tracker

Tracker is a term used to describe a device, software, or system designed to monitor and report the status and location of a person, object, or process. Trackers collect data via sensors and communication networks and present it to users or other systems.

Location trackers include GPS devices in vehicles, asset tags, and personal safety devices. They are used in logistics, fleet management, and research to monitor position and movement.

Fitness trackers, such as wearable watches and bands, monitor activity, heart rate, sleep, and other biometrics. Data is synced to mobile apps for analysis, coaching, and motivation.

Software trackers manage tasks and issues in projects. Issue trackers and bug trackers help teams create, assign, and monitor work items, workflows, and progress.

Web trackers employ cookies and scripts to collect usage data for analytics and advertising, raising privacy concerns and regulatory attention.

The term also appears in culture and media and as a general description in science and technology, where it denotes any system designed to follow a target.