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    Top 15 Things Anyone Can Do With Their Old Smartphone

    Your old smartphone may not be your daily device anymore, but it can still solve real problems. Whether you turn it into a home camera, travel navigator, family video screen, or recycled resource, the best choice is the one that keeps it useful, secure, and out of landfill for as long as possible.
    13 Mins Read

    Before You Begin: Prepare the Phone Safely

    Before reusing, selling, donating, or recycling an old phone, start with a basic privacy and safety reset: back up photos, contacts, messages, and files; transfer any authenticator apps or banking access to your new phone; sign out of cloud, email, banking, social, and app-store accounts; unpair Bluetooth accessories; remove the SIM card and any memory card; then perform a factory reset. If the phone will be reused at home, install available system updates, delete apps you do not need, set a strong passcode, turn off notifications that may reveal private information, and use a safe charger in a well-ventilated location.

    1. Turn It Into a Home Security Camera

    An old smartphone can make a simple Wi-Fi security camera for a hallway, front door area, garage, baby room, or pet space.

    Apps to try

    • AlfredCamera
    • AtHome Camera
    • WardenCam
    • AirDroid Personal
    • IP Webcam for Android
    • Presence Video Security

    You will need

    • Old smartphone
    • Your current phone or tablet
    • Wi-Fi connection
    • Charger and cable
    • Phone stand, tripod, or wall mount

    Steps

    1. Install the same camera app on both phones.
    2. Create or sign in to the same account on both devices.
    3. Set the old phone as the camera device.
    4. Set your current phone as the viewer device.
    5. Test the live feed, motion alerts, and sound.
    6. Mount the phone where it has a clear view and steady Wi-Fi.

    Practical tips

    • Keep the phone indoors unless it is protected from weather.
    • Use a safe charger if the phone will stay plugged in.
    • Avoid pointing the camera at private areas.
    • Lower motion sensitivity if you receive too many alerts.

    2. Use It as a Baby Monitor or Pet Cam

    If you want a low-cost way to monitor a sleeping baby, a puppy, or a room while you are nearby, your old phone can stream video and audio over Wi-Fi.

    Apps to try

    • AlfredCamera
    • BabyCam
    • Dormi Baby Monitor
    • Cloud Baby Monitor
    • AtHome Camera
    • WardenCam

    You will need

    • Old smartphone
    • Viewing device
    • Wi-Fi connection
    • Charger and cable
    • Safe stand placed out of reach

    Steps

    1. Install the monitoring app on both devices.
    2. Sign in or pair the devices using the app’s instructions.
    3. Set the old phone as the camera.
    4. Place it where it can see the cot, pet bed, crate, or room.
    5. Check audio, video, alerts, and charging before use.

    Practical tips

    • Keep cords away from children and pets.
    • Do not place the phone inside a cot or crate.
    • Use it as a helpful extra tool rather than a certified medical or safety monitor.

    3. Make It a Dedicated Music Player

    Load the old phone with music, podcasts, audiobooks, meditation tracks, and offline playlists so it becomes a dedicated audio device.

    Apps to try

    • Spotify
    • Apple Music
    • YouTube Music
    • Amazon Music
    • Audible
    • Pocket Casts
    • Apple Podcasts
    • VLC Media Player

    You will need

    • Headphones or Bluetooth speaker
    • Music, podcast, or audiobook app
    • Storage space
    • Wi-Fi for downloads

    Steps

    1. Delete apps and files you no longer need.
    2. Install your preferred audio apps.
    3. Download playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks for offline use.
    4. Pair Bluetooth headphones or a speaker.
    5. Turn on airplane mode when you only need offline playback.

    Practical tips

    • Create playlists for workouts, driving, sleep, or cooking.
    • Keep the phone charged where you use it most.
    • Use offline downloads to save battery and avoid interruptions.

    4. Create a Portable Gaming Device

    Install games that run offline or over Wi-Fi and pair the phone with a Bluetooth controller if supported.

    Apps and services to try

    • Apple Arcade
    • Google Play Games
    • Xbox Game Pass
    • GeForce NOW
    • RetroArch
    • Minecraft
    • Stardew Valley
    • Monument Valley

    You will need

    • Old smartphone
    • Game apps
    • Wi-Fi connection
    • Charger
    • Optional Bluetooth controller

    Steps

    1. Clear storage space on the phone.
    2. Install games or a cloud gaming app.
    3. Download offline games where available.
    4. Pair a controller in Bluetooth settings if you have one.
    5. Disable in-app purchases or set parental controls if children will use it.

    Practical tips

    • Use Google Family Link, Apple Screen Time, or Microsoft Family Safety for child access.
    • Keep the phone in a protective case.
    • Use a power bank for longer gaming sessions.

    5. Turn It Into an E-Reader

    With reading apps and downloaded books, your old phone can become a pocket-sized e-reader.

    Apps to try

    • Kindle
    • Apple Books
    • Google Play Books
    • Kobo
    • Libby
    • BorrowBox
    • Adobe Acrobat Reader
    • Pocket

    You will need

    • E-book or library app
    • Downloaded books, articles, manuals, or PDFs
    • Charger

    Steps

    1. Install one or two reading apps.
    2. Sign in to your book, library, or cloud account.
    3. Download books, articles, manuals, or PDFs over Wi-Fi.
    4. Increase text size and enable dark mode or night shift.
    5. Put reading apps on the first home screen and remove distracting apps.

    Practical tips

    • Use it for commuting, bedtime reading, saved articles, or study notes.
    • Add an anti-glare screen protector if you read outdoors.
    • Turn on airplane mode to improve battery life.

    6. Use It as an Offline GPS Navigator

    Download offline maps while connected to Wi-Fi, then keep the old phone in your car, bike bag, or travel kit as a backup navigator.

    Apps to try

    • Google Maps
    • Apple Maps on iOS 17 or later
    • HERE WeGo
    • MAPS.ME
    • Organic Maps
    • OsmAnd

    You will need

    • Maps app with offline map support
    • Car mount or bike mount
    • Charging cable
    • Power bank or car charger

    Steps

    1. Open the maps app while connected to Wi-Fi.
    2. Download the city, region, or route you need for offline use.
    3. Save key places such as home, hotel, hospital, mechanic, or campsite.
    4. Test directions with mobile data turned off.
    5. Mount the phone safely before driving or riding.

    Practical tips

    • Offline navigation is best for driving directions.
    • Live traffic, public transport updates, and rerouting may need internet.
    • Download maps before leaving home.

    7. Build a Smart Home Control Panel

    Mount the old phone near the kitchen, entryway, or living room and use it to control smart lights, speakers, thermostats, plugs, cameras, or routines.

    Apps to try

    • Google Home
    • Apple Home
    • Amazon Alexa
    • Samsung SmartThings
    • Philips Hue
    • TP-Link Tapo or Kasa
    • Tuya Smart
    • Home Assistant

    You will need

    • Smart home apps
    • Wi-Fi connection
    • Wall mount, stand, or charging dock
    • Charger
    • Simple lock screen

    Steps

    1. Install only the smart home apps you actually use.
    2. Sign in with a limited or shared household account if possible.
    3. Create favourites or shortcuts for common actions.
    4. Place the phone where family members can reach it.
    5. Keep notifications and personal apps off the device.

    Practical tips

    • Label the home screen clearly.
    • Avoid storing private email, photos, or banking apps on a shared control panel.
    • Use a short charging cable for a tidier setup.

    8. Convert It Into a Digital Photo Frame

    Place the phone on a stand, connect it to power, and run a slideshow of favourite photos.

    Apps to try

    • Google Photos
    • Apple Photos
    • Amazon Photos
    • Flickr
    • Fotoo for Android
    • LiveFrame
    • Built-in gallery slideshow

    You will need

    • Selected photo album
    • Phone stand
    • Charger

    Steps

    1. Create a dedicated album called “Photo Frame.”
    2. Add only the photos you want displayed.
    3. Open slideshow mode in your photo app or gallery app.
    4. Set the screen timeout to stay awake if available.
    5. Lower brightness and place the phone somewhere stable.

    Practical tips

    • Rotate family photos, travel memories, artwork, quotes, or reminders.
    • Avoid leaving the phone in direct sunlight.
    • Use a low-profile cable for a cleaner look.

    9. Make It a Dedicated Video Calling Device

    Set the old phone up with video calling apps and leave it in a convenient place for family calls, remote lessons, telehealth appointments, or team catch-ups.

    Apps to try

    • WhatsApp
    • FaceTime
    • Zoom
    • Microsoft Teams
    • Google Meet
    • Skype
    • Facebook Messenger
    • Signal

    You will need

    • Wi-Fi connection
    • Video calling app
    • Phone stand
    • Headphones or speaker
    • Relevant account signed in

    Steps

    1. Install the app used by the people you call most.
    2. Sign in and add favourite contacts.
    3. Test the camera, microphone, speaker, and Wi-Fi.
    4. Put the app shortcut on the home screen.
    5. Keep the phone charged in a quiet, well-lit spot.

    Practical tips

    • Remove unnecessary notifications.
    • Protect the account with a passcode.
    • Use a ring light or window light for clearer calls.

    10. Use It as a Webcam

    Many old phones have cameras that are better than basic laptop webcams.

    Apps to try

    • DroidCam
    • EpocCam
    • Camo
    • Iriun Webcam
    • iVCam
    • Continuity Camera for compatible iPhones and Macs

    You will need

    • Old smartphone
    • Computer
    • Wi-Fi or USB cable
    • Webcam app
    • Stable mount or tripod

    Steps

    1. Install the webcam app on the phone.
    2. Install the matching desktop software on your computer if required.
    3. Connect by USB or make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi.
    4. Open Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, or another meeting app.
    5. Choose the phone camera as the video source and test before the call.

    Practical tips

    • Place the phone at eye level.
    • Use good lighting.
    • Keep the phone plugged in.
    • Close background apps for smoother video.

    11. Turn It Into an Alarm Clock or Bedside Hub

    Use the old phone as a clock, gentle alarm, sleep-sound machine, weather display, or bedtime audiobook player.

    Apps to try

    • Apple Clock
    • Google Clock
    • Sleep Cycle
    • Alarmy
    • Calm
    • Headspace
    • Insight Timer
    • Rain Rain

    You will need

    • Charging dock or stand
    • Alarm or clock app
    • Optional sleep-sound app
    • Reliable charger

    Steps

    1. Delete distracting apps.
    2. Set recurring alarms and labels.
    3. Enable do-not-disturb or sleep focus mode.
    4. Add weather, calendar, or sleep-sound widgets if useful.
    5. Place it across the room if you want help getting up.

    Practical tips

    • Use this setup to keep your main phone out of the bedroom.
    • Lower brightness at night.
    • Use a short cable to reduce bedside clutter.

    12. Create a Kitchen Helper

    Keep recipes, timers, shopping lists, conversion calculators, and cooking videos on the old phone.

    Apps to try

    • Paprika Recipe Manager
    • Whisk/Samsung Food
    • Tasty
    • Yummly
    • AnyList
    • Bring!
    • Google Keep
    • Microsoft OneNote
    • YouTube

    You will need

    • Recipe or notes apps
    • Wi-Fi connection
    • Washable stand or protective case
    • Charging spot away from water and heat

    Steps

    1. Save your favourite recipes and shopping lists.
    2. Add shortcuts for timers, conversions, and meal planning.
    3. Download key recipes for offline use.
    4. Enable voice assistant features with Siri or Google Assistant if useful.
    5. Place the phone on a stand away from the sink and stove.

    Practical tips

    • Use a screen protector to handle fingerprints and splashes.
    • Keep the device dedicated to cooking.
    • Use voice commands when your hands are messy.

    13. Use It for Learning and Experiments

    An old device is perfect for language learning, coding practice, photography experiments, app testing, or teaching children responsible device use.

    Apps to try

    • Duolingo
    • Khan Academy
    • Coursera
    • edX
    • SoloLearn
    • Mimo
    • ScratchJr
    • Lightroom Mobile
    • Snapseed
    • Google Family Link
    • Apple Screen Time
    • Microsoft Family Safety

    You will need

    • Wi-Fi connection
    • Learning apps
    • Optional parental controls
    • Separate account if children will use it

    Steps

    1. Factory reset the phone if needed.
    2. Create a separate learning or child account.
    3. Install only the learning tools you want.
    4. Download lessons, tutorials, or practice files for offline use.
    5. Set app limits, purchase restrictions, and content controls before handing it over.

    Practical tips

    • Use it for trial apps or photography practice.
    • Keep important personal data off the device.
    • Add a rugged case if children will use it.

    14. Keep It as an Emergency Backup Phone

    Charge the old phone every few months and store it with a cable in your car, travel bag, or emergency kit.

    Apps and tools to prepare

    • Google Maps or Apple Maps offline maps
    • Apple Health Medical ID
    • Android Emergency Information
    • Notes app
    • OneDrive or Google Drive
    • Adobe Acrobat Reader
    • Offline copies of insurance or travel documents

    You will need

    • Old smartphone
    • Charger and cable
    • Power bank if possible
    • Downloaded emergency information

    Steps

    1. Charge the phone and confirm it powers on.
    2. Add emergency contacts and medical information.
    3. Download maps, PDFs, travel documents, and key phone numbers.
    4. Store it in a dry, cool place with a cable.
    5. Check and recharge it every few months.

    Practical tips

    • The phone may still work over Wi-Fi.
    • It may be able to call emergency services where compatible networks are available.
    • Do not rely on it as your only emergency communication device.

    15. Sell, Donate, Trade In, or Recycle It Responsibly

    If you do not need the phone, let someone else benefit from it.

    Services to consider

    • Apple Trade In
    • Samsung Trade-Up
    • eBay
    • Facebook Marketplace
    • Gumtree
    • Donation programs

    You will need

    • Backup of your data
    • Original charger or accessories if available
    • Proof of ownership if selling
    • Trusted trade-in, donation, or recycling option

    Steps

    1. Back up your data.
    2. Sign out of Apple ID, Google Account, Samsung Account, banking apps, and social apps.
    3. Remove the SIM and memory card.
    4. Perform a factory reset.
    5. Clean the phone and photograph it if selling.
    6. Describe the condition honestly or recycle it if it is not usable.

    Practical tips

    • A working phone is usually better reused than recycled.
    • A broken or unsafe device should go through a reputable e-waste or mobile phone recycling program.
    • Do not place phones or lithium batteries in household bins.

    Recommended Accessories to Make Reuse Easier

    The right accessory can make an old phone feel purpose-built instead of improvised. Start with inexpensive basics such as a stable stand, longer charging cable, protective case, or power bank, then add more specialised accessories only if the phone becomes part of your daily routine.

    Reuse purposeUseful accessoriesWhy they help
    Security camera, baby monitor, or pet camPhone tripod, flexible gooseneck mount, wall mount, long charging cable, smart plugKeeps the phone steady, improves the viewing angle, and supports reliable long-term power.
    Music playerBluetooth speaker, wired headphones, Bluetooth receiver, armband, car AUX cable, USB-C or Lightning audio adapterMakes the phone easier to use during workouts, cooking, driving, gardening, or outdoor listening.
    Portable gaming deviceBluetooth controller, controller phone clip, grip case, cooling fan, power bankImproves comfort, control, battery life, and heat management during longer gaming sessions.
    E-readerLightweight case, anti-glare screen protector, PopSocket-style grip, small reading standMakes long reading sessions more comfortable and reduces glare and hand strain.
    Offline GPS navigatorCar mount, bike mount, magnetic dashboard mount, car charger, power bankKeeps the phone visible, secure, and powered while travelling.
    Smart home control panelWall mount, charging dock, magnetic mount, short charging cableTurns the phone into a neat, fixed household control screen.
    Digital photo frameDesk stand, wireless charging stand if supported, low-profile charging cableKeeps the phone upright and powered for slideshows without clutter.
    Video calling or webcamTripod, phone clamp, ring light, USB cable, lapel microphoneImproves camera angle, lighting, stability, connection quality, and audio clarity.
    Alarm clock or bedside hubCharging dock, dimmable stand, short cable, compact Bluetooth speakerMakes the setup tidier and more useful for alarms, sleep sounds, weather, and bedtime audio.
    Kitchen helperWashable case, screen protector, phone stand, stylus, magnetic fridge mountProtects the phone from splashes and fingerprints while keeping recipes easy to see.
    Learning deviceRugged case, screen protector, kids’ headphones, stylus, storage pouchMakes the phone more durable and comfortable for children, study, drawing, and experiments.
    Emergency backup phonePower bank, car charger, waterproof pouch, spare cable, SIM ejector toolHelps keep the phone charged, protected, and ready for travel, outages, or emergencies.

    Quick Decision Guide

    • If the phone still works well: sell it, trade it in, donate it, or turn it into a security camera, media player, GPS unit, or video calling device.
    • If the battery is weak: use it only for low-power roles such as an e-reader, photo frame, learning device, or bedroom clock.
    • If the screen is cracked but usable: consider smart home control, music playback, or kitchen use with a stand.
    • If it no longer powers on: recycle it through a trusted phone or e-waste recycling program.
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