Live location: how to measure battery and data use
There is no universal consumption figure for every phone. Use a controlled comparison to estimate battery and data use on your own device.
Feature availability
Instructions for My Safe Circle describe version 2.2, still in development and beta, and not released in app stores. Installed versions may lack the feature; interface and behaviour may change during testing.
No invented benchmark
We have no validated beta measurements to publish. Duration, screen use, signal, phone model, battery health and other apps affect results. An available session duration does not promise enough battery life.
Prepare comparable trials
Record device, system, app version, starting charge, network and power settings. Compare equal intervals without and with sharing, keeping route and screen use similar. Do not use test SOS messages.
Separate battery from data
Record remaining charge and the app usage reported by system settings. For mobile data, note counters before and after. Total battery loss includes other processes; do not attribute it all to location.
Decide for your journey
Repeat the comparison rather than treating one trial as a benchmark. Keep power for calls and navigation, avoid unnecessarily long sharing and carry charging equipment when appropriate. Stop when sharing is no longer useful.
Guides for your next step
To set up a session, read duration and recipients. For update issues, use the screen-off checks. For data after the session, see Stop, consent withdrawal and deletion.
Frequently asked questions
How much battery does it use per hour?
We do not publish a percentage without validated measurements. This method estimates use in your conditions, not every journey.
Is the feature already in app stores?
No. This guide describes version 2.2, still in development and beta; it does not promise availability in the published app.
Does a live session guarantee someone will act?
No. Sharing a point does not confirm a contact is watching the map or can respond. Agree separately who will respond.
Sources consulted
Technical and safety information was checked against the following official sources.
Guide by the My Safe Circle team, written from the app manual and checked on October 4, 2026 against the listed sources.
LIVE LOCATION, PRACTICAL CHOICES
Prepare your Circle
Check the manual and app version before looking for the feature. These guides describe voluntary use with approved recipients.
Explore My Safe CircleMy Safe Circle helps contact trusted people. It is not an emergency dispatch centre and cannot guarantee delivery, reading or intervention. For immediate danger, call your local emergency number.