the deal: use them responsibly. These apps are powerful tools, but they’re meant for legal purposes, like monitoring your children or employees—with their consent, of course.
Let’s dive into the top monitoring apps that’ll keep you informed without the drama.
Let’s face it - kids live on their phones. mSpy keeps you in the loop without being a helicopter parent. Whether they’re texting, scrolling, or sneaking into apps they shouldn’t, you’ll know exactly what’s happening.
Key Features:
Monitor social media, messages, and call logs.
Real-time GPS tracking (because who has time for vague "check-ins"?).
Works on Android and iOS, no jailbreaking needed.
Why it works: mSpy blends in effortlessly, giving you access to everything from texts to browsing history. It’s like having a backstage pass.
Pros: Doesn’t need rooting or jailbreaking for most features, and the dashboard is easy enough for tech newbies.
Cons: Higher price tag compared to others.
Price: Starts at $29.99/month for the basic plan.
Verdict: If you want to keep tabs without making it obvious, mSpy is your go-to. Great for parents who want to stay informed without overstepping.
Ever wonder what’s being erased from their phone? With Spynger, deleted texts don’t stay hidden. This app is all about transparency, even when the user tries to cover their tracks.
Key Features:
Monitors deleted texts and emails.
Tracks WiFi networks and gives you control over access.
Sends alerts for custom keywords—no more missing the important stuff.
Why it works: Spynger digs up what’s been deleted and keeps you in the loop with instant notifications. Sneaky, but in the best way.
Pros: Affordable, packed with features, and intuitive to set up.
Cons: Limited social media tracking on iPhones unless they’re jailbroken.
Price: From $9.28/month.
Verdict: For those moments when you need to know everything, Spynger is your best bet. Perfect for catching what’s swept under the rug.
Need to find someone but don’t have access to their phone? Scannero is your secret weapon. It tracks any phone with just a number—no installations, no hassle.
Key Features:
Pinpoint location tracking using only a phone number.
Works anywhere, across all phone models.
Reverse phone lookup for those unknown numbers.
Why it works: You don’t need to install anything—just send a link and wait for them to click. It’s location tracking made ridiculously simple.
Pros: Works globally, no need to access the phone.
Cons: You’re relying on the person clicking the link, which isn’t always a sure thing.
Price: Starts at $49.80/month, with a $0.89 trial for 24 hours.
Verdict: If location is your main concern and you want a no-fuss way to track it, Scannero is a winner. Just make sure they actually click the link.
Sometimes monitoring isn’t enough—you want control. uMobix lets you block apps, restrict calls, and even activate live video or audio from the target device. This isn’t just tracking; it’s full-on command.
Key Features:
Block apps, restrict calls, and retrieve deleted data.
Live audio and video streaming from the target device.
Extensive social media and GPS tracking.
Why it works: uMobix gives you more than just a view—you get control. From what they can access to where they can go, you’ve got the power.
Pros: Powerful features for parents who want more than just basic tracking.
Cons: Advanced features are Android-only, so iPhone users might feel a little left out.
Price: Starts at $11.66/month.
Verdict: If you need full control of a device, uMobix is your best bet. It’s more than just a tracker—it’s the remote control you never knew you needed.
Read our full Umobix review here.
If you just need to find someone fast, Detectico has your back. With no software to install, it works across every phone model, from old-school flip phones to the latest iPhone. All you need is their number.
Key Features:
Send a text message with a tracking link.
Works on any phone that can receive texts, globally.
Offers reverse phone lookup and detects data leaks.
Why it works: It’s dead simple—send the link, wait for them to click, and boom, you’ve got their exact location. No apps, no installations, no fuss.
Pros: No need to touch the target phone, works across all networks.
Cons: The target has to click the link for it to work.
Price: Subscription-based with unlimited searches.
Verdict: For quick and easy location tracking, Detectico gets the job done. It’s like a GPS for people who can’t be bothered with apps.
For parents who need the full story—texts, photos, call logs, GPS, and social media—iKeyMonitor is a powerhouse. Yes, it’s got more going on for those who can handle a jailbreak, but the results are worth it.
Key Features:
Track calls, texts, GPS, and even multimedia files.
Works best on jailbroken iOS and rooted Android devices.
Records everything, including keystrokes and browser activity.
Why it works: For the parent who doesn’t mind diving into advanced features, iKeyMonitor is as comprehensive as it gets. You’ll have more insight than a detective.
Pros: Incredible depth of monitoring, including photos and videos.
Cons: Needs jailbreaking or rooting to get the most out of it.
Price: Free 3-day trial, then paid plans available.
Verdict: If you’re comfortable with a bit of tech tweaking, iKeyMonitor gives you all the info you need. Ideal for those who need complete oversight.
Read full Hoverwatch review here.
Running a family or a small business? Hoverwatch lets you track multiple devices at once, making it perfect for keeping tabs on everyone from your kids to your team. Call logs, social media, GPS—it’s all covered.
Key Features:
Monitors calls, social media, and GPS location.
Works across Android, Windows, and Mac devices.
Track up to three devices simultaneously.
Why it works: One app, multiple devices. Whether you’re running a household or a business, Hoverwatch makes it easy to stay connected.
Pros: Perfect for monitoring several devices at once, no extra hassle.
Cons: Not available for iOS, so Mac and Android users only.
Price: Starts at $24.95/month.
Verdict: If you need multi-device coverage, Hoverwatch gets the job done. Ideal for families or small businesses who need to stay in the loop without juggling multiple apps.
Choosing the right app depends on your specific needs:
Need full control? uMobix is your answer.
Want to track without touching their phone? Scannero or Detectico make it easy.
Managing multiple devices? Hoverwatch is your new best friend.
Want the full monitoring package? mSpy is perfect for parents who want a clear view of everything without the complexity of jailbreaking.
Whatever your situation, there’s an app on this list that’ll keep you informed. Just remember to use these tools responsibly.