We carry around a supercomputer in our pockets every single day. It plays games, streams media, looks up the weather, snaps photos, and analyzes data. Smartphones are fantastic devices, but better and newer models are continuously being developed. Although most of us can likely go years without upgrading, the temptation to spend more money on a newer, more fancy phone is constantly present due to the upgrade cycle.
What becomes of your old phone, then? If you decide not to trade it in, you can recoup part of that money by selling your used Android or iPhone phone. But you’ll likely wind up with an additional, outdated smartphone. Reuse the device instead of discarding it or allowing it to gather dust in a drawer! Even without a Wi-Fi connection, it can be a useful addition to the home. Some fun things you can do with your old smartphone are listed below.
Do It Yourself Security Camera
Convert an outdated phone that isn’t being used into a home security camera. Install AlfredCamera or another security camera app on both your old and new phones, then mount the old phone where it is needed. Just make sure the old phone has electricity. Even anything as basic as an automobile suction cup mount can be used. After that, log in with your current smartphone to see the feed from your previous device.
Hand It Over to the Children
Repurpose your old phone for your child if you’re not ready to buy them a separate one just yet. For the camera to function, cellular connectivity is not required. Once the phone is safe, connect it to Wi-Fi so your kids may play games, send and receive photos, browse the internet, download apps, and make and receive calls. Just make sure your screen protector and case are on.
Gaming System on the Go
Convert any spare smartphone you may have into a dedicated gaming system. You may download a ton of various mobile games for iPhone, Android, Apple Arcade, and even Netflix Games without having to worry about storage space. A Wi-Fi connection is all that is required. There are a lot more things you can do with game streaming, even if storage is limited. You may stream Xbox Game Pass titles to your phone using Xbox Cloud Gaming. PC users can play Steam games via Wi-Fi by using the Steam Link app. Mobile device gaming is possible for console gamers with the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S thanks to the Remote Play feature.
A device for video chat
As long as you have a good Wi-Fi connection, your old smartphone can act as a dedicated interface for video chats if you frequently communicate via Zoom, FaceTime, or any other video chat platform available these days. The kids may now call their friends without needing to borrow your phone, and you can host a virtual movie night without giving up your phone’s use—it will still be available for incoming calls and other notifications.
Cordless Webcam
You can use an outdated smartphone if your laptop breaks down or if your desktop computer lacks a webcam. You may use free software such as DroidCam and EpocCam to convert a phone into a computer webcam. To get started, simply download the app on both your computer and phone, then connect them.
Inexpensive Alarm Clock
Although smart displays like the Echo Show might be useful for time management, not everyone is in favor of having a microphone in their sleep. Instead, use the large display on your outdated smartphone to create an alarm clock that (ideally) won’t track you down. All you need to do is download an alarm clock app over WiFi or set an alarm using the Clock app on your iPhone or Android smartphone. After that, just put your phone on a stand, plug it in, and you’re ready to go. Only the iPhone 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max feature the always-on display, however, if your iPhone supports iOS 17, StandBy Mode will also allow you to use your device as a bedside clock.
Benefits of using an outdated phone? One approach to cut down on screen time before bed is to keep your actual phone out of reach from the bedside table. Furthermore, it’s simple to take the device off the stand and carry it around while you snag a little extra shut-eye if you’re a morning snoozer.
An extra TV remote
Although the remote control that comes with your media streaming device is small and easily misplaced, it does exist. You may likely misplace the remote control for your Apple TV, Chromecast, Fire TV Stick, or Roku, if you possess one of these devices. Use your phone instead of buying a new one.
Every gadget has its mobile app, which you can download to your old device, link it to your account, and voila! Your remote control will function once more. This can also be useful for live TV streaming services like YouTube TV and if your Apple TV control stops working.
An Alternative E-Book Reader
Use your phone if you enjoy reading comics but don’t want to buy an e-reader. Get your preferred ebook reader app or the Amazon Kindle app, then connect your free books, library loans, and purchases. Comic book readers have access to digital comics available from Amazon, Marvel, and DC, as well as monthly subscription programs like DC Universe Infinite and Marvel Unlimited. Try the Webtoon app, which is vertically scrolling and digital-first. It’s something different.
Committed Media Participant
Convert an outdated smartphone into a dedicated video streaming device. Better still, utilize it to access your preferred podcast apps and music streaming services to listen to books, music, and podcasts. While doing chores around the house or working out at home, place it on a charging stand, pair it with a Bluetooth speaker, and plug in some wireless headphones. Before leaving the house, you may also download Spotify music or movies for on-the-go entertainment that won’t drain your battery or data plan. It will feel exactly like using an iPod once more.
911 Emergency Phone
All phones must be able to contact 911 by US law, even if they don’t have a SIM card or an active data plan. This implies that, if it has power, outdated phones can still make a connection with emergency services. The call needs to be able to proceed through even in situations when there would typically be restricted service. Remember, though, that this phone needs to be 4G because phones that were impacted by the 2022 3G shutdown won’t be able to connect.
Even though you most likely always have your phone with you, it never hurts to have a backup device on hand. In the event of an emergency, for example, you may keep an inactive phone in the car. Another option is to give the defunct device to an elderly relative who might not have a smartphone but could utilize a simple means of getting in touch with emergency services in case of need.