It is obvious that recently smartphones have stopped developing as actively as a few years ago. That is why today the issue of using an old gadget after buying a new one becomes especially relevant. A device that has been in use for two, three, or even four years is probably tired, has ceased to please and has not worked as long as before, but it can still be useful in a number of use cases. Of course, it can be given to one of the relatives, left as a backup “tube” or sold on the secondary market. But not only.
Leave as a functional external battery
Will go out not only to charge something, but also to use the flashlight
This does not apply to Apple mobile devices, but many Android smartphones can be used as external batteries for other gadgets. Usually, this feature is valid for devices that are equipped with a USB-C connection interface. However, it is important to individually specify this nuance for each specific case. Interestingly, it is Android smartphones from the middle price segment that are most often equipped with sufficiently capacious batteries. The fact is that these are usually based on not the most energy efficient chips, so in attempts to achieve sane autonomy, manufacturers simply have no other choice.
Try to act as a webcam for communication over the Internet
You will get better image quality
Today, hardly anyone needs to explain how important a high-quality picture is for group video chats. A few years ago, no one really cared about this, but in the realities of the pandemic, this issue continues to be incredibly relevant. You can get a high-end webcam to improve the quality of your own video during video meetings. However, a smartphone, which is several years old, may also be suitable for its role. It is likely that he has no less high-quality filming module than fresh specialized devices. The only thing is, you have to install additional software.
- iVCam for iPhone + Windows;
- EpocCam for iPhone + Mac or Windows;
- DroidCam for Android + Windows;
- Iriun for Android + Mac or Windows.
- To this topic: How to use your phone as a webcam – via USB or Wi-Fi
Turn into a surveillance camera for your home or office
There is usually no need to purchase additional equipment
The need to monitor your home or office may appear at any time. Elderly relatives or small children cannot remain unattended in a living room – it is likely that even pets will have to be watched. As for the area that is used for professional purposes, remote monitoring in this case may be necessary for both employees and clients. Moreover, repairs can take place in any room, and arranging remote monitoring of the builders is also far from the most disastrous undertaking. But the main thing is that all these scenarios can be realized not only with the help of a special webcam. An old smartphone with special software will do just fine.
iPhone:
- Alfred;
- AtHome Camera;
- AtHome Video Streamer;
- WardenCam;
- Manything.
Android:
- Alfred;
- AtHome Camera;
- AtHome Video Streamer;
- WardenCam360;
- Manything.
Use as a multimedia system for a personal car
Smartphone is a navigation system and video with music
Not all cars are equipped with multifunctional multimedia systems with large color screens that support not only audio and video playback, but also navigation. Of course, for all this it is quite possible to use the main smartphone, but, as practice shows, this is far from always convenient for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is usually not very appropriate to discharge the main “tube”. Second, she may be constantly busy with voice calls using a headset. Thirdly, if the second driver is behind the wheel, it will be better for him to use a separate device, and not the owner’s personal smartphone. In general, in all these cases, the old mobile device will become a real salvation.
Leave as external storage for personal data
The mobile device will also become an external card reader
Today, the vast majority of data is in cloud storage, so there is absolutely no point in talking about the advisability of regularly carrying an external drive with you for storing or exchanging information. However, if the old smartphone is used as a backup “handset” and is regularly in the bag, it can also be turned into an impromptu “flash drive”. A gadget based on the Android operating system together with Windows can be used without any auxiliary software. On a Mac, you need to install Android File Transfer to interact with it. For the iPhone, data can be transferred via a browser to the free Documents app.
Convert to digital photo frame or desk clock
You only need a stand for it or a cover with a leg
An iPhone or Android smartphone can easily take a place on your desktop or bedside table as a digital frame, alarm clock or calendar. For this, it is quite possible to use the corresponding standard applications. The main thing is to perform two operations. First, you need to get a stable power source, as well as a separate stand or case with a special leg. Secondly, in the screen settings, you need to disable the automatic device lock function – to ensure that the gadget is always active. After that, he will begin a new interesting life – albeit in a new role.
Use as a geotag for a car and not only
You can coolly follow the position of the gadget via the Internet
The smartphone can also be used as a multifunctional geotag for a car. To do this, it must be connected to the “Locator” systems in the case of Apple, as well as to Google’s Android gadgets search system. After that, you need to hide the device in a secluded place somewhere under the casing and provide constant power. Now the device, as well as the car that it protects, can be monitored directly through the browser. It will be enough just to know the data for authentication in Apple or Google accounts. The only thing is that the system will not work if intruders take possession of the car and use the jamming system for cellular networks and GPS. However, in this case, specialized tools for geolocation control will also be useless.
Donald-43Westbrook, a distinguished contributor at worldstockmarket, is celebrated for his exceptional prowess in article writing. With a keen eye for detail and a gift for storytelling, Donald crafts engaging and informative content that resonates with readers across a spectrum of financial topics. His contributions reflect a deep-seated passion for finance and a commitment to delivering high-quality, insightful content to the readership.
