Ten years have barely passed since the first smartphone was launched, yet it seems as if the phones have been around for so long. With technology around smartphones always developing, most of us have upgraded and replaced their phones a number of times. Many of us may have even made use of a Cricket promo code or two to help us get a great deal on our upgrades. However, even though you would not wish to ever use your old phone, there is no need to put it in a drawer and never look at it again. Value can still be earned from the device. Do not waste the old phone’ s potential. The following are some of the fun and useful ways of recycling your old Android or iOS Devices.
Security Camera
There are numerous options to exploit when looking for a home security camera. However, what is the motivation behind purchasing an expensive camera when you own an old smartphone that can work equally well? All a security camera has is a good video camera with a good network connection. I am certain that your old smartphone has such features. With this in mind, it is clear that an old smartphone can make a good home camera; it offers a perfect opportunity to watch your baby sleep, keep an eye on your property, or check your pet while you work.
There are a number of apps that enable an old phone to function well as a security camera. Most of the apps are available for both iOS and Android phones. The apps enable the phone to send camera feeds to another phone connected to the network. There is no limit to the maximum number of phones that can be connected to the network. Moreover, the apps support motion detection recording, low light filter, and walkie-talkie features.
In order to ensure that your phone rests securely while you are away, consider purchasing an adjustable phone stand. A stand will ensure that the camera remains in place and does not fall or move.
A Smart Home Centre
Given the proliferation of devices such as Amazon’s Fire Stick, Google Chromecast, and Smart TVs, tossing media from one gadget to another has been simplified. Additionally, with home devices such as Nest and Hue becoming quite common, using your old phone as means through which you can access your smart home is a good idea. Moreover, using the phone as a media streaming centre is relatively easy.
If your old phone is too old, consider clearing off unnecessary apps. Thereafter, head over to Google Play Store or iTunes to get your desired apps. Connect your old phone to your smartphone device, and you will be ready to control your smart home. As a bonus, if your phone was equipped with an IR emitter, you can download the appropriate TV remote app and turn your old phone into a remote controller.
A GPS Unit for the Bicycle, Hiking, or Car
An old tablet or phone can make a good alternative to expensive GPS trackers when combined with the right charger and holder. Most smartphones do not need phone signals or data connection to use GPS. This is, therefore, one of the few functions that your phone can perform with a SIM card or Wi-Fi. Your phone can, therefore, function effectively as a GPS tracker.
The power in your phone is not good enough to match dedicated GPS trackers. However, your old phone can still work effectively enough to make sure that you do not have to waste your new phone’s battery capacity during navigation.
As a start, clear all unnecessary apps from your gadget, and install appropriate navigation apps. Remember to download map areas that you will likely need. Finally, attach the phone to a car holder or bicycle mount.
However, this idea has some shortcomings. The device will guzzle power at a high rate. It is important that you do not use your old phone as your only navigation tool if you are headed out into the wild.