Managing GPS devices from a phone is especially important during visits, travel, and field operations. This update improved the Secure GPS mobile app for iOS and Android with a redesigned interface, compatible native map navigation, SMS commands when an Internet connection is unavailable, and better compatibility with mobile operating system restrictions.
Custom mobile applications were also strengthened with improved display on iOS phones that have a screen cutout and more reliable background tracking on Android. The goal is to help supervisors, owners, and operational teams review or manage devices with less friction from a mobile phone.
GPS tracking from the Secure GPS mobile app
The mobile app provides access from a phone to tracking functions associated with a Secure GPS account. Depending on permissions, plan, and device compatibility, users can review locations, check tracker status, and use available actions without relying on a desktop computer.
This mobility is useful for responding to a roadside exception, checking an asset during a visit, following a delivery, or reviewing device status while the person in charge is away from the office.
A more direct and intuitive mobile interface
The iOS experience was redesigned to make functions easier to reach. Clearer organization reduces the time needed to find the map, select a device, and perform an action during an operational situation.
The update does not change the purpose of Secure GPS: centralizing GPS tracking, device visualization, and management tools. Its advantage is presenting those capabilities in a format better suited to touch screens and use while mobile.
Compatible native maps on iOS
The app introduced a compatible native map experience on iOS. This improves map interaction and provides smoother navigation when viewing the location of vehicles, assets, or authorized people.
In daily work, a supervisor can zoom into a position, move around the area, and review geographic context with familiar phone gestures. Displayed accuracy still depends on the position transmitted by the tracker, its installation, coverage, and signal quality.
SMS commands when the phone has no Internet connection
One of the main functions in this version is the ability to send compatible commands by SMS when the phone has no data connection. This provides an alternative way to manage certain trackers when Wi-Fi or mobile data access is unavailable.
The workflow can help in areas with limited Internet connectivity, during a temporary outage, or while installing a device in the field. The command uses the carrier's messaging network, so it should not be confused with operation without any cellular coverage.
What is required for SMS commands
- The tracker must support the command being sent by SMS.
- The GPS device must have a line and phone number configured correctly.
- The phone needs cellular network coverage and messaging capability.
- The app must have the permissions required by the operating system.
- The carrier plan may apply messaging charges or limits.
- Delivery and execution depend on the carrier, tracker status, and correct command syntax.
For safety, users should verify the recipient and action before sending a command that can change device configuration or behavior.
Better Secure GPS app compatibility with Android 13
The Secure GPS app was adapted for Android 13 and its operating requirements. This compatibility helps maintain tracking access on updated phones and reduces issues caused by changes in the operating system.
Icon loading issues were also corrected. More consistent visual representation makes devices and statuses easier to recognize in lists and maps, especially when several assets are supervised on a small screen.
Improved display in custom iOS applications
Custom mobile applications for iOS received a status bar adjustment for phones with a screen cutout. The correction prevents content from being hidden or misplaced at the top and improves access to pages and controls.
For a business that provides a custom application to employees or customers, this detail creates a more professional presentation and reduces mistakes when tapping elements near the system area.
More reliable Android background tracking
Custom Android applications were adapted to recent system restrictions so location updates can continue when tracking is enabled. Background startup on Android 12 was corrected, and the service was adjusted to operate continuously according to the app's status.
When a user has enabled tracking, the application can check at phone startup whether operation should resume. Service notifications also reflect application status, providing clearer visibility into when tracking is active.
Battery optimization control for mobile tracking
Android can restrict background processes to save power. This version added a battery optimization screen that guides people who use the phone as a tracking device and lets them review the restrictions applied to Secure GPS.
Disabling power saving for the app can support more continuous updates, but it can also increase battery consumption. Each user should balance reporting frequency, autonomy, permissions, and organizational policies.
Real-world applications of these mobile improvements
- Field installation: send a compatible SMS command when a data connection is unavailable.
- Supervision during travel: review the map and device status from a phone.
- Incident response: quickly access location and authorized actions.
- Phone as a tracker: maintain background tracking with the appropriate battery configuration.
- Custom applications: provide a more consistent visual experience to employees or customers.
How to prepare a phone for reliable tracking
- Update the Secure GPS mobile app to a version compatible with your operating system.
- Sign in and confirm that authorized devices are visible.
- Review location, notification, and SMS permissions when the function requires them.
- If the phone will report its own location, check background and battery settings.
- Test SMS commands with a compatible device and a controlled action before relying on them in the field.
- Confirm coverage, messaging balance or plan, and the tracker's phone number.
Functional summary for users and integrators
The update introduced a redesigned iOS interface, compatible native maps, SMS commands to trackers without a data connection, Android 13 compatibility, and more stable icon loading. For custom applications, it corrected top-area display on iOS and strengthened startup, continuity, notifications, and battery configuration for Android background tracking. Final availability depends on the operating system, permissions, cellular network, and the tracker's public capabilities.
Explore Secure GPS plans and features to manage GPS devices from the web and mobile experience according to your operational needs.