From Selfies to Surveillance: Repurpose Your Old Smartphone into a Security Camera
Every year, millions of us upgrade our smartphones and toss the old ones into a drawer; where they sit unused and unloved. Instead of letting that retired phone gather dust (or become a high-tech paperweight), why not give it a new mission in life? With a bit of ingenuity (and a free app or two), your aging Android or iPhone can don a proverbial cape and become a DIY home security camera. This not only saves you money on expensive new cameras, but it also helps reduce e-waste by extending the life of your tech.
In this post, we’ll show you how to transform your old smartphone into a smart sentinel – step-by-step. So grab that old phone (yes, the one with Candy Crush still on it) and let’s get started turning selfies into surveillance!
Step-by-Step Guide: Turning an Old Phone into a Security Camera
- Prep Your Retired Phone (Dust-Off and Update): Dig out your old smartphone and give it a good charge (and maybe a wipe-down, those fingerprints are so 2016). Reset to factory settings, update the OS, and make sure it can connect to Wi-Fi. No SIM card needed!
- Install a Security Camera App: Choose a camera app like Alfred, Manything, or Presence. Install it on both the old phone (as the camera) and your current phone (as the viewer). Sign in and set up the old phone as the camera and the new phone as the viewer.
- Position the Phone & Find the Perfect Spot: Place the phone where it has a good view, such as entryways, living room, etc. Adjust angles and lighting as needed. Use multiple phones for better coverage.
- Mount Your Phone Securely: Use budget-friendly options like car dashboard holders, DIY binder clip stands, or mini tripods. Ensure it’s stable and near a power source.
- Keep It Powered 24/7: Use a long charging cable and secure it well. A plugged-in phone ensures uninterrupted surveillance. Avoid overheating by providing ventilation.
- Connect to Wi-Fi and Test the Setup: Ensure strong Wi-Fi signal and test motion alerts, video quality, and app features. Adjust settings like sensitivity and notifications as needed.
Best Apps to Turn Your Phone into a Security Camera (Pros & Cons)
Below we spotlight three popular options: Alfred, Manything, and Presence.
Comparison of Top Security Camera Apps for Smartphones
| App | Platforms | Free Features | Premium Perks | Notable Quirks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alfred Camera, | Android & iOS | Live streaming, motion detection, alerts, two-way talk, cloud video clips | HD video, zoom, 30-day cloud storage, no ads | Google sign-in required, may crash on very old phones |
| Manything | iOS (limited Android) | Live streaming, motion alerts, two-way audio, IFTTT integration | Cloud storage, multiple cameras | Best on iOS, Android support limited, paid plan needed for recordings |
| Presence | iOS & Android | Live stream, motion alerts, two-way audio, 50 MB cloud storage | More storage, smart sensor integration | Dated UI, occasional nags, limited smart home integration |
Physical Setup Tips: Mounting, Power, and Wi-Fi
- Mounting: Use DIY mounts like binder clips or dashboard holders. Mini tripods work well for flexible placement.
- Power: Use high-quality long cables. Smart plugs can help manage power. Keep the phone ventilated to avoid overheating.
- Wi-Fi: Ensure strong signal; consider a mesh node or extender. Avoid using unsecured or public networks.
Privacy and Security Considerations
- Secure Your Account: Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
- App Permissions: Use trusted apps only and limit permissions to what's necessary.
- Wipe Personal Data: Factory reset the phone and remove any accounts before repurposing.
- Update Software: Install the latest OS and app updates available to reduce vulnerabilities.
- Respect Privacy: Inform household members about the camera and avoid placing it in sensitive areas.
- Secure Network: Use WPA2/WPA3 and a strong password on your Wi-Fi router. Disable UPnP if not used.
Conclusion
Congratulations – you’ve now upgraded your home security and given your old phone a meaningful second life! What once was a forgotten gadget is now your vigilant guard. It’s financially savvy, environmentally friendly, and geekily satisfying.
By turning old tech into new security, you’ve made your home a bit smarter and safer – and saved money. Keep those apps updated, practice good digital hygiene, and enjoy the benefits of your clever setup.
So here’s to reusing tech in fun, innovative ways. May your new-old security camera catch only friendly faces (or the occasional sneaky pet). Stay safe and savvy!