10 Creative Ways to Repurpose An Old Android Phone

Old smartphones are essentially fully portable computers with batteries, Wi-Fi, and high-quality screens. Instead of leaving them in a drawer, you can put that hardware to work. Here are 10 tried-and-tested ways to give your old device a new life.

1. High-Quality PC Webcam

Modern phone cameras often outperform budget webcams. You can link your phone to your PC via USB or Wi-Fi using apps like DroidCam. This setup gives you the flexibility to position the camera anywhere without worrying about short cables.

2. GPS Vehicle Tracker

Most Android phones have "Google Find My Device" built-in. By leaving an old phone (with a data plan) hidden in your car or motorhome, you can track its location via your Google account. To maximize battery, disable Bluetooth/NFC and pair it with a power bank.

3. Home Security/CCTV System

Apps like Alfred Camera turn your old phone into a motion-detecting security camera. It works like professional systems with playback history and schedules. Since it uses the camera for motion detection rather than infrared, it can even work through window glass.

4. Baby or Pet Monitor

Using an app like Simple Nanny, you can set up one device as a monitor and the old phone as the camera. These apps often include noise detection notifications and the ability to play lullabies remotely.

5. Wireless PC System Monitor

Monitor your PC's temperatures and performance wirelessly using Remote System Monitor. You can create a custom dashboard filled with widgets to keep an eye on your hardware while gaming.

6. Dedicated Retro Gaming Machine

Turn your phone into a portable console by adding a Bluetooth controller and installing emulators from the Play Store. It can also handle local streaming via Steam Link or PlayStation Remote Play.

7. Digital Stream Deck

The Touch Portal app lets you create single-touch buttons on your phone to launch PC applications or control OBS wirelessly. This is a great budget alternative for streamers or video editors.

8. Dedicated Dash Cam

Using Droid Dashcam, your old phone can record your drives with features like loop mode, auto-start on power detection, and G-shock impact locking for insurance purposes.

9. Low-Cost VR Headset

Pair your phone with a mounting headset like Google Cardboard to experience VR videos and games at a fraction of the price of dedicated headsets.

10. Budget B-Roll Camera

For content creators, an old phone is an excellent secondary camera to capture different angles while filming.