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Feeling uneasy about what’s happening on your partner’s Android device, or just trying to keep a close eye on your kids? The best Android spy apps give you discreet access to crucial information, letting you monitor their calls, texts, social media interactions, and even their location.
I personally know that these apps can give you valuable insights that can ultimately mean peace of mind. To help you find the best solution, I’ve tested and reviewed the best spying app for Android options, considering factors like price, features, reliability, and overall performance. This way, you can make an informed choice tailored to your specific needs.
The Best Spy Apps for Android Tested by Our Experts
mSpy - Best Android Spy App for Detailed Usage Reports
These best spy apps for Android will give you a secure and easy way to monitor your loved one’s activity and app usage. My reviews will give you all the info you need to help you find the one that’s right for you.
1. mSpy — The Best Android Spy App That Gives You Detailed Reports
Starting Price
$11.67/month
No Of Devices
1
Free Trial/Demo
Demo
Compatibility
Android OS 5 or higher
Money-Back Guarantee
14-day refund window
Why We Picked It
In my testing, I personally felt that mSpy really lives up to its popularity, and I love its intuitive dashboardthat includes detailed usage reports that are easy to understand so I know exactly what my kid is doing and when. It also offers one of the most comprehensive suite of monitoring features, from social media monitoring to location tracking.
Features
The mSpy Android tracking app really stood out for me because of its huge list of features that are really great value compared to other spy apps, and its detailed app reports are just one of its highlights.
It has a photo and video viewer tool that gives you access to the photo gallery of any Android device. The tool includes date and time stamps to help you understand all media details more thoroughly. It also offers a keylogger and an excellent screen recorder, so you’ll be able to see everything the other person sees and types on their phone.
You can access conversations on social media and messaging apps like Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Snapchat, and Google Chat (formerly Google Talk) — the default Google Workspace chat app. In addition, it has App Blocker and Website Blocker tools that let you block apps, inappropriate websites, or offensive pages.
During my testing, I also liked the real-time GPS tracking and geofencingfeatures that let me see the other person’s route history, where they’re going, set location boundaries, and get notified when they move out of those boundaries at any time. Another really important thing for me was that mSpy operates in stealth mode, so everything I track on the other person’s phone is hidden.
One thing that worried me when I first started out was that I needed to root the target Android device I was monitoring so I could access all of mSpy’s features. This could potentially make the installation process somewhat long and complicated if you aren’t already familiar with it.
But my worries were quickly assuaged as I reached out to mSpy’s excellent customer service for help, and it really wasn’t difficult at all. Needing to root or jailbreak the target phone is also not uncommon when using any spy app. But if you don’t want to go through the hassle, I suggest checking out SpyBubble Pro.
mSpy Pricing Plans
mSpy Plans
mSpy Pricing
1 Month
$48.99/month
3 Months
$28/month
12 Months
$11.67/month
I like that mSpy makes their pricing really easy to understand. They have just one plan type, with larger discounts available with longer subscriptions. There’s no free trial, but you should check out the demo. In my testing, I found it to be really helpful and accurately show everything mSpy is capable of and how well the actual dashboard works.
If you experience any functional problems that customer service can’t rectify within 14 days of subscribing, you can request a full refund. That said, one thing I noticed is that this doesn’t guarantee an instant refund. You’ll need to give the company time to evaluate and confirm the legitimacy of your request before they give you any money back.
Who It's Best For
Because mSpy has so many features, it suits a wide range of people. I found it to be great for parents who want to monitor their children’s online activities and ensure their digital safety. It’s also great for employers and spouses looking to establish integrity and transparency in their workplace or interpersonal relationships.
Pros
Detailed usage reports to easily find the information you need
Not everyone is a tech wiz, which is why uMobix stood out for me. It’s one of the top Android monitoring apps on my list because of its user-friendly interface. I found it easy to set up and navigate, with everything laid out in easy-to-find tabs and sections, making it a great choice for those without technical expertise.
Features
uMobix’s easy-to-use interface made it quick and simple for me to find everything I was looking for on its handy dashboard. I loved that you can control the other Android phone remotely and access its photo gallery, restrict some of the phone’s functions, block inappropriate websites and apps, delete apps, and more, making it great for parents who want full oversight of their kid’s phone. You can also use the track GPS location feature to locate them on the map at any time, which is handy for partners who may be straying, too.
uMobix allows you to monitor various social media apps, including WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Skype. Its Call tracker feature includes essential information about incoming and outgoing calls, providing details like timestamps and contact info. It also has one of the best Android keyloggers that records and tracks all keyboard activity in web browsers, notepads, or messaging apps.
I liked that uMobix updates its dashboard data every five minutes, but you can increase the duration in the settings if you don’t need active monitoring. I found that compared to mSpy, uMobix’s installation process is also easier since you don’t need to root the phone. It took me around 10 minutes to install uMobix and hide it on the other phone, so make sure you are able to physically access the device for at least that long.
uMobix Pricing Plans
uMobix pricing plan is as follows:
Duration
uMobix Pricing
1 Month
$49.99/month
3 Months
$29.99/month
12 Months (+ 12 extra months for free)
$12.49/month
While uMobix doesn’t have a free trial, I liked that you can test it out using the demo that shows you how the dashboard works. uMobix also offers a 14-day refund policy if you experience any technical issue the support can’t fix after purchase, but it’s not a money-back guarantee.
Who It's Best For
uMobix is a great option for new spy app users who aren’t particularly tech-savvy, and it offers tiered pricing that makes it easy to get started. It’s good for parents who want to ensure their children’s safety and managers who need to monitor their employees’ activities.
Pros
Intuitive interface
Gives accurate location details of the target device
3. Spynger — Android Tracker App to Catch Cheating Spouses
Starting Price
Starting from $9.28/month
No Of Devices
1
Free Trial/Demo
❌
Compatibility
Android OS 4 or higher
Money-Back Guarantee
30-day refund window
Why We Picked It
When you suspect your partner of cheating, you need a spy app that will confirm or refute those suspicions without any doubts. I picked Spynger because it’s specifically designed to track a cheater and gives you concrete evidence to confirm or dispel any suspicions you may have about your partner. It offers detailed digital activity tracking, including call logs, text messages, social media monitoring, and GPS location tracking.
Features
I like Spynger because it cuts right to the chase and is clear about what it does—it catches cheaters. It gives you access to your partner’s social media apps and lets you read all their messages on their default Android messaging app and social and dating apps, including Instagram, Tinder, Viber, Snapchat, Discord, Facebook, and WhatsApp.
It also has an Android keylogger, letting you capture and record every word your partner types on their phone. There’s also a GPS location tracker that helps you know their whereabouts, check past locations, and track current routes. You can also set geofences to receive notifications every time they enter or leave specific areas.
Spynger includes an app and website blocker feature that lets you restrict access to specific apps and websites. While this will admittedly let your partner know that their phone is being monitored, it’s a good way to stop things in their tracks if you find out they are using dating apps like Tinder.
One downside I didn’t like is that Spynger doesn’t offer a free trial or demo version, so you can’t test-run it before committing. If this doesn’t sit well with you, you can consider its counterparts, like uMobix or Eyezy, which offer a demo. That said, Spynger is pretty affordable, and I found it to be really effective, making it a worthwhile investment for a low annual price.
Spynger Pricing Plans
Here’s a breakdown of Spynger’s pricing:
Duration
Spynger Pricing
1 Month
$44.56/month
3 Months
$25.99/month
12 Months
$9.28/month
As I mentioned, Spynger has no free trial, but it does offer a 30-day refund policy. So, if you experience any technical issues with the provided services that the support team cannot resolve within 30 days of your purchase, you can request a refund.
Who It's Best For
Spynger is best for couples looking to alleviate concerns, doubts, and suspicions in their relationship. It does what it says it will do, so if you’re looking for hard evidence or just want to put your mind at ease when it comes to your partner, it’s a great pick.
4. Scannero — Best Spy App for Identifying Callers
Starting Price
Starting from $0.89/day
No. of Devices
1
Free Trial/Demo
❌
Compatibility
All Android versions
Money-back Guarantee
14-day refund window
Why We Picked It
Scannero stood out for me because it’s a basic and easy-to-use app that tracks your target person using just their phone number with no app installation required. It also has a unique Reverse Phone Number Lookup feature that gives you info on the person calling the device you are monitoring.
Features
When I first started using Scannero, I thought it looked pretty basic, but it actually does a lot, considering you don’t install it, and it just works by phone number. First on Scannero’s list of top features for Androids is its mobile phone number tracker, which lets you locate your spouse, child, friend, or employee using just their phone number. All you have to do is input the number into the “Enter Phone Number” field on your web dashboard, and you will get their precise location after they open the text message link that Scannero sends.
Scannero also includes a Reverse Phone Number Lookup feature that lets you identify who is calling or texting from unknown numbers. You can access this feature through the web app as long as you have a device with an internet connection.
I also liked the app’s location-by-linkfeature, which lets you pinpoint an individual’s location with just a Uniform Resource Locator (URL). To use it, you create an account, generate a link, and share it with the other person via Messenger, SMS, or email. When they click the link, their exact location will be displayed on your account dashboard.
Because Scannero is somewhat basic compared to other spy apps, you’ll want to make sure it has all the features you need. I find that it excels in accurate location tracking, so if that’s all you need, it’s great. But it lacks the broader spying capabilities and features of competitors like mSpy, uMobix, and Eyezy.
Scannero Pricing Plans
Here’s a breakdown of Scannero’s plans and their prices:
Duration
Scannero Pricing
1-Day Trial
$0.89
1 Month
$49.80
1-Day Trial Plan – This plan allows you to test all the platform features, including location tracking by link, reverse number lookup, mobile phone tracker, and geofencing, for one day before committing.
Monthly Plan – The monthly plan is the only long-term option available on the platform. After paying the trial fee and testing the platform for one day, Scannero will automatically upgrade you to a one-month premium subscription. Although the cost is comparable to other monitoring apps, it may not be ideal for long-term tracking beyond one month.
The good thing about Scannero is that you can test the waters before jumping in with its one-day trial for just $0.89. If it doesn’t work for you or you need more features, you can cancel your subscription before the trial period ends so you won’t be billed for the next month.
Who It's Best For
Scannero is great if you want to quickly find someone’s location, whether for business or personal reasons. Beyond location tracking, it also provides additional information about whoever is contacting the person you are monitoring, such as their real name and associated social profiles.
So, if you are looking to pinpoint someone’s location without accessing their Android device, this is a great option.
Pros
You don’t need physical access to the other device
Excellent reverse phone number lookup feature
Detailed location tracking information
Cons
No core spying features like social media monitoring
5. SpyBubble Pro — Best Spy for Android to Find Deleted Content
Starting Price
$12.49/month
No. of Devices
1
Free Trial/Demo
❌
Compatibility
Android OS 4 and higher
Money-back Guarantee
14-day refund window
Why We Picked It
Let’s speak frankly – the person you are monitoring might be on to you and might be deleting all their messages after they send them. This is why I like SpyBubble Pro. It takes continuous screenshots of the phone you are monitoring to provide insight into the other person’s online activities, even if they delete or alter their content.
Features
I know from experience that people who cheat sometimes delete their DMs after they send them so they can’t be seen. SpyBubble Pro is the best option for seeing deleted, hidden, or altered content on an Android device. This includes seeing deleted calls and messages, hidden contacts and apps, and altered contact names. You can also monitor apps like Reddit, Discord, and even YouTube and get an alert if they change SIM cards.
In addition, SpyBubble’s keylogger tool lets you see everything they type on their phone, including passwords, even if they delete it afterward. You can also use the website blocker feature to remotely restrict them from visiting inappropriate sites.
SpyBubble Pro also has real-time location tracker features to help you see where the other person is. Most importantly, you don’t have to root the target Android device to enjoy its features, and I found it very easy to install and set up.
SpyBubble Pro Pricing Plans
Spybubble Pro has a duration-based subscription plan structure. Here’s what you need to know:
Duration
SpyBubble Pro Pricing
1 Month
$49.99/month
3 Months
$29.99/month
12 Months
$12.49/month
SpyBubble Pro doesn’t have a demo, but the dashboard is quite similar to uMobix. You’re also eligible for a full refund up to 14 days after purchase, as long as your reasons align with its Refund Policy.
Who It's Best For
SpyBubble Pro is very useful for suspicious spouses and parents, especially because it allows them to access deleted messages, pics, and other shared files.
Pros
Provides real-time screenshots of online and phone activities
6. Phonsee — Best Social Media Spy App for Android
Starting Price
$8.85/month
No. of Devices
1
Free Trial/Demo
Demo
Compatibility
Android OS 4 and higher
Money-back Guarantee
14-day refund window
Why We Picked It
Whether you want to monitor your kids or partner, sometimes you just need a good app that monitors everything on their social media apps. Phonsee is one of the most advanced social media monitoring apps on the market, offering excellent value for its price.
Features
Phonsee is one of my top picks for Android because it can monitor all interactions on social media and dating apps like Instagram, WhatsApp, Tinder, and more, although full functionality requires rooting the Android device. You can also use Phonsee to block suspicious apps and websites to protect your child from online threats, even during late-night browsing.
I also like Phonsee’s advanced GPS tracking and geofencing feature, which lets you know the whereabouts of your child, spouse, or employee while you remain in stealth mode. You can view their location history, set safe boundaries, be notified when they cross them, and check the distance and time of arrival at specific locations, all without being detected
Beyond Android location tracking, Phonsee lets you read text messages, view call history, and see photos and videos on the device with timestamps and contact details. You can also take screenshots and record keystrokes, including login details and search queries typed on the keypad.
Phonsee Pricing Plans
Phonsee has one easy-to-understand plan that offers great value for money when you subscribe for one year. Let’s explore the pricing below:
Duration
Phonsee Pricing
1 Month
$42.51/month
3 Months
$24.79/month
12 Months
$8.85/month
Phonsee only has a demo version, but it isn’t great since it’s only a series of screenshots. However, once I started using the app, I found that the actual dashboard is very similar, so they aren’t hiding anything. There’s also a 14-day refund policy if you’re not satisfied, but your refund request is subject to their terms of use.
Who It's Best For
Phonsee is a great pick for couples, parents, and businesses wanting to track the social media activities of their child, partner, or employee on a budget.
Pros
Budget-friendly
Easy to install, setup, and navigate
Works in stealth mode
Can monitor more social media apps than competitors
Cons
Lacks call recording and keyword alert features
Requires rooting to access the social media monitoring feature
7. Eyezy — Best AI-driven Android Spy App for Keyword Alerts
Starting Price
$7.99/month
No. of Devices
1
Free Trial/Demo
Demo
Compatibility
Android 4 and higher
Money-back Guarantee
14-day refund window
Why We Picked It
Eyezy distinguishes itself from other Android monitoring apps because of its great balance between price and cutting-edge features. I was particularly impressed with its AI-powered tracking and alert system, alongside its comprehensive phone monitoring capabilities.
Features
Eyzy caught my attention right away when I was researching Android spy apps because it uses AI to make its features more accurate and insightful. This means that it leverages advanced algorithms to monitor and analyze user behavior in real-time behind the scenes, so you don’t need to monitor the app every minute of the day.
These tools can identify patterns or anything that stands out as odd, giving you detailed insight into activities like location tracking, call logs, text messages, and app usage in handy reports you can view when you have time.
Eyezy’s built-in AI features also enhance its accuracy and efficiency in data collection and reporting, ensuring precise information about the tracked device.
Another feature I found super useful is Eyezy’s phone analyzer tool. It shows you all call details on the other person’s Android phone, including their incoming and outgoing calls and call durations. It also shows you their web browser history, so you’ll see everything they search for, and you can block harmful websites or pages.
The app also tracks the real-time location and history of your child or partner’s movements, giving you screenshots of their online activities. Eyezy even has a keylogger that captures keystrokes on the keypad, including passwords and search queries.
With the social spotlight feature, you can monitor over 10 messaging and social media apps on the Android device, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. You can see all direct messages, even deleted ones, including sender/recipient info and timestamps.
Eyezy has a couple of Android installation options available, depending on the type of monitoring you need. It’s one of the handful of spy apps that come with a mobile app you can download from the Google Play Store. The official app lets you see calls and text messages and track their location, which might be more than enough for most.
If you want more robust monitoring features, you’ll need to download the app from the Eyezy website and go through the simple but slightly time-consuming installation process. The good news is that you don’t have to worry about rooting the other device, and the entire setup took me about 15 minutes.
Eyezy Pricing Plans
Here’s a breakdown of Eyezy’s pricing plans:
Duration
Eyezy Pricing
1 Month
$38.39/month
3 Months
$22.39/month
12 Months
$7.99/month
Monthly plan – This plan is cost-effective if you have short-term spy needs. Otherwise, the other options might be better.
Quarterly plan – Eyezy’s most popular pricing plan, suitable for a relatively long monitoring period.
Annual plan – This is Eyeze’s best value option, as you can enjoy all its services for a longer time at a cheaper price when billed monthly.
All three subscription plans offer the same features, including social spotlight and location tracking. While Eyezy, unfortunately, doesn’t have a free version, you can see how it works before committing by checking out its demo.
If you’re still unsure, you can always subscribe for one month to see if you like the app and then upgrade to an annual subscription, which will give you substantial savings. Additionally, it comes with a 14-day refund policy.
Who It's Best For
Eyezy is ideal for parents, couples, and employers who need effective monitoring without being constantly tied to their control panel. With its advanced AI-driven features, I love how Eyezy handles the surveillance process for you, automatically analyzing and reporting key activities.
This means you can stay informed about your child’s online behavior, your partner’s phone use, or your employees’ activities with minimal effort on your part.
Pros
AI-integrated keyword features for passive monitoring
Invisible shield to keep you anonymous
Cheaper than many competitors
Good for monitoring browser history
Has an official mobile app with limited monitoring features
8. ClevGuard — Best for Monitoring Multiple Android Devices
Starting Price
$4.99/month
No. of Devices
Up to 3 devices on the individual plan
Up to 20 devices on the family plan
Free Trial/Demo
Demo
Compatibility
Android 7.0 to 13
Money-back Guarantee
30-day money-back guarantee
Why We Picked It
If you have more than one kid, I know how hard it can be to keep track of what they are all doing on their devices. ClevGuard is one of the few options on my list that lets you monitor multiple Android phones or tablets, up to 20, with a single subscription. It’s a great option for large households or for employers to monitor company devices.
Features
You already know that as your kids get older, they are busier outside the home with their friends and after-school activities. ClevGuard has all the tools you need to monitor your kids’ devices, no matter how many they have or where they are.
It comes with a reliable GPS location tracker so you can see where they are and their location history, set up zones, and get alerts when they enter or leave those zones, even if you have two or more children. You can also remotely control the device’s camera and microphone to capture screenshots and record surroundings.
With the social media monitoring tool, you can monitor their social media activities on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat. You can also see their messages, check friends and followers, and look at shared media files. You can even see what videos they are watching on YouTube and TikTok, along with app usage information, to make sure your kids aren’t spending too much time on these apps.
ClevGuard also tracks Android browser history, letting you see users’ internet activity, including visited websites and bookmarks. Additionally, ClevGuard has an Android keylogger that records all keystrokes, like passwords and search queries.
I really like that ClevGuard works in stealth mode to avoid detection, and you don’t have to root the target Android phone. You can also see detailed call logs and SMS and MMS messages.
Despite its comparatively cheap pricing plans, I found that ClevGuard offers advanced features like call recording and geofencing that pricier apps like Phonsee and SpyBubble Pro lack.
ClevGuard Pricing Plans
ClevGuard has two pricing plans with varying durations and features. Let’s take a look:
Duration
KidsGuard Pricing
KidsGuard Pro Pricing
1 Month
$9.99/month
$49.99/month
3 Months
❌
$25.33/month
12 Months
$4.99/month
$11.67month
KidsGuard Plan – This plan allows you to block websites and apps, track the device’s location, view browsing history, and set up geofencing on a single Android phone.
KidsGuard Pro Individual Plan – This plan offers more advanced features like keylogging, GPS and WiFi location tracking, social media monitoring, and call recording. For an additional cost, you can monitor up to three devices and pay extra for specific app monitoring features, like the WhatsApp tracker.
ClevGuard has a demo feature, so you can test its key functions before subscribing. You can also request a refund within 30 days of purchase.
Who It's Best For
ClevGuard is ideal for parents, couples, and employers looking for an affordable app with advanced features to monitor their child, partner, colleague, or employee.
Pros
Affordable
You can monitor up to 20 devices
User-friendly interface great for non-tech-savvy users
No rooting required
Cons
WhatsApp and Facebook tracking are an additional cost
9. GEOfinder — Precise Android Location Tracking Using Just a Phone Number
Starting Price
$1/day (paid trial)
No. of Devices
Unlimited
Free Trial/Demo
❌
Compatibility
All Android versions
Money-back Guarantee
14-day refund window
Why We Picked It
Like Scannero, GEOfinder is an Android spy web app particularly designed for location tracking with just a phone number. But what set it apart for me is how precise it’s tracking is in comparison. While Scannero focuses on tracking historical location data and providing updates at intervals rather than continuous, real-time tracking, GEOfinder excels in delivering real-time location updates and advanced features such as geofencing.
Features
GEOfinder offers more precise and reliable location-tracking capabilities than Scannero for tracking an Android device. It uses advanced triangulation methods and integration with multiple data sources to provide accurate real-time location information. Additionally, GEOfinder has a slightly more user-friendly interface, ensuring a smoother user experience.
GEOfinder uses Google Maps to find someone’s location with their phone number, which is perfect for knowing where your spouse or child is when you can’t see them. It also has a Wi-Fi tracker that shows the names and locations of networks the Android phone connects to.
The standout feature of this app is its ability to track someone’s location via SMS. You can send a text with a link to the other person’s Android phone, and when they click it, you’ll get their accurate location. This service can be used as often as you want to track any device, but it’s not discreet, as they’ll get the text message and need to interact with it to enable tracking.
Another feature that sets it apart from Scannero is a VPN checker. The other person may be using a VPN to spoof their location, but GEOfinder will let you know if that’s the case.
GEOfinder Pricing Plans
GEOfinder has two short-term subscription rates; they are:
Duration
GEOfinder Pricing
1-Day Trial
$1
1 Month
$49.99
GEOfinder’s monthly subscription is short-term and fixed. Nonetheless, it grants unlimited access to all its features across any Android device. These include location tracking via phone number, Wi-Fi tracking, a VPN checker, and an SMS tracker.
That said, when comparing it to Scannero, you probably notice that it’s even pricier since it just has a monthly rate. I can attest from my experience that this is due to its robust triangulation features, which work to give you even more precise location tracking than what Scannero offers, plus its other bonus features.
Like Scannero, GEOfinder offers a great deal for a one-day trial, so you can see how it works before you commit to this steeper monthly rate. I recommend going with this first, as I did, and giving it a try since there’s little risk. It also has a 14-day refund window from the time of purchase.
Who It's Best For
GEOfinder is best for anyone who needs super precise location tracking but doesn’t have physical access to the target phone. If you need an app with more advanced spying features, consider trying Spynger or uMobix.
Pros
Works without access to or rooting the target phone
10. xMobi — Best Android Spy App for Real-time Monitoring
Starting Price
$12.49/month
No. of Devices
1
Free Trial/Demo
Demo
Compatibility
Android 4 and higher
Money-back Guarantee
14-day refund window
Why We Picked It
When doing my research, I noticed that xMobi doesn’t offer the most features of any Android spy app, but I still liked it for its price. It gives you real-time updates for essentials like calls, text messages, and locations. Plus, it has an easy installation process, and it only took me around five minutes to get the app up and running.
Features
xMobi made a good impression on me during my testing because it gives you real-time updates of all activities on the Android device every five minutes. You can see all incoming and outgoing calls on the Android device and get timestamps, duration, and caller information. You can also see all sent, received, or deleted SMS, timestamps, and contact information.
I liked this because it means I don’t have to monitor my target advice nonstop—xMobi essentially does the work for you in the background, and since updates are so frequent, I can be sure I won’t miss anything.
In addition, xMobi has a GPS location tracker that allows you to see the monitored device’s location and get their route history, so you won’t only see where they are but where they’ve been. You can also view the Android device’s photos, videos, and contact information.
XMobi also offers good social media monitoring features on Android, including the ability to track messages and activity on WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook Messenger, Zoom, X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and more. It’s also one of the few apps to have a spy app detector to let you know if anybody else is also monitoring the other person.
xMobi Pricing Plans
Like most other spy apps, xMobi has three pricing plans with varying durations. Check the details below:
Duration
xMobi Pricing
1 Month
$49.99/month
3 Months
$29.99/month
12 Months
$12.49/month
All three pricing plans offer the same features, so you can be confident that you will access all of xMobi’s spying tools when you opt for any plan.
If you purchase a plan and begin having technical issues that the customer support team cannot fix, you may be eligible for a full refund in accordance with xMobi’s refund policy.
Who It's Best For
xMobi is great for parents, guardians, and individuals who want to track all activities on a specific Android device but don’t have the time to monitor the device every second of the day. Its real-time updates will ensure you’ll see everything you need to without missing a thing.
Pros
Easy to install and use
Advanced GPS location tracker
Cons
Only one device per subscription
Requires rooting to access all features on Android
Important Note: Spy software is not legal to use without the device owner’s permission in many countries and states. When we test spy software, we do so only with the explicit consent of the device owner and in compliance with local laws and regulations.
To provide our readers with accurate and well-informed recommendations, we test the most popular spy applications on the market to find the best options for you. Our methodology consists of the following criteria:
General Features: We evaluate the comprehensive feature set of each spy app, including but not limited to features such as App Management, Time Management, Call Monitoring, Device Control and GPS Tracking.
Ease of Use: We gauge the user-friendliness of each app, considering factors such as installation process complexity, the necessity of jailbreaking (for iOS) or rooting (for Android) the target device, and more.
Device Support and Compatibility: We thoroughly examine the compatibility of each spyware app with different devices and operating systems, including iOS and Android. We also assess whether the app offers a unified dashboard accessible from both desktop and mobile devices.
Customer Support: We test the responsiveness and effectiveness of customer support provided by each app developer. We evaluate the availability of support channels, such as live chat, email, or phone support, as well as the satisfaction ratings of customer assistance.
Price and Value for Money: We assess each spyware app’s pricing structure in relation to its features and functionalities, aiming to determine its overall value proposition. We analyze whether the app offers different subscription tiers, flexible payment options, and discounts for long-term commitments. Additionally, we check whether the app provides free trials or demos for users to test its capabilities before making a purchase.
Privacy and Security: We prioritize the privacy and security of user data in our evaluation. We scrutinize the app’s data encryption measures, adherence to privacy regulations, and commitment to regular security updates to safeguard user information from unauthorized access or breaches.
What are Android Spy Apps?
These phone spy apps allow you to monitor and track Android devices. They’ll enable you to monitor chat, app, and browser history, what’s on screen, and the device’s location, as well as check how the device is being used.
Some will even allow you to block apps, access the microphone and camera, and turn the device off. They often work in the background to not impede the device’s use.
For spouses and parents, this is great for guaranteeing that family members are safe and secure and that they aren’t in harm’s way. They’re also highly effective for employers monitoring their personnel and hardware.
Do I Need an Android Spy App?
Whether you need a spy phone app depends on your specific circumstances and reasons for wanting to track a mobile phone. With that said, it’s important to use them only with the consent of the person being tracked. Some common use cases include:
Access social mediaTrack phone calls and textsRecord text input with a keyloggerUse GPS to locate devicesAndroid device control
A good Android tracker app will let you access social apps and follow chats and activities. Compatibility will vary, but the best will offer tools for TikTok, Instagram, Facebook Messenger, Whatsapp, and others, as well as dating app profiles.
A powerful phone spy app for Android typically enables you to read call logs and track phone numbers, times, and call durations. Advanced apps also let you listen in on calls and make recordings.
At a more basic level, Android spy tools will often give you access to all the text messages sent and received on the device and potentially even give you access to drafts.
A keylogger can record all text input on a tracked device for more comprehensive surveillance. This lets you see anything the user has entered on the virtual keyboard, including browser use, login details, and messages.
This is one of the most far-reaching utilities available, as it can capture information entered into every Android phone app. For more information, check out our guide to the best keylogger software.
The best Android monitoring app will enable you to precisely locate the Android device using GPS.
This means you can know exactly where the device is and can ensure the safety of your loved one. Many apps also include functionality to let you know if individuals enter or leave specific areas.
The most powerful features give you complete control over the device. Some enable you to block and delete apps, restart the device, and turn it off.
In addition, a hidden Android phone spy app may have advanced features like the ability to access a device’s camera and microphone so you can see and hear everything around it. This is perfect for spying on Android and can help you ensure the tracked individual isn’t in danger.
How Do Android Monitoring Apps Work?
An Android phone spy app installs a software program on the target device, which runs in the background and collects information from it.
The collected data is then sent to a remote server, where it can be accessed by the person who installed the spy app.
The information collected by the Android phone spy app can include text messages, call logs, GPS location, emails, and social media activity. Some also let you listen in on phone calls, for example.
These apps run in the background and are hidden from the user. Simply log in on your own device, and all the targets’ data will sync to your phone spy app dashboard every few minutes.
Can You Spy on an Android Device Without Installing an App?
Whether you’re looking at mSpy or a free Android spy app, the installation process generally requires physical access to the target device.
Once the app is installed, you can monitor the device remotely without physical access. While iPhone spy apps allow for remote installation, you may need the device to perform the Two-Factor Authentication process.
If you can’t physically access the target phone, there are a few options. Trackers like GEOfinder and Scannero are exceptions. They don’t require installation; they just require a phone number, but they only offer mobile GPS location tracking.
What Devices Does Android Spy Software Work On?
The leading spy app vendors focus on tracking Android devices and iPhones. This means you can track Android phones, tablets, and iOS devices.
Many leading apps can also track PCs and Macs, meaning you can access every part of the digital ecosystem and track activity across devices.
Free Android Spying Apps – Can You Spy on Mobile for Free?
Overall, paid solutions are far more reliable and provide better features than free spy apps. Free Android spying apps are renowned for selling user data and infecting target devices with malware.
If you download a free spy app for Android, you’re giving a third party complete access to the device. The best free spy apps for Android are merely freemium versions of paid spy apps.
These are severely lacking in features. Paid spy apps offer a wide range of data tracking options, remote control capabilities, and compatibility with most major operating systems.
Paid spy apps are better and far safer than any free option. Since you pay for premium phone spy apps, the developers are incented to keep them updated.
Are Android Spy Apps Undetectable?
It depends on the spyware for Android you use, but most options on my list are undetectable. These hidden apps run in the background and don’t leave a visible trace, like an app icon, for the tracked individual to find, and you won’t see Android monitoring app file names on the target device, either.
What’s more, an Android monitoring app like GEOfinder or Scannero doesn’t require installing an app at all.
This is also a reason I don’t recommend free spy apps for phones. Apart from the safety risk and lack of advanced monitoring features, a free Android spy app is unlikely to be undetectable. For recommendations on Android spyware removal, on the other hand, see our guide to how to remove spyware from Android.
Is Android Spyware Legal?
All the apps I’ve reviewed on this page are legitimate and safe to use. However, some other spy apps may be illegal, depending on your location. Countries also have different laws on whether using spy apps for Android and other devices is legal.
For example, spyware laws in the US differ from UK spyware legislation. Laws can also vary between different types of spying, such as screen monitoring and GPS tracking. So, to be safe, I recommend reading up on the legality of spyware in your location.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Spy App for Android
I personally have extensive experience testing security and spyware tools. As such, I weigh the merits of each option and compare different providers against industry benchmarks. I personally review functionality, consider the pricing plans, guarantees, and trials offered, and examine real consumer feedback on the web.
When it came to reviewing the best spy apps for Android, I considered factors like:
Ease of InstallationLimited System ImpactDevice MonitoringRemote Device ControlLocation TrackingDevices CoveredTrials and GuaranteesUndetectable Spy AppValue for Money
It’s a huge bonus to be able to get started quickly and smoothly. If an Android spy app takes a lot of time to install, it may be unusable.
Naturally, you want your tracking app to interfere minimally with the device’s functioning—anything else can be a deal breaker. Make sure the spy app you choose doesn’t make the target device overheat or drain its battery. This will also make it quite easy to detect.
Each Android spy app provides a different level of access, and this is a key area where the top performers differentiate themselves. Make sure the app you choose actually works on the device you are trying to monitor, especially if it’s an older device.
The best spy apps for Android phones provide control over the camera and microphone for comprehensive monitoring. If this is important to you or a must-have, make sure the app you are looking at has this feature.
For further reassurance, location tracking and setting geofencing are invaluable—and not all apps can do them. Make sure the app you want to buy has the location tracking features you need, and look at what pricing tier these more advanced features fall under, as they may cost you extra.
Most of the apps I’ve looked at only cover one device, but a couple allow you to extend the reach of your monitoring far beyond that. ClevGuard is a good example of an app that lets you monitor more than one under certain plans.
While I don’t recommend free spy apps for Android, it’s great to be able to trial a phone spy app before buying or to get your money back if things don’t work out. In cases where no free trials are available, you can also check to see if the app has a virtual demo so you can see how it works in real life.
Most spy apps work silently in the background, allowing the individual to use the target device without interruption. It’s important to look for apps that won’t slow down the device, drain the battery, or send confusing prompts to the user, wasting their time.
Lastly, you need to consider each product’s value against its asking price – the most expensive option won’t necessarily be the best for everyone if it means paying for features you don’t need.
FAQs
Are Android spy apps safe?
Android phone spy apps are safe to use if you choose a reputable, reliable provider that takes measures to protect your data and privacy. My guide includes a range of reliable options.
What’s the best Android spy app this year?
The best Android spy app likely depends on the features you need as well as your budget and preferences. My in-depth research showed that mSpy is one of today’s most popular and reliable solutions.
How to check for spyware on Android?
To find hidden spy apps on Android, you can check for suspicious-looking apps in your phone’s app list or look for odd behavior, such as sudden battery drain or data usage spikes.
What are the best free spy apps for Android?
I discourage using free spy apps for Android and iPhone as these are generally unsafe and either scams or malware.
How do you remove spyware from Android devices?
If you suspect you have spyware on your device, you should run thorough scans with antivirus software, remove suspicious and unfamiliar programs, and ensure your system and software programs are up to date. If you believe there is still malware on your device after this, you should consider a factory reset.
Techopedia’s editorial policy is centered on delivering thoroughly researched, accurate, and unbiased content. We uphold strict sourcing standards, and each page undergoes diligent review by our team of top technology experts and seasoned editors. This process ensures the integrity, relevance, and value of our content for our readers.
Nick Saraev is a writer & entrepreneur who pivoted from a path in medicine to forge a series of successful digital media businesses. He's been featured in Popular Mechanics, Apple News, & Bloomberg, and is an Amazon Kindle best-seller. He has extensive experience in the tech and SaaS industry, writing in-depth guides to help users grasp technical concepts better.