Frequently asked questions
Browse by topic, then open each question. Consent-based monitoring only — see our legal notice.
„General Application Questions”
How much does Activity Recorder & Tracker cost?
Just $12 as a one-time payment. No monthly subscriptions, no hidden fees. Unlike mSpy ($140/year) or FlexiSPY ($149–350/year), you pay once and own it forever. That's 89–94% cheaper than other monitoring apps.
Where are my recordings stored?
All screenshots and videos upload automatically to your Google Drive when the phone has WiFi. Files are stored locally on the phone until upload. If you don't connect Google Drive, files stay on the device only. We never have access to your files — they're yours and yours alone.
Is Activity Recorder & Tracker invisible on the phone?
Yes, completely invisible after installation. The app hides its icon, runs silently in the background, and auto-starts when the phone reboots. There's no indication it's running — which is why you must only use it with proper consent and legal authority.
Do I need GPS tracking for parental control?
Most parents don't. If you just want to see what apps they use, what videos they watch, and who they message, screenshots show everything. GPS tracking drains battery and costs $140+/year. Our app focuses on what you actually need: visual proof of screen activity.
Can this app be used for employee monitoring?
Yes — on company-owned devices, when employees are properly informed, AR&T can help you see time on work vs. personal apps and reduce data-leak risk. Important: employees must be informed of monitoring for legal compliance in your jurisdiction.
Why are screenshots better than full message monitoring?
Screenshots show context: the actual app interface, profile pictures, images, videos, and exactly how the device is being used. You get visual proof that transcripts alone can't provide, plus it uses way less storage and battery.
About the app — frequently asked questions
How does the app stay invisible on the device?
After installation, the app disguises itself as a system security component (
com.securityscreen), removes its icon from the app list, and operates silently in the background. Screenshots are taken without sound or notification, and recordings aren't visible in the media gallery. The app can only be accessed through Settings → Applications → App Info.
What happens if I don't connect Google Drive?
All screenshots and videos will be stored locally on the device in a temporary folder. You can access them by connecting the device to a computer or by setting up Google Drive later. We recommend connecting Google Drive for automatic backups and remote access to recordings.
Will the app drain the phone battery?
Activity Recorder & Tracker is optimized for minimal battery impact. Screenshot mode uses very little battery, similar to taking occasional photos. Video mode uses more battery (comparable to recording regular video), but only when actively recording. By avoiding GPS tracking and constant background data sync, the app consumes far less power than typical monitoring apps.
Can the app record inside banking apps or password managers?
No. Android system security prevents screen recording inside financial apps, banking apps, password managers, and payment applications. This is a system-level restriction for user protection, not a limitation of our app. These apps cannot be monitored by any screen recording tool.
How much storage space do recordings use?
Storage usage depends on your settings. With default settings (720p screenshots at 50% quality every 5 seconds), expect approximately 500–800 MB per hour of active screen time. Video recording at default settings (720p, 25fps, 2Mbps) uses about 900 MB per hour. You can reduce file sizes by lowering resolution, reducing screenshot frequency, or decreasing video bitrate.
What if the device owner finds the app?
The app is designed for consent-based monitoring (parents monitoring their children's devices, employers monitoring company-owned phones with employee notification, or personal device tracking). We do not support unauthorized surveillance. If discovered, the app can be uninstalled from Settings → Applications → App Info, and the activation code cannot be reused.
Can I use the app on multiple devices?
Each activation code works on one device only. If you want to monitor multiple devices, you'll need to purchase a separate $12 activation code for each device. There's no limit to the number of devices you can monitor — just purchase additional codes as needed.
Pricing FAQs
Do I really only pay $12 once, or is this a trial?
You really pay just $12, one time, and get lifetime access to the app. There are no trials, no monthly fees, no annual renewals. $12 is the full price, including VAT.
Can I use my code on multiple devices?
No. Each activation code works on one device only. If you want to monitor 5 devices, you need to purchase 5 codes at $12 each ($60 total). This is still far cheaper than competitors — mSpy would charge $700 for 5 devices annually.
What happens if I uninstall the app?
If you uninstall the app, your activation code becomes invalid and cannot be reused — even on the same device. To reinstall, you must purchase a new code ($12). This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized transfers.
Will my app update automatically?
No. Your current version will continue working indefinitely, but new versions require a new purchase. If we release an update with new features, you can choose to purchase a new code ($12) to upgrade, or keep using your current version. Most users stay on the same version for years without issues.
Is there any way to get a refund?
Once you activate your code, sales are final and non-refundable. If you haven't activated your code yet and want a refund within 14 days of purchase, contact
contact@ar-tracker.com. We may issue a refund at our discretion. For the full policy, see our Refund Policy.
How long does my activation code stay valid?
Forever. Your code has no expiration date. You can buy it today and activate it next year. Once you activate it on a device, it's permanently tied to that device.
Can I transfer my license to a new device?
No. Activation codes are non-transferable. If you get a new device, you need a new code ($12). This prevents unauthorized sharing and reselling of codes.
Download & installation FAQs
Is it safe to install APK files?
Yes, when downloaded from trusted sources like this official website. APK is Android's standard app format. Always download directly from our site — never from third-party file-sharing sites or app repositories.
Why does my phone say "Install blocked"?
Android blocks installations from unknown sources by default for security. You need to enable "Install from Unknown Sources" in Settings → Security. On Android 8+, you'll be prompted to allow installation from your browser or file manager when you tap the APK.
Do I need to root my phone?
No rooting required. Activity Recorder & Tracker works on standard, unrooted Android devices. The app uses accessibility permissions instead of root access.
Can I download this on iPhone / iOS?
Currently, Activity Recorder & Tracker is Android-only. iOS has strict restrictions on screen recording and background monitoring that make this type of app impossible without jailbreaking. We are working to bring the app to iOS devices. Stay tuned to our new releases.
What if I lost my activation code?
Check your email inbox (and spam folder) for the email you received after payment. The subject line is "Your Activity Recorder & Tracker Activation Code." If you can't find it, email
contact@ar-tracker.com with your payment receipt.
How long does installation take?
Download takes 1–2 minutes on WiFi. Installation takes 30 seconds. Initial setup (entering code, granting permissions) takes 3–5 minutes. Total time from download to full operation: about 5–10 minutes. See the Installation Guide for step-by-step help.
Ready to start monitoring?
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✓ One-time payment
✓ Your cloud only
✓ Completely invisible
✓ No subscription