AdvTracker FAQ: sharing, offline recording and battery
Sharing a trip, recording without signal, battery, and who can see what.
Do the people following me need an account or the app?
No. The link opens in any web browser, with no account to create and nothing to install.
Is AdvTracker free?
Yes. Recording trips, sharing them and following a shared trip cost nothing. The free plan keeps a finished trip for 90 days; an optional Pro plan keeps trips for as long as your account exists and adds GPX export.
Does the share link expire?
No. A link keeps working until you revoke or regenerate it, and either takes effect immediately: anyone still holding the old link sees "link no longer valid". Deleting your account removes its links at once.
Does the shared map update live?
Yes. While a trip is live, the share page refreshes itself every 30 seconds. After the trip ends, the link keeps showing the finished route.
Does it work without mobile signal?
Yes. The phone keeps recording where there is no signal, queues the points, and uploads them when reception returns. The people following you see that stretch of road appear once your phone reconnects.
How much battery does it use?
It depends on the phone and how much you move. AdvTracker records nothing while the phone is stationary, so a night in camp costs almost no battery. Android's Battery Saver and some manufacturers' battery settings can slow or stop recording; the documentation explains what to change.
Who can see my location?
Only you, and anyone you give a trip's share link to. The share page never shows who you are, and each trip has its own link, so sharing one trip reveals nothing about your others.
Which phones does AdvTracker run on?
Android, from Google Play. An iOS app is planned. People on any phone or computer can already follow your trips through the share link.
Is AdvTracker an emergency or SOS service?
No. AdvTracker must not be relied on for rescue. If you need help, contact local emergency services directly. For SOS beyond mobile coverage, carry a satellite communicator.