Can someone see my location without downloading an app?
Yes. Several services let you send a web link that shows your live location in a browser, so the other person doesn't need to install anything. Google Maps can share your real-time location through a link for up to 24 hours, even with someone who has no Google Account. Safety apps built for outings, such as Holler, send a private live link that your contacts open in any browser with no app or account.
Ways to share your location with no app on their end
01Use a Google Maps location link
In the Google Maps app, tap your profile picture, then Location sharing, and create a new share. To reach someone without a Google Account, copy the link and paste it into an email or message. Google says the link can show your real-time location for up to 24 hours. Anyone who has the link can see it, so send it only to people you trust.
02Use a safety app that sends a browser link
Apps made for runs, rides and hikes usually send a link rather than asking your contacts to install something. With Holler, your Guardians get a private live location link that opens in any web browser. If you set a return time, they also get an overdue alert if you haven't checked in five minutes after it.
03Know which options need the same app
Some built-in features work only between people using the same system. Apple's Check In in Messages, for example, requires iOS 17 or later for both the sender and the recipient. If your contact uses a different phone, a web link is the simpler choice.
04Send a one-time pin if that's all you need
If you just want to say "I'm here," drop a pin in your messaging app. It shows one spot, not your movements. It's fine for meeting up but not much help if something goes wrong later on your run.
05Stop sharing when you're done
Links are convenient because they're easy to open, which also means they're easy to forward. Use time-limited links, end sharing when you get home, and don't post live links publicly.
Related questions
Does the person need to create an account to see the link?
For a Google Maps link sent to someone without a Google Account, no. For Holler, Guardians don't need an account or an app to open the live link; they just tap it.
What happens if my phone loses signal?
Updates pause until your phone reconnects. Most live links keep showing the last known location, which is still useful to someone checking on you. Our page on whether live location sharing works without cell signal explains more.
Is it safe to share a location link?
It is if you control who gets it and how long it lasts. Send it privately to one or two people, choose time-limited sharing, and end it when you're done. Don't post it on social media.
What does the person see when they open a Holler link?
A map with your latest position and the route you've travelled as a line, plus how long ago the location last updated. If your phone loses signal or the battery dies, the page marks the location as stale and keeps your last known location on the map. If you send an SOS or miss your return time, the alert shows there too, and they can tap to acknowledge it so you and your other Guardians know someone is checking.
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Sources, checked September 2026: Google Maps Help: Share your real-time location with others, Apple Support: Use Check In on iPhone.
More safety answers, or see the safety guides.