#findmy — Public Fediverse posts
Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #findmy, aggregated by home.social.
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DATE: August 28, 2026 at 06:00AM
SOURCE: PSYPOST.ORG** Research quality varies widely from fantastic to small exploratory studies. Please check research methods when conclusions are very important to you. **
-------------------------------------------------TITLE: The psychology of why people share their smartphone location data with friends and family
URL: https://www.psypost.org/why-people-share-their-smartphone-location-data-with-friends-and-family/
People frequently track the real-time geographic movements of their close friends and family members through smartphone applications. A new survey of adults reveals that users most often share their whereabouts with romantic partners to manage practical logistics, while relying on the technology to monitor the physical safety of their parents and siblings. The findings were published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships.
Modern smartphones come equipped with a variety of tools that allow users to continuously broadcast their exact physical location to others. Features like Apple’s Find My, Google Maps, and dedicated tracking programs such as Life360 are increasingly common fixtures in daily life. Past research on this technology has often focused on specific risks, such as digital stalking or a loss of trust in romantic relationships. Other studies have examined how parents use these applications to monitor their adolescent children.
Yet little data exists regarding the broader social networks of location sharing. Researchers wanted to understand the full scope of who receives this access and the specific motivations driving these digital disclosures. Brian G. Ogolsky, a researcher at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and his colleagues sought to categorize the everyday habits of smartphone users. They grounded their work in communication privacy management theory, which suggests that people constantly negotiate the boundaries between personal privacy and social disclosure.
By treating geographic coordinates as a form of private information, the researchers aimed to map the changing norms of digital intimacy. Traditionally, social scientists have viewed privacy management as an active choice, where a person decides to reveal specific details in a specific moment. Smartphone tracking, however, creates a continuous and ambient stream of data. The research team wanted to know how people navigate this distinct type of constant revelation.
To gather the data, Ogolsky and his team recruited 203 adults between the ages of 19 and 59. The participants were required to own a smartphone and currently share their location with at least one person. During an online survey, participants opened their tracking applications and counted the total number of people who could see their movements. They then categorized their relationships with each person on the list.
Participants also answered open-ended questions detailing why they initially allowed access and why they continued to do so over time. The research team manually categorized the written responses, coding them into dozens of specific themes before collapsing them into four primary categories. This qualitative approach allowed the researchers to preserve the respondents’ own descriptions of their social behaviors.
The survey revealed that participants broadcast their location to an average of nearly four people. However, the majority of the respondents shared their whereabouts with just one or two individuals, indicating that people maintain tight privacy boundaries even with ambient technology. Romantic partners were the most common recipients of this information, selected by over 62 percent of the respondents. Friends and siblings were the next most common categories, followed by mothers, fathers, and children.
When analyzing the motivations for broadcasting physical movements, the researchers identified safety as the most frequently cited reason across the entire survey. Participants described using the technology to gain peace of mind and to ensure they could receive help in an emergency. They also mentioned safety in the context of developmental transitions, such as tracking a teenager who recently started driving or monitoring an aging parent who might face cognitive decline. The researchers noted that this type of safety is entirely passive, as it relies on the other person choosing to check the application when assistance is needed.
The second major category of motivation was practicality. People used location data to navigate the logistics of daily life, such as checking if a partner had left work or timing a dinner preparation. This allowed them to stay informed without needing to send a text message or make a phone call to ask for an estimated time of arrival. In this specific group of participants, staying informed of a partner’s movements was usually described as an issue of efficiency rather than an attempt to exert control.
A third category involved casual reasons for keeping tracking features active. Many participants cited sheer indifference, noting that they had forgotten the application was running or simply had no reason to turn it off. Some tracking applications enable location sharing by default, meaning users might accidentally broadcast their data continuously. Other respondents described using the technology purely for entertainment, with one participant noting that they “find it funny to check each other’s location and send texts about it.”
The final category involved relationship processes. In these instances, participants viewed the act of revealing their location as a way to maintain closeness or build trust. Some individuals used the continuous stream of geographic data to demonstrate transparency in a romantic partnership, offering explanations such as, “Because I’m fine with it. I have nothing to hide.” A small number of respondents reported sharing their location due to direct pressure from a partner or a cultural expectation that roommates should automatically know each other’s whereabouts.
The researchers then compared the reasons for sharing against the specific types of relationships. The motivations shifted depending on the person receiving the data. For romantic partners and friends, practical reasons dominated the decision to keep tracking applications active. These individuals likely spend a large portion of their time together and need efficient ways to coordinate shared schedules.
By contrast, safety was the primary driver for giving access to family members. Parents, children, and extended family members were granted access primarily to alleviate worries about physical well-being. Because adult children often live far away from their aging parents or extended family, location tracking provides a way to maintain a sense of connection and security across long physical distances.
The study relied on a specific demographic sample that was largely white, heterosexual, and highly educated. Because all participants already used tracking software, the results do not capture the perspectives of people who actively avoid the technology due to privacy concerns. The researchers also did not directly ask participants about intimate partner violence. This omission might have resulted in an underreporting of digital surveillance, controlling behaviors, or a lack of trust.
Future research will need to explore how digital boundaries change as tracking algorithms become more deeply integrated into daily life. Scientists also hope to investigate whether relying on passive digital tracking replaces traditional conversations, and how skipping basic logistical check-ins might alter interpersonal communication.
The study, “Near, Far, Wherever You Are: With Whom and Why Do People Use Location Sharing in Relationships,” was authored by Brian G. Ogolsky, Matthew Rivas-Koehl, Evaline Y. Li, Ghada Kawas, Emily J. Charvat, Christopher R. Maniotes and Jennifer L. Hardesty.
URL: https://www.psypost.org/why-people-share-their-smartphone-location-data-with-friends-and-family/
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#psychology #counseling #socialwork #psychotherapy @psychotherapist @psychotherapists @psychology @socialpsych @socialwork @psychiatry #mentalhealth #psychiatry #healthcare #depression #psychotherapist #LocationSharing #DigitalPrivacy #FindMy #Life360 #SmartphoneTracking #RelationshipDynamics #SafetyFirst #PracticalTracking #PrivacyManagement #AmbientDisclosure
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This week's penguin: Mmmmm.... Road herrings!
http://pengcognito.com/index.php?id=stalkmywaddle
#penguins #pengcognito #cartoon #FindMy -
I don't see my account as a hawking service to make any money.. it's just for thoughts and opinions. This however is a legit experience of this tech being a life saver..
I'm a forgetful person at the best of times, I am also wanting to know where my dog is, if I was an iPhone user I would be using Airtags everywhere, I'm not I'm Team Android.. so I've been using the Chipolo tags, on our keys (my wife is always forgetting where she puts hers), on the dog, and most importantly in luggage..
On a recent trip to India my bag ended up in New Delhi, I was in Bangalore. The guy at the lost luggage counter had no idea where my bag was, I told him specifically where it was in New Delhi airport.. got it back early the next day, I tracked it to the hotel.
So I just bought 2 more for luggage and I can use on the dog again. I got a QR code printed on a waterproof sticker so it's on his collar
There is a link here, and I get a free Chipolo tags if people buy from it, not money.. I don't want money, a free tag sounds nice..
http://ssqt.co/meUwf2K -
Ok... So I used to use Chipolo because they had bluetooth device finders that were no in the find my iphone or android device hub. I know this means I am less likely to find a stolen thing. But they allowed me to find my keys when the kid ran off with them or the fire tv remote when it was shoved in the couch.
Anyone know of a non-"find my" Bluetooth tracker/locator.
Preferably with some sort of sharing so my wife can ping them with her phone too!
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It'd be cool if I could get #FindMy/#AirTag locations integrated into #HomeAssistant, but alas.
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I love this story. Now if only bicycles were as automatically trackable!
#FindMy
https://www.asiaone.com/singapore/man-tracks-lost-airpods-case-jurong-toa-payoh -
My #AirPodsPro 3 has arrived, and I'm generally happy with it - but I am kinda annoyed that I'm missing the full feature set just bcos I've not updated to #iOS 26 yet on my main #iPhone.
I was told of this warning when setting it up, but I didn't realise it was gonna be substantial where even basic lil shit don't work. For example, I can't even precisely check its battery levels thru Settings - the whole spot where it's supposed to show this info is plain empty. Heck, the phone does not even know what fucking ear buds it is - both during setup and inside the Settings app, my #AirPods Pro is essentially recognised asAUDIO_ACCESSORYlmaoo giving me #Linux vibes on an #Apple product (worse, even).
Other shit too like it not appearing in #FindMy unless I look for it on my iOS 26 devices. Again, I get the possibility of not getting the 'full' feature set of the AirPods if I'm not using the latest iOS version that it 'launched' with, but 1) seriously? these shit are basic stuffs, and 2) it's not like I'm running some ancient 2-3+ gens old software - it's literally one iOS version ago, and I'm on the latest version of iOS 18 that was last updated ~a month ago or so, long past when this AirPods Pro was released.
Even for Apple's software standards which we all know has been garbage for the last year or so (AT LEAST, longer than that, realistically), this is pretty pathetic lol. Welp, anyway. I'd rather live with this than upgrade to iOS 26 - which I know first hand sucks aaaassss even on the latest flagship. I'm not even talking abt its pretty China esque looks, just performance/reliability-wise. It's not like iOS 18 is so good either, iOS 26 is just that ass. -
So Apple’s #FindMy at a major trade show in Las Vegas is constantly telling me I left my iPhone, wallet, AirPods etc behind, yet they are all with me.
Maybe all the phones, WiFi, etc causing havoc? But not good if you’re at a trade show and is actually leave something behind.
Figure it out Apple. There are thousands of iPhones here, surely FindMy should be more reliable?
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A four-pack of first-generation AirTags is $59.99 for Target Circle members today. #Apple #iPhone #AirTag #FindMy https://www.target.com/pl/663474231
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Troubleshooting location sharing in #Apple #FindMy for my in-laws. Any suggestions here? They’re set up as a family. We’ve toggled all the settings on/off: location services, FindMy, location sharing in Family, etc, on both devices
Location sharing *is* working the other direction, and works with other people
Just not outbound sharing with this specific person
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Xiaomi’s new Tag adds a built‑in loop, NFC and a coin‑cell battery, letting it sync with Apple Find My and Google Find Hub. A cross‑platform Bluetooth tracker that could become the go‑to open‑source‑friendly alternative for anyone tired of proprietary dongles. #XiaomiTag #BluetoothTracker #FindMy #FindHub
🔗 https://aidailypost.com/news/xiaomi-tag-includes-builtin-loop-works-apple-find-my-google-find-hub
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Apple's Second-Generation AirTag Enhances Tracking with Improved Range and Apple Watch Precision Finding
https://newsletter.tf/apple-airtag-2-tracking-range-sound/
Apple's new AirTag has better tracking range, a louder sound, and works with more Apple Watches.
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New Apple AirTag Helps You Find Things Better
Apple has released a new version of its AirTag. This second AirTag can help you find lost items from farther away. It also makes a louder sound to help you hear it. Some Apple Watches can now help you find your AirTag too.
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Das #XiaomiTag ist da: Für unter 20 Euro bietet der #Bluetooth-#Tracker eine günstige Alternative zum #AirTag - kompatibel mit Apple Find My und Googles Find Hub. #Xiaomi #Tag #FindMy #FindHub https://winfuture.de/news,156767.html?utm_source=Mastodon&utm_medium=ManualStatus&utm_campaign=SocialMedia
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🆕Nowy Apple Air Tag oficjalnie! Większy zasięg, głośniejszy sygnał i wsparcie Apple Watch
➡️https://rootblog.pl/apple-air-tag-drugiej-generacji-oficjalnie-debiutuje/ -
Apple's 'AirTag 2' vs. the OG 'AirTag 1' showdown is officially on! Apparently, the new model tracks 'better.' Because what we all needed was *more* precise item-losing capabilities, right? What's your take on upgrading?
https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/apple-airtag-2nd-generation-vs-airtag-1st-generation/
#AirTag #AppleTech #Gadgets #TechNews #FindMy -
Apple just dropped the AirTag 2nd-generation with some notable improvements 📍 under the hood. The tracker now offers double the range and louder audio feedback compared to the original model. The upgrades also extend to integration with newer Apple devices 🔊. Read the article to learn what's changed and whether the improvements justify an upgrade.
https://true-tech.net/apple-airtag-2nd-generation-launched/
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Apple lanza el nuevo AirTag,: mayor alcance, altavoz más potente y rastreo desde el Apple Watch
Apple ha renovado oficialmente su popular localizador de objetos. El nuevo AirTag (segunda generación) mantiene su diseño icónico pero integra el chip de banda ultraancha de segunda generación, lo que permite un rastreo mucho más preciso y a mayor distancia. Además, por primera vez, los usuarios podrán localizar sus pertenencias directamente desde su Apple Watch (Fuente Apple).
Casi cinco años después del lanzamiento del modelo original, Apple ha presentado hoy la evolución de su rastreador inteligente. El nuevo AirTag se centra en mejorar la experiencia de búsqueda gracias a la inclusión del chip de banda ultraancha de segunda generación (el mismo que utilizan los iPhone 17 y Apple Watch Series 11). Según Apple, esta actualización permite que la función de «Búsqueda de Precisión» guíe al usuario hacia su objeto desde una distancia un 50% mayor que la generación anterior.
Otra mejora significativa se encuentra en su altavoz interno. Con un diseño rediseñado, el nuevo AirTag es un 50% más ruidoso, lo que permite escuchar el pitido de alerta desde una distancia hasta dos veces superior. Esto es especialmente útil en entornos ruidosos o cuando el objeto está oculto bajo cojines o dentro de maletas pesadas. Además, la compañía ha habilitado la Búsqueda de Precisión en el Apple Watch (Series 9, Ultra 2 y posteriores), permitiendo que los usuarios reciban indicaciones hápticas y visuales directamente en su muñeca sin necesidad de sacar el iPhone.
A nivel de software, el nuevo dispositivo se integra con la función de iOS que permite compartir la ubicación de un objeto de forma temporal con terceros, como aerolíneas, facilitando la recuperación de equipaje perdido. En cuanto al precio, Apple ha decidido mantener los costos competitivos: $29 dólares por una unidad y $99 dólares por el paquete de cuatro. El nuevo AirTag ya está disponible para pedidos y requiere iOS 26 o posterior para aprovechar todas sus funciones.
#airtag #APPLE #applewatch #arielmcorg #FindMy #gadgets #infosertec #innovación #ios #iPhone #localizador #PORTADA #tecnología
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Apple introduces new AirTag with longer range, louder sound, and easier item tracking
https://fed.brid.gy/r/https://nerds.xyz/2026/01/apple-new-airtag-longer-range/
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Apple should really integrate Find My into the Apple Card. It'd be such a great way to make sure you don't lose your wallet while eliminating the need for adding an additional tracking card to it.
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#Apple 's people location sharing on #FindMy is actually pretty nice - it's so simple to setup. If you have old parents for instance, it's nice to just get on the app on their #iPhone, share location (indefinitely) to your number, and then you can just check out where they are from the Find My app on your phone at any time, rather than make them remember to always start a live location sharing on #WhatsApp or wtv. I reckon it might not take as much battery life too, as I imagine it only pings for its location when you're looking for it.
That being said, if you do wish to set up notifications for this location tracking, it's gonna be painful and not worth it lol - for that, you're best left with #Life360 which you could easily set up certain 'zones' i.e. home, workplace, etc. and you'll always be notified if anyone in your circle's left or arrived a zone, and even nicer, even if it's not a pre-defined zone - it'll still tell you if they've stopped or left from a location. If you don't need this tho, Find My is the way to go. -
Apple AirTags 4-pack hitting a record low of $63 for #CyberMonday! That's just $16 per tracker to keep tabs on all your 'misplaced' gear via the Find My network. Remember, you'll need an accessory to attach them. Are these the ultimate solution for the perpetually misplacing, or just another gadget to lose?
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Lost your sanity (or your keys) one too many times? 🔑 Apple AirTag 4-packs are only $65 for Black Friday, bringing them down to $16 each! Perfect for your tech gear, backpack, or that perpetually disappearing project documentation. What's the most valuable (or most frequently lost) item you'd trust an AirTag with?
🔗 https://www.engadget.com/deals/a-four-pack-of-airtags-drops-to-65-for-black-friday-161756950.html?src=rss
#BlackFridayDeals #AppleTech #FindMy #TechHumor #DevLife -
Another year, another quest to find your keys! 🔑 Engadget's 'Best Bluetooth Trackers for 2025' is out, digging into AirTags, SmartTags, and the revamped Google Find Hub. Turns out, some trackers are better at playing hide-and-seek than others (RIP, lost Moto Tag).
Read the full breakdown: https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/best-bluetooth-tracker-140028377.html?src=rss
What's the one item you absolutely CANNOT afford to lose?
#BluetoothTracker #TechReview #Gadgets #FindMy #TechNews -
Nomad's latest device is a Find My tracker that looks like an Apple Card. #Nomad #Apple #FindMy
https://gadgetbond.com/nomad-tracking-card-pro-apple-find-my-support/
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Lost your keys (or sanity) again? 🔑
Engadget just dropped their picks for the best Apple AirTag accessories of 2025. From sleek wallet inserts to rugged cases, never misplace your essentials (or your peace of mind) again.What's the one item you can't afford to lose, and how do you track it?
#Apple #AirTag #TechAccessories #FindMy #Gadgets
https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessories/best-apple-airtag-cases-holders-accessories-123036404.html?src=rss -
Мой опыт: украденный iPhone и фишинг — еще одна схема
Дисклеймер: это небольшой апдейт по ситуации с фишинговой схемой, с которой я столкнулся после кражи моего iPhone. Тогда мне приходили мошеннические ссылки через iMessage, а тут речь про сообщения в электронную почту. Вчера в груде рассылок и уведомлений мне бросилось в глаза письмо как бы от Apple (Локатор) c темой «Звук был воспроизведен на iPhone 14 Plus». Вспомнил, что подобные сообщения мне приходили и раньше, когда я пробовал пинговать свой украденный телефон через FindMy (Локатор). Тогда я не обратил на них внимания, поскольку доступ к локации и прочим функциям у меня были на другом устройстве Apple. А тут, когда с последнего трекинга в Локаторе прошло три недели, я присмотрелся к сообщению.
