How to Use Your Old Phone as a Smart Device

Do you have an old smartphone lying around unused? Instead of letting it collect dust, you can turn it into a smart device for various purposes. With Wi-Fi, a touchscreen, camera, and sensors, an old phone can serve multiple functions even without a SIM card. Here’s how to make the most of your retired smartphone.

1. Turn It into a Home Security Camera
Your old phone can double as a surveillance camera for home security. All you need is a camera app that supports remote streaming or motion detection. Apps like Alfred Home Security Camera or Manything can help you monitor your home, pets, or even your baby in real time.
Resources:


Alfred Security App


Manything App

2. Use It as a Digital Photo Frame
With a decent screen and Wi-Fi access, your old phone can become a live photo slideshow. Apps like Google Photos or Fotoo can display your cloud albums, automatically updating with new pictures.
Resources:


Google Photos


Fotoo – Digital Photo Frame App



3. Make It a Smart Remote for Your Devices
Many smartphones come with infrared (IR) blasters, and even without IR, you can use apps to control smart TVs, streaming devices, and even ACs. Apps like Peel Smart Remote or Mi Remote turn your phone into a universal remote.
Resources:


Mi Remote


Peel Smart Remote

4. Create a Dedicated Music or Podcast Player
Clear out unnecessary apps and install your favorite music or podcast apps like Spotify, YouTube Music, or Pocket Casts. Connect the device to a Bluetooth speaker or keep it by your bedside as a smart audio station.
Resources:


Spotify


Pocket Casts

5. Use It as a Wi-Fi Hotspot Monitor or Network Tool
Tech-savvy users can repurpose old phones for network diagnostics. With apps like NetX or Fing, your old phone becomes a useful tool for monitoring Wi-Fi strength, tracking connected devices, or troubleshooting network issues.
Resources:


Fing Network Tools


NetX Network Scanner

Final Tips


Factory reset your phone before setting it up to clear old data.


Disable unused background apps for better performance.


Keep it plugged in for 24/7 use or invest in a long battery cable.

Old smartphones are still powerful gadgets. With a little creativity, they can add convenience to your daily life or even improve your home’s functionality. So before tossing that old phone away, consider giving it a smart new purpose.