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Top 10 Free Spy Apps You Can Use to Monitor Any Device Easily

Vince Weiss
Vince Weiss
Mar 13, 2025

Monitoring a phone’s activity has become easier with the rise of spy apps. Free spy apps have gained popularity because of their monitoring qualities. However, finding a truly free and reliable spy app is tricky. Some also pose privacy and security risks.

In this guide, we will explore the best free spy apps available, comparing their features, benefits, and limitations.

Free Spy Apps

What Are Free Spy Apps?

Free spy apps are mobile applications designed to monitor and track device activities without requiring direct access to the target phone. These apps allow users to keep an eye on calls, messages, GPS locations, browsing history, and even social media activities. While often marketed as parental control tools or employee monitoring solutions, some individuals also use them for relationship tracking or security purposes.

Most free spy apps operate discreetly in the background, making them difficult to detect. Some require installation on the target device, while others work remotely using cloud-based data access. However, the features of free spy apps are often limited compared to premium versions, which offer advanced functionalities like call recording, geofencing, and keylogging.

While these apps can provide valuable insights, it's essential to use them responsibly and ensure compliance with legal and ethical guidelines regarding digital privacy.

How Free Spy Apps Can Help

Free spy apps offer several benefits, particularly for parents, employers, and individuals concerned about security and digital safety. Here’s how they can be useful:

  1. Parental Control & Child Safety – Parents can use free spy apps to monitor their children's online activities, track their location, and protect them from cyberbullying or online predators. Some apps provide alerts for suspicious content or excessive screen time.
  2. Employee Monitoring – Employers can track company-owned devices to ensure that employees use them for work-related purposes. This can help prevent data leaks, unauthorized activities, and productivity loss.
  3. Relationship Monitoring – Some individuals use spy apps to check for signs of infidelity, such as suspicious calls, hidden messages, or social media activity. However, it’s important to consider the legal and ethical implications before using these tools for personal relationships.
  4. Device Security & Theft Prevention – Spy apps with GPS tracking can help locate lost or stolen devices. Some even allow users to remotely wipe data or lock the phone to prevent unauthorized access.
  5. Elderly or Vulnerable Person Tracking – Caregivers can use free spy apps to track elderly family members or individuals with medical conditions, ensuring their safety in case of emergencies.

While free spy apps can be beneficial, they often come with limitations, such as fewer features, restricted tracking capabilities, and potential security risks. For more comprehensive monitoring, premium spy apps may offer better reliability and functionality.

Top 10 Free Spy Apps for Android and iPhone

With so many monitoring apps available, finding a reliable free spy app can be challenging. Whether you're a parent wanting to ensure your child's online safety or someone looking to track a device for security reasons, the right app can make all the difference. Below are the top 10 free spy apps that offer useful monitoring features without requiring a paid subscription.

1. SafeMyKid – Best Phone Spy App

SafeMyKid is a standout in the parental control category, offering comprehensive monitoring features to help parents keep track of their child’s online activities. It provides an easy-to-use platform to ensure your child’s safety without invasive methods. SafeMyKid can also be used to track your partner’s activities.

SafeMyKid Free Spy App

Key Features:

When looking for a free spy app, it’s essential to choose one that offers reliable tracking and monitoring capabilities. Below are the key features of SafeMyKid that let it stand out:

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  • Live GPS Tracking: Allows parents to track their child’s location in real time, providing peace of mind when they’re out of the house.
  • Call & SMS Monitoring: View incoming and outgoing calls and text messages. SafeMyKid records all conversations and text logs, ensuring parents know who their child is communicating with.
  • App Usage Control: Monitor the usage of apps on your child’s device and restrict access to inappropriate apps.
  • Web Filtering: Block adult sites and inappropriate content, which is crucial for younger users.
  • Stealth Mode: The app runs in the background, making it invisible on the device, so your child won’t be aware of it.

How to Use SafeMyKid to Spy Freely

SafeMyKid is the best choice that offers reliability and user-friendliness. It offers powerful monitoring features designed for parental control and child safety. Below, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to set up and use SafeMyKid on both Android and iPhone devices.

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How to Spy Freely on Android Devices

Step 1. Sign up and create your account using your email address.

Sign Up page for SafeMyKid

Step 2. Easily install the SafeMyKid app on the target Android device.

Set Up SafeMyKid on the Android

Step 3. Begin spying on your child or partner in real time through SafeMyKid’s online dashboard.

Spying on your kid or partner on Android

How to Spy Freely on Apple Devices

Step 1. Create your free account by entering your valid email address.

Sign Up to SafeMyKid on Apple Devices

Step 2. Input the target iPhone’s iCloud credentials to the website to link to the target Apple device. There is no need for an app installation.

Configuring SafeMyKid on the Target iPhone

Step 3. Begin to use SafeMyKid to spy on your child or partner from the online dashboard.

Spying on your child or partner on iPhone

Why Choose SafeMyKid?

When searching for a free spy app, it's important to find one that offers accuracy, reliability, and discretion. Here’s why SafeMyKid stands out as the best choice for monitoring and security.

  • Best for Parental Control: SafeMyKid is highly recommended for parents wanting to protect their children from online dangers.
  • User-Friendly Interface: The app is intuitive, making it easy for non-technical parents to navigate and monitor their child’s device.
  • No Jailbreak or Root Required: SafeMyKid works without needing to jailbreak or root the device, making installation easier and safer.

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2. iKeyMonitor – Free Spy App with Basic Features

iKeyMonitor is another solid option for those looking for phone monitoring features that don’t come with a hefty price tag. The app is useful for monitoring both iPhones and Android devices and provides a range of functionalities, especially useful for parents and employers.

iKeyMonitor free spy app

Key Features:

  • Keylogger: Records everything typed on the target phone, including passwords, messages, and search queries.
  • Social Media Tracking: Monitors activity on social media apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Snapchat.
  • GPS Tracking: Tracks the phone’s real-time location, which is valuable for monitoring children and employees.
  • Geofencing: Alerts you when the device enters or leaves designated areas.

Limitations:

  • The free version offers only basic features such as call logs and GPS tracking but lacks premium options like call recording or screenshots.
  • The trial period is limited, and full access requires a paid subscription.

Why Consider iKeyMonitor?

  • Free Version: Provides access to basic monitoring tools without any cost.
  • Wide Compatibility: Works for both iOS and Android devices.
  • Keylogging Feature: A unique feature for those who want to monitor what is being typed on the phone.

3. Hoverwatch – Free Spy App for Android Users

Hoverwatch is primarily an Android-only spy app that offers a range of features for free. While it’s free to use, it also has premium versions that unlock more advanced features like call recording.

Hoverwatch free spy app

Key Features:

  • Call Recording: Records both incoming and outgoing calls, allowing you to listen to conversations remotely.
  • Screenshot Capture: Takes screenshots at intervals and sends them to the dashboard for monitoring.
  • Location Tracking: Tracks the device’s movements using GPS.
  • Text Message Tracking: Monitors SMS, including deleted messages.
  • Stealth Mode: The app works discreetly in the background, without drawing attention.

Limitations:

  • Android-Only: The app is not compatible with iOS devices, limiting its usage.
  • Free Version Restrictions: Advanced features like call recording are locked behind the paid version.

Why Consider Hoverwatch?

  • Best for Android Monitoring: It offers robust monitoring features for Android devices without needing to root the phone.
  • Effective Call Tracking: The call recording feature is perfect for tracking phone calls in detail.

4. mSpy – Free Trial for iPhone & Android

mSpy is one of the most well-known spy apps, offering a 7-day free trial with full access to all features. After the trial, users are required to upgrade to a paid plan for continued access.

mSpy free spy app

Key Features:

  • Social Media Monitoring: Monitors WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and other messaging platforms.
  • Keylogger: Tracks all typed data, including passwords and messages.
  • Geofencing: Notifies you when the device crosses a boundary, such as leaving a certain location.
  • Call & SMS Monitoring: Keeps track of calls and texts.

Limitations:

  • Trial Period: The free trial lasts only 7 days, after which a subscription is necessary for continued use.
  • Limited Features in the trial version.

Why Consider mSpy?

  • Comprehensive Features: Offers full monitoring capabilities, from social media tracking to keylogging.
  • Free Trial: The 7-day trial period provides a decent opportunity to test all features.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Available for both Android and iOS.

5. Spyic – Free Spy App for iPhone & Android

Spyic is another cloud-based spy app that offers basic phone tracking features for free. Unlike many other apps, Spyic does not require installation on iPhones, making it easier to monitor devices without physical access.

Spyic free spy app

Key Features:

  • Social Media Monitoring: Tracks Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other apps.
  • Call & SMS Tracking: Monitors text messages, call logs, and contacts.
  • Location Tracking: Provides real-time GPS location and location history.
  • Stealth Mode: Works discreetly in the background without alerting the target device.

Limitations:

  • Basic Features: The free version lacks advanced features like keylogging and live screenshots.
  • Paid Subscription: Many key features are only available after upgrading to a paid plan.

Why Consider Spyic?

  • No Installation on iPhone: You can monitor iPhones remotely using iCloud credentials.
  • Stealth Mode: It operates invisibly on Android devices.
  • Free Trial: Spyic offers a limited free version to get started.

6. uMobix – Spy App with Limited Free Features

uMobix offers a free version with basic phone monitoring capabilities. The app is designed for parents and employers who need to track their children or employees.

uMobix free spy app

Key Features:

  • Phone Call Monitoring: Tracks all calls made and received.
  • Text Message Monitoring: Keeps track of SMS and WhatsApp messages.
  • Location Tracking: Monitors the GPS location of the device.

Limitations:

  • The free version only offers access to basic features like call logs and GPS tracking.
  • Limited Social Media Tracking is available without upgrading.

Why Consider uMobix?

  • Free Basic Version: Provides enough features for those who need to monitor basic activity.
  • Android Compatibility: Works on Android devices, providing real-time data.

7. Cocospy – Best for Location Tracking

Cocospy is best known for its location-tracking feature. It’s a reliable app for parents and employers who need to track the physical location of a device in real time.

Cocospy free spy app

Key Features:

  • Live Location Tracking: Tracks GPS coordinates in real-time, providing updates on the target device’s location.
  • Call & SMS Monitoring: Keeps track of the messages and call logs.
  • No Jailbreak Required: Cocospy works on iPhones without needing to jailbreak the device.

Limitations:

  • Basic Features: Doesn’t offer advanced features like keylogging or social media tracking.
  • Limited Free Trial: The free trial only lasts a short period before requiring a paid subscription.

Why Consider Cocospy?

  • Ideal for Location Tracking: Perfect for monitoring the location of children or employees in real time.
  • User-Friendly: Easy to install and use, especially for non-tech-savvy users.

8. XNSPY – Free Trial Available

XNSPY provides a 3-day free trial, allowing users to test the app’s core features. It’s a comprehensive spy app with features like call monitoring, social media tracking, and GPS location tracking.

XNSPY free spy app

Key Features:

  • Call & SMS Monitoring: Tracks both calls and text messages.
  • Social Media Monitoring: Monitors activity on WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and more.
  • Location Tracking: Uses GPS to track the device’s real-time location.

Limitations:

  • 3-Day Free Trial: The free trial lasts only three days, which may not be sufficient for thorough testing.
  • Premium Features are locked behind the subscription model.

Why Consider XNSPY?

  • Free Trial: A short free trial gives you a quick preview of its features.
  • Comprehensive Features: Offers extensive monitoring, from calls to social media and location tracking.

9. TheTruthSpy – Free Trial for Android Users

TheTruthSpy is another spy app that offers a free trial period for users looking to monitor both Android and iOS devices. It comes with a set of features like call tracking, location monitoring, and even camera control.

TheTruthSpy free spy app

Key Features:

  • Call & SMS Monitoring: Allows you to listen to calls and read text messages.
  • GPS Tracking: Tracks the device’s movements.
  • Access to Photos & Videos: View images and videos from the target device.

Limitations:

  • Limited Features in the free version, with more advanced features requiring a subscription.
  • Free Trial Period: The trial only lasts for a few days, limiting long-term use without payment.

Why Consider TheTruthSpy?

  • Free Trial: Provides a brief trial period to test its functionalities.
  • Android Compatibility: Works best for Android devices.

10. FlexiSPY – Free Trial for Key Features

FlexiSPY offers a free trial for some of its more basic features, making it an ideal choice for users interested in monitoring their mobile devices. It includes a full range of tools that can monitor calls, texts, social media, and much more.

FlexiSPY free spy app

Key Features:

  • Call & Message Monitoring: Track calls and text messages.
  • Spy on Social Media: View messages and media from apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and more.
  • GPS Location Tracking: Real-time tracking of the device’s location.

Limitations:

  • Short Free Trial: The free trial doesn’t last long, and advanced features require a paid plan.
  • Android/Rooting: Rooting the device might be necessary for full functionality on Android devices.

Comparison of the Top 10 Free Spy Apps for Android and iPhone

When comparing the top 10 free spy apps for Android and iPhone, it becomes evident that each app offers unique features tailored to different monitoring needs. While some excel in parental control and location tracking, others provide more comprehensive monitoring for calls, messages, and social media activity.

However, most free versions come with limitations, often requiring a paid upgrade for full functionality. Understanding these differences can help users select the best app based on their specific requirements.

S/NO Spy App Best For Key Features Limitations

1

SafeMyKid

Parental control and child monitoring

● Live GPS tracking

● Call & SMS monitoring

● App usage control

● Web filtering

● Stealth mode

None

2

iKeyMonitor

Basic monitoring for parents and employers

● Keylogger

● Social media tracking

● GPS tracking

● Geofencing

● Limited free features

● Full access requires a paid subscription

3

Hoverwatch

Android users need call and text tracking

● Call recording

● Location tracking

● Text message monitoring

● Stealth mode

● Android-only

● Advanced features require payment

4

mSpy

Short-term comprehensive tracking

● Social media monitoring

● Keylogger

● Geofencing

● Call & SMS tracking

● Only a 7-day free trial

● Limited features in the free version

5

Spyic

iPhone users without physical access to the device

● Social media monitoring

● Location tracking

● Call & SMS tracking

● Stealth mode

● The basic free version

● Premium features require payment

6

uMobix

Basic phone monitoring for parents and employers

● Phone call & text monitoring

● Location tracking

● Limited social media tracking

● Basic features only in the free version

7

Cocospy

Location tracking

● Live GPS tracking

● Call & SMS monitoring

● No jailbreak required

● Limited free trial

● Lacks keylogging and social media tracking

8

XNSPY

Short-term trial with extensive features

● Call & SMS tracking

● Social media monitoring

● GPS tracking

● Only a 3-day free trial

● Premium features locked behind a subscription

9

TheTruthSpy

Android users looking for short-term tracking

● Call monitoring

● GPS tracking

● Access to photos & videos

● The free trial lasts only a few days

● Many features require payment

10.

FlexiSPY

Advanced phone surveillance

● Call recording

● Live call listening

● Social media tracking

● Keylogger

● No real free version, only a demo

● High price for full features

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Free Spy Apps

With so many free spy apps available, it's natural to have questions about how they work, their legality, and their limitations. To help you make an informed decision, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about spy apps for Android and iPhone:

1. Are spy apps completely free to use?

Not always. Most free spy apps offer limited features or a free trial for a few days. To access advanced features like social media monitoring and GPS tracking, a paid subscription is usually required.

2. Do I need to install spy apps on the target phone?

For Android devices, most spy apps require installation on the target phone. However, for iPhones, some apps can work remotely using iCloud credentials without requiring physical access.

3. Are free spy apps legal to use?

The legality of spy apps depends on how they are used and local laws. It is typically legal for parents to monitor their children’s devices and for employers to track company-owned phones with employee consent. Spying on someone without their permission is illegal in most countries.

4. Can spy apps be detected on the target device?

Some spy apps operate in stealth mode, making them hard to detect. However, tech-savvy users may notice unusual battery drain, data usage, or suspicious background activity, which could indicate the presence of a spy app.

5. What is the best free spy app for monitoring a child’s phone?

SafeMyKid is a great option for parental monitoring as it offers features like real-time location tracking, app monitoring, and web filtering. It is specifically designed for child safety and provides a free trial to test its features before committing to a paid plan.

Conclusion

The best free spy apps for Android and iPhone offer a variety of features designed to cater to different user needs. While these apps provide useful tools like GPS tracking, call monitoring, social media tracking, and keylogging, it's important to note that many come with limitations in their free versions.

Some apps offer full functionality through paid subscriptions, but the free trials still give users a valuable opportunity to assess whether the app fits their needs. Whether you're aiming for child safety, employee monitoring, or device security, the right spy app can provide peace of mind and a secure digital environment.

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