10 Ways to Use Your Old Smartphones

Do you have an old smartphone just wasting away and gathering dust in your cupboard? Well, what are you waiting for? Get it out and put it to use! Keeping up with all of the latest technology can be challenging. If you are one to get a new device every time an updated version comes out, this is the list for you!

1. Use it as a navigation system:
I know I hate it when I have to use my phone for GPS and then not have a battery left once I get there. UGH! Instead of getting rid of your old phone save it for road trips! Get a cheap phone mount and leave it in the car. Easy enough.

2. Turn it into a security camera:
There are a ton of FREE apps that can convert your smartphone into a wireless security camera. Try IP Webcam for Android or iVigilo Smartcam for iOS. These awesome apps use your phone’s camera to stream live video that can be viewed in any web browser, any video player that supports streaming or on another smartphone/tablet.

3. Use it for a Music Player:
With all of your data removed the memory should be huge and can hold tons of songs. Download or stream all of your favorite songs for a cookout, for cleaning the house or any other time you need to rock out.

4. Make it your baby monitor:
Those things can get pretty pricy! If you have an old smartphone laying around why not just use that instead? The webcam function also makes the phone usable as a simple way to keep an eye on your little one. Mount it to the wall over the crib or elsewhere in the house, and you’ll always see what’s going on.

5. Use as a Recipe Book:
Having a small handheld device in the kitchen instead of a stack of recipes in books or a binder filled with papers, right? There are a ton of FREE apps that are filled with delicious recipes. This makes life less cluttered!

6. A small portable alarm clock:
Pretty much all smartphones have an alarm feature as part of the phone’s clock function. Also, you can add expanded alarm features such as a snooze button or different alarm tones for multiple people.

7. Make it a Homework Helper:
Kids love using technology! Why not download a ton of learning and homework helping apps and make learning fun again. There are thousands of apps you can get to fit your child’s personal needs.

8. Load it up with Movies and Games for a Trip:
If you have ever taken a road trip or flown with kids, you know it’s not an easy task. Having a busy bag with snacks, coloring books and anything else that will keep your kids occupied. This should include your old device with their favorite movies and games. Even if it’s a last resort.

9. Use it in case of an emergency:
All smartphones have the ability to call 911 even if they don’t have active service. You might have to use your current phone to keep up with the weather or anything else going around you. With no power you might not be able to charge your phone. You can have your old phone on hand just in case of an emergency.

10. Use it as an E-Reader:
Just like MP3 players, very few people buy dedicated E-Readers anymore. Instead of taking a battery hit on your current smartphone while you’re reading your favourite novel, you can use your old smartphone or tablet as an E-Reader. You can get a FREE app on Amazon and start downloading any of the books you want. Super easy to do.