The short answer
A dedicated battery tracker can last from a few days to several months, depending almost entirely on how often it reports. For phone tracking apps, a sensible interval (every 30 to 60 seconds) on a modern phone will usually get through a working shift; updating every second will drain a battery far faster.
What drains a GPS tracker’s battery
- Update frequency — by far the biggest factor. Each update wakes the GPS and the radio.
- Signal strength — weak mobile signal makes the radio work harder.
- Temperature — cold weather shortens battery life.
- Movement — many trackers report more often when moving.
How long do GPS tracker batteries last?
| Device | Typical battery life |
|---|---|
| Asset tracker reporting a few times a day | Months |
| Portable tracker reporting every few minutes | Days to a couple of weeks |
| Phone app, updates every 30–60 seconds | Usually a full working shift on a healthy battery |
| Phone app, updates every second | Hours, unless the phone is on charge |
GPS tracker with best battery life for long shifts
For people on long shifts, the most practical answer is often the phone they already carry, plus a charger in the vehicle. A phone on a dashboard mount with a charging cable can track all day at any interval. Away from a vehicle, choose a moderate interval (60 seconds or 5 minutes) and replace ageing phone batteries.
How TrackLink manages battery use
- 60-second updates by default, with 30-second and 5-minute options.
- The 5-second and 1-second modes are opt-ins with battery guidance shown first.
- When a phone is parked, TrackLink stops filling its history and just keeps a light check-in going.
- Tracking only runs when switched on, so it isn’t using battery outside working time.
Common questions
Does GPS tracking drain phone battery?
Some, depending mostly on the update interval. Every 30 to 60 seconds is a reasonable balance; every second uses much more.
How can I make a tracker's battery last longer?
Reduce the update frequency, keep it warm and in good signal, and keep phones on charge in vehicles.