This tracking method require the installation of third-party software on the phone. These programs can use one of two methods to track a cell phone: Using the cellular ID or using GPS satellite tracking. Some can use a combination of the two methods for more precise tracking.
The methodology used for handset-based cell-phone tracking depends in large part on the capabilities of the phone. Some cell phones may have limited functionality, or some may experience decreased performance if a handset-based tracker is installed.
If a handset-based tracker is installed without the user's knowledge, decreased performance or features not working may tip off the unauthorized software.
In general, handset-based cell-phone trackers are more precise than network-based trackers. They can find a location faster and with a smaller margin of error.
However, you have to install the software in order to use handset-based trackers, and not everyone wants to install third-party software on their phones. You also likely have to pay a monthly service fee for these trackers.
This is one of the most popular types of cell-phone trackers, and many companies offer these products. Here are a few of the more popular handset-based cell-phone trackers:
Spy Bubble (http://www.spybubble.com/cell-phone-spy.php)
MobiStealth (http://www.mobistealth.com/cell-phone-tracker)
GPS Mapper: http://sourceforge.net/projects/gpsmapper/
Mologogo (http://www.mologogo.com/)
Buddyway (http://www.buddyway.com/)
Mobile Spy (http://getmobilesoftware.com/)
Be sure to investigate the reputation of any software you install on your phone. There have been reports of some tracking software being used to collect personal data from your phone. If you download from a trusted source, you can be sure that the software is only tracking the data you authorize.