What to do with an old smartphone

When you buy a new smartphone, the question arises what to do with the old one. You can simply throw away or sell the gadget, but there are many ways to give the device a second life. Smartphones have many functions that can be used.

Old smartphone while using a computer

First, let's talk about connecting the phone to the computer. The most popular solutions will be:

• Wireless controller;
• Remote computer control;
• Microphone or webcam;
• Second monitor.

IMPORTANT! To connect your old phone to a PC, you will need to install additional programs both on the phone itself and on the computer. But after installing additional software, often no more settings are required.

Wireless controller

To use your smartphone as a wireless controller, you can use the program Unified Remote. It will allow you to remotely control music and videos, switch songs or change the volume level. Device turns into a kind of computer control panel, like a TV remote control. You no longer have to go to the computer when watching a movie to change the volume.

Remote control

Remote computer control can be considered an extension of the wireless controller.

REFERENCE! The most convenient solution is provided by Google and its product “Chrome Remote Desktop”.

You need to install the application of the same name on your smartphone, and on your PC you just need to install the extension for the Google Chrome browser. Then log in using your regular Google account.

The program allows you to fully use your PC via your smartphone. You get the monitor image on the screen of your phone, control the mouse by simply sliding your finger across the screen, and an additional window opens for the keyboard.

Microphone or webcam

Smartphones often have good cameras and microphones, making them an excellent replacement for a microphone or webcam. By installing the application Wo Mic, you'll get a great microphone replacement and be able to chat with your friends without spending money on a new microphone.

Using Using an old smartphone as a webcam, you will achieve excellent images comparable to top-end webcams.

IMPORTANT! The smartphone connects to the PC via Wi-Fi, and for this, the devices must be on the same network and connected to the same router.

Screen

Another useful use for an old smartphone would be to turn it into an additional screen. You can display widgets or additional application windows on your phone screen, freeing the main screen from rarely used windows.

Other options for using an old smartphone

It is possible to use an old smartphone not only in conjunction with a computer, but also separately from it. The device will find its use both at home and in the car, for example:

• GPS navigator;
• DVR;
• IP camera or baby monitor;
• Expansion of the WI-FI signal area;
• Control console for a smart home;
• Alarm for the front door;
• Retro console for games.

Navigator

If you have a car, then a modern GPS navigator will be very convenient for traveling to unfamiliar places. For a GPS navigator, you will have to purchase an additional SIM card with Internet access. Then simply download online maps or specialized applications and use your phone as a navigator. A nice bonus will be voice control in some applications, which will allow you to build a route using only your voice.

DVR

The smartphone will be an excellent video recorder. An excellent camera that shoots in good quality will delight the car owner. There are also special applications for the DVR.

IP Camera

If you are worried about the safety of your apartment or child, an old smartphone can be turned into an IP camera or baby monitor. You can view what is happening in your home at any time, from anywhere with Internet access..

Access point

For large apartments, it is especially important to use a smartphone as an additional Internet access point. The phone will allow you to expand the Wi-Fi signal area.

If the signal is weak in part of the apartment, place the smartphone in the area between this place and the router. Connect your phone to Wi-Fi and enable the hotspot function on it.

Smart home control

It is convenient to use an old smartphone as a smart home control console. By installing a special application, you can control all smart devices in the house through it. You will have a single device that all family members and guests can use.

Signaling

An interesting application would be an alarm for the front door.The program works thanks to the built-in accelerometer in the phone, and emits a loud signal when the door is opened. The app can also send alarm messages to your main smartphone.

Toy

An old smartphone can still be a great toy for children and adults.

By installing an emulator of old consoles on it, you can organize evenings dedicated to retro games. This will be great entertainment for guests.