If you have an old iPhone sitting at home, don’t let it gather dust. There are numerous creative ways to give your aging device a new lease on life. From transforming it into a home security camera to repurposing it as a secondary phone or webcam, here are some inventive ideas to make the most of your old iPhone.
1. Transform Your iPhone into a Home Security Camera
You can repurpose your old iPhone into a security camera using apps like AtHome Video Streamer. This cost-effective solution allows you to convert one or more old iPhones into baby monitors, pet cameras, or even home security cameras. Simply install the app on your old phone, set it up, attach an adjustable tripod or stand to keep your phone in place, and ensure your iPhone stays connected to power to avoid running out of battery.
2. Use Your Old iPhone as a Secondary Phone
Disconnect your old iPhone from iCloud, disable iMessage, and remove unnecessary applications to prevent unwanted notifications and potential device slowdowns. Transform it into a minimalistic device with essential apps such as games, news, podcasts, or alarms for relaxation or entertainment.
3. Utilize Your Old iPhone as a Webcam for Mac
Even older iPhones often have better camera quality than many webcams. If your iPhone can run iOS 17, utilize Continuity Camera to turn it into a high-quality webcam for your virtual meetings on platforms like Zoom or Google Meet. To do this, you’ll need to add a MagSafe mount to securely position your iPhone.
4. Convert Your iPhone into a Digital Clock, Weather Station, or Calendar
If your iPhone supports iOS 17, leverage the StandBy feature to transform it into a digital clock, weather station, or office calendar when it’s not in use. Simply place your iPhone on your desk with the Weather app or Calendar app open for added functionality. If iOS 17 isn’t available, explore alternatives to achieve a similar result.
5. Rediscover Retro Gaming on Your Old iPhone
Browse your iCloud purchase history to locate old games that may no longer be available in the App Store. Re-download these classics onto your old iPhone and relive the nostalgia. Visit the “Purchased” section in the App Store to rediscover games you’ve previously enjoyed but are no longer accessible.
Your old iPhone harbors untapped potential beyond obsolescence. Let your imagination run wild, and you’ll surely discover innovative ways to breathe new life into it. Even if you think older iPhone models are obsolete, there are countless ways to reinvigorate them, as demonstrated in these ideas. Don’t let your old iPhone go to waste; give it a new purpose and make the most of its capabilities.