Using GPS to track your phone

If I own a cellphone that has a GPS navigation system on it – can I use this to find the phone if it gets lost? If I gave my number to my cellphone provider, would they be able to tell me where my phone is? I have a terrible habit of losing phones and am wondering if my next one should include GPS.

Most top models of smartphones can now be tracked down through GPS if they are lost or stolen. So, if you constantly lose phones, it’s probably worth the investment. You just have to be careful when buying, because, while some of the phones come automatically with GPS location finders, with others you need to register online before that application comes into play.

There are also some mid-range phones that, although they have a GPS navigation function, can’t be tracked down by your provider. So, while your question may seem simple, the answer is slightly complicated. Unfortunately, if the phone happens to be switched off when it’s lost, then the location finder won’t work. Neither will it work once the phone’s batteries run out, which can be as soon as a day or two.

So, if you do have a phone that can be tracked down, don’t spend too much time looking for it before you contact your provider. Should a thief find your phone and put their SIM card into it with the intention of using it, your phone will still show up on its location finder under your number.

On a more general note, remember – if you lose your phone, contact your provider so that it can be disabled. This will prevent other people from dishonestly using it, even with their own SIM card.