FamilyMap is a new tracking service from AT&T. It allows you to stalk watch over family members and loved ones.

The service tracks users in two ways: A-GPS (if your phone has one) or alternative location tracking technology (probably through triangulation via the cell sites where your phone is getting a signal from).

A-GPS is more accurate because the FamilyMap service will be able to track the receiver module inside your phone. It is said to be accurate within a few yards.

Alternative location tracking technology is less accurate because the FamilyMap service will track the location based on the cell sites the phone is currently acquiring a signal from. It is said to be accurate to within a few hundred yards.

The person you are tracking will be periodically notified that they are trackable, these is a random message which is usually sent out via text message once a month. If you are tracking your children, you have the option to notify him/her every time a

Stolen phones can also be tracked but the device has at be turned on and within AT&T’s network coverage area. But then, it would alert the thief via text message that he is locatable through the FamilyMap service. Now why would it do that? I certainly don’t know.

The first 30 days of usage is free, you will be charged $9.99 every month thereafter if you don’t choose to cancel the service. $9.99 lets you track two family members. Upgrading to $14.99 allows you to track up to 5 family members.

The AT&T FamilyMap service is not available for prepaid and Go Phones.

For answers to some frequently asked questions, click here.

[via PhoneArea]