Turn Your Old Phone Into a Free Wireless Security Camera
The Problem: Old Phones Often End Up Unused
Many people have an old phone or two sitting in a drawer, gathering dust. With a cracked screen or no SIM card, those devices often feel useless. At that point, they usually are not even eligible for trade-in.
But if that old phone still connects to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, it can still be useful.
The Cause: You May Not Realize It Can Still Do More
Even without active phone service, an older device can still work well for certain tasks. One simple option is to reuse it as a wireless security camera with the help of an app.
There are a number of apps that can do this, and one free option is Alfred.
The Solution: Use Alfred to Create a Simple Security Setup
Alfred is a well-known app that lets you turn an old phone into a security camera. It works on both iPhone and Android devices and can be used for home monitoring at any time, whether you are home or away.
To get started, you need:
- One old phone to use as the Camera
- One current phone to use as the Viewer
Quick Answer
To turn an old phone into a security camera, install Alfred on both phones. Sign in on both devices using the same Google account, pair them in the app, and place the old phone where you want to monitor.
Step 1: Install Alfred on Both Phones
Download and install Alfred on:
- Your old phone
- Your current phone
Alfred is designed to make home security simple and offers features such as:
- 24/7 security
- Motion detection
- Two-way talk
- Low-light filter
- Siren
Step 2: Sign In With the Same Google Account
After installing the app, you will be asked to log in with your Gmail account.
Make sure you use the same Google account on both phones. Then assign:
- The old phone as the Camera
- Your current phone as the Viewer
Step 3: Place the Camera Phone Where You Need It
Once the two phones are paired, put the Camera phone in the spot you want to watch.
For example, if you want to use it as a baby monitor, place the phone in the nursery where you can clearly see the crib.
It is also best to place the phone near a power outlet so it can stay plugged in for 24/7 monitoring.
A Note About the Free Version
The free version of Alfred includes limited service and ads. If you want full-service capability, there is also an upgraded monthly premium option.
Final Thoughts
If you have an old phone that still works with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, Alfred makes it easy to give that device a second life. It is a simple way to create a supplementary security monitoring system without spending money on a new camera.
