It’s easy to think of old smartphones as outdated once we upgrade to the latest model, but these little devices still have a lot of life left in them. Rather than selling, trading, or donating it right away, why not explore some fun and useful ways to keep your old smartphone around?
1. Keep It as a Backup Phone
Imagine your current phone suddenly breaks or needs repair—having a backup device could save the day. Even though it may not have the latest features, an old phone can still handle calls, texts, and the internet, keeping you connected when your main device is out of commission. It can also be a handy lifeline on camping trips or long hikes, providing an emergency backup when your primary device’s battery runs out.
2. Turn It Into a Dedicated Music Player
Remember when MP3 players were all the rage? You can recreate that experience by turning your old smartphone into a dedicated music player. Delete unnecessary apps, download your favourite music streaming app, and voila! You’ve got a device focused solely on music. This way, you won’t get interrupted by notifications, and you’ll have all your favourite tunes right at hand. Plus, offline downloads mean you can listen anytime, even if Wi-Fi isn’t available.
Using a dedicated GPS device in your car can be a real help—no more notifications interrupting directions. Your old phone can be that navigation device. Just mount it on the dashboard, load up your preferred navigation app, and download offline maps if you’ll be driving in areas with weak signals. It’s like having a mini-GPS that won’t drain your main phone’s battery.
4. Make It a Security Camera
If you want to keep an eye on things without shelling out for a fancy security camera, repurposing your old smartphone is a great option. Apps like AlfredCamera can help you turn it into a security camera with just a few taps. All you need to do is set it up wherever you want—by the front door, near windows, or in any area you’d like to monitor—and keep it plugged in so it can run non-stop.
5. Turn It Into a Smart Home Controller
If you’re juggling multiple smart devices at home, using an old smartphone as a central control hub can make managing them easier. Load it with your smart home apps, and you’ll have a dedicated device to control your lights, thermostat, or security system without cluttering your main phone. You can even mount it on the wall in a convenient spot, like the kitchen or living room, for easy access.
6. Set It Up as a Baby Monitor
Using an old phone as a baby monitor is a great money-saver for parents. Apps like Dormi or Cloud Baby Monitor can help you check on your baby from another room or even from outside the house. Place the phone near the crib, plug it in, and you’ve got a reliable way to watch over your little one.
7. Create a Digital Photo Frame
Why not turn your old phone into a digital photo frame? Load it with favourite photos, prop it up on a stand, and let it cycle through memories. Some apps even let you customize the slideshow. It’s a simple way to keep cherished photos in view, adding a personal touch to your desk or living space.
8. Use It as a Portable E-Reader
For those who love to read, your old phone can make a great e-reader. With apps like Kindle, you can download books and read on the go. It’s lightweight, portable, and a good way to catch up on reading without packing an extra device.
9. Make It a Travel Device
Heading out of town? An old smartphone can be loaded up with travel apps, maps, language guides, and reservations, giving you a dedicated travel assistant without risking your main device. You could even use it as a travel camera to capture photos without filling up your current phone’s storage.
10. Turn It Into a Gaming Console
If you enjoy mobile games, your old phone can be a designated gaming device. Delete unnecessary apps, download your favourite games, and you’re ready to play. It’s especially handy if kids or family members want to play games but you don’t want them using your main phone.
11. Use It as a Universal Remote
Your old smartphone can also become a universal remote for various devices around the house. Many smart TVs and streaming boxes have apps that let you control them from your phone, making it easy to swap multiple remotes for a single device that’s always nearby, make sure your device has an IR Sensor.
12. Experiment With Photography
If you love photography or want to explore new styles, using your old phone as a camera lets you get creative without worrying about storage space or settings on your main phone. Try new apps, edit photos, or create videos for social media—your backup device gives you the freedom to experiment.
13. Use It as a Wi-Fi Hotspot
Depending on your phone plan, you could use the old device as a Wi-Fi hotspot, providing internet for other devices when you’re on the go. This can be useful for work trips, gatherings, or any situation where reliable Wi-Fi is in demand.
14. Turn It Into a Hacking Device
If you’re curious about cybersecurity or ethical hacking, your old smartphone could be the perfect way to start exploring. By loading it with some open-source tools like Kali NetHunter, Fing, or WiFi Analyzer, you can practice network scanning, penetration testing, and even Wi-Fi analysis. The best part? You’ll keep your main phone safe from any accidental missteps, letting you experiment in a low-risk environment. Just remember to stay on the ethical side of hacking—these tools are meant for learning and enhancing security, not breaking into networks. It’s all about gaining useful skills while respecting privacy and the law!
Conclusion
Instead of stashing it in a drawer, your old smartphone can be put to good use in dozens of ways. From backup device to gaming console, there’s a practical (and often fun) use for any device—even if it’s a little outdated. And if none of these ideas work for you, handing it down to someone in need is always a worthwhile option.
