Passwords for portals and apps, gigabytes of photos (and memories), or linked bank cards — a smartphone today is much more than just a phone. That's why losing one means more than just replacing a SIM card. So, how can you locate Android devices and iPhones with iOS for free? What should you do if you lose your phone or it gets stolen? We reveal proven methods.
Locating a lost phone will differ depending on the operating system of your phone. Both Apple with iOS and Android devices have dedicated solutions for this occasion. In Apple's case, their sophistication also varies between system versions.
How to Locate a Lost Android Phone?
1. Use the “Find My Device” app or website from Google Play.
This solution is for owners of Android phones logged into their Google account, which determines the device's location with an accuracy of approximately 150 meters. It also offers additional options:
- Play Sound — this is a real game-changer for those who often leave their phone on silent and can't find it later. When you press the button, the phone will ring for a duration you select.
- Secure Device — this option allows you to send a message to the phone's lock screen, for example, with a number the finder should call (see image 1). It also lets you set a password/PIN on the lost phone — a lifesaver for those who didn't have one set up previously.
- Erase Device — erases all data from the phone, at least from internal storage, so no one can access it. Unfortunately, after using this option, it will be impossible to locate the phone or recover data not saved in the cloud.
At any time, you can switch from “Find My Device” to Google Maps, which will help you reach the indicated location more easily.
When you want to use another smartphone to search for your Android phone, use the app, and if you're looking for your phone from your laptop — use the website.
Important! To use Google's “Find My Device”:
- the lost phone must be turned on (otherwise, it will show the last available location),
- the smartphone must have a Google account logged in,
- the phone must have WiFi/data transfer enabled,
- location on the smartphone should be enabled.
You can find more information about how “Find My Device” works in this video from Google.
2. Check your Google Timeline
Another way to find an Android phone is through the so-called “Timeline,” an option available in Google Maps for devices with location services enabled.
Simply log into your email, click on the dropdown Google Maps menu, select the “Timeline” option, and then choose the date and time you're interested in. You'll receive the device's recorded locations for the selected period.
How to Locate a Lost iPhone?
Apple owners have access to more or less advanced options depending on their operating system. If your smartphone has a system older than iOS 13, use the “Find My iPhone” app. It only works when the phone has location services, WiFi, or internet enabled. You can access the app from your computer via the website: https://www.icloud.com/find.
The options here are similar to those for Android:
- Play Sound — even in silent mode,
- Secure Device,
- Erase device.
You can find more information about “Find My iPhone” on Apple's website.
On iOS 13 and newer, use the Find My app. However, it must be configured beforehand to work. Find My is an improved version of “Find My iPhone.” The best news is that it works even with WiFi or network turned off. You can read more on Apple's official website.
You can also use other aids. Apple, by expanding its “Find My” ecosystem, has introduced an accessory that provides a private and secure way to easily locate your most important items. A suggested way to secure your phone is to attach a tracking device to it — Apple AirTag.
Stolen Phone: When All Methods Have Failed
Using the provided phone location methods will not give you a 100% guarantee of finding your lost item. However, it will increase your chances and allow you to secure your device against use by unauthorized individuals.
It's important not to be deceived by websites that promise to find your phone by IMEI or phone number during the rush of searching. Only certain law enforcement agencies, such as the police, are authorized for such actions. So, what can you do when you're sure the phone has been stolen and you won't be able to recover it yourself?
- Block your SIM card and order a duplicate
Contact your operator and block your phone. If you want to use your number on another device, remember to order a duplicate SIM card.
- Find your IMEI and report the case to the police
IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique serial number assigned to each mobile phone, which operators can use to block the device. You can find the IMEI identification number on the contract you signed with your operator or on the back of the device. You can also check it by typing the code *#06# in your phone.
It's worth having it in case of phone searches. Thanks to IMEI, you can block the phone regardless of the SIM card. IMEI blocking makes it practically useless in anyone's hands.
If you want to report a theft to the police, bring proof of purchase (receipt, invoice). Only after reporting will you receive a theft report confirmation, which should be given to your operator to apply the IMEI block.
- Add the phone to the stolen phone database
You can use the IMEI to add your smartphone to a database of stolen phones. Simply enter the number on a website that maintains such a list, for example, “kradzionytelefon.pl.” These databases are publicly accessible and allow, for example, pawn shop owners to check if a specific device is stolen.
- Secure yourself for the future
Several of the options provided here require action before the phone goes missing. Therefore, activate the appropriate apps in advance or invest in tracking devices that will assist in potential searches. If the value of the phone is high, it may be worth insuring it against theft. As the old saying goes — it's better to prevent than to cure.
