AlkateiaLive location sharing sends new positions while active. It does not mean a perfect, continuous view of every movement: the phone must obtain the position, the app must transmit it, and the recipient must receive it.
Are GPS and live location the same thing? No. GPS helps a device calculate its position using satellite signals. Phone location services may also use Wi-Fi, mobile networks, and sensors, depending on settings. Live sharing is an app feature that sends updates of that position to other people. (Android Help)
Obtain positionThe phone estimates where it is.
TransmitThe app sends an update.
ReceiveThe relative sees the position and timestamp.
What is the difference between current and live location? Current location is a point sent at one moment. If the person moves, that message does not automatically represent the new place. With live sharing, the app requests and sends new updates while active. Even then, check every timestamp: delays and interruptions can occur. (Android Developers)
Which modes does Alkateia offer? Alkateia lets you send current location, share for 15 minutes or keep location live until canceled. These are different choices. A current point may be enough for a meeting place. A limited duration may suit an agreed short journey. Continuous mode requires attention to ending it.
| Mode | What it sends | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Current | A position obtained at that moment | Show where you are or arrange a meeting |
| 15 minutes | Updates during that period | A short journey or brief situation |
| Live | Updates until canceled | When sharing is needed for longer |
Updates depend on connectivity, permissions, and device conditions. Check the position's timestamp.
Why can phone GPS be inaccurate? The environment and reception affect the estimate. Positions may be less accurate indoors or near obstacles; permissions and settings also affect what the app receives. A map point does not prove a room, floor, or exact presence at an address. (Android Help)
Does the map prove someone is there right now? Not on its own. Check whether sharing is active, the displayed time, and whether it is a recent or last-known position. An old record may remain visible. Before interpreting a map deviation, try confirming by message or call. (Android Developers)
How should you use it with family? Agree on purpose, recipient, and duration. Check requested permissions and test in a calm situation. In Alkateia, sharing takes place within the authorized family context. See how to share for a few minutes, what to check if updates stop and battery and connection limitations.
Sources and references
- Android Help — Manage location settings
- Android Developers — Request location updates
- Android Developers — Get the last known location
Sources accessed September 20, 2026. Informational content produced by Alkateia; information about the app describes its own features.