So, you’ve got yourself a new smartphone, and you’re now wondering what to do with the old one. Or perhaps you already have a few old phones taking up space in your home, but you’re unsure what to do with them. Well, don’t just toss them in the trash or let them gather dust in a drawer! There are many uses for old cell phones. Here are some creative and useful ideas:
1. Donate your old phone
Donating old cell phones to a good cause is a great way to give it a second life. Many charity or non-profit organizations collect used cell phones and distribute them to those in need, such as Cell Phones for Soldiers, which provides phones to military personnel and veterans, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, which uses phones to help survivors of domestic violence, or 911 Cell Phone Bank, which gives out phones to needy citizens in communities across the country. By doing so, you can feel good knowing that your old phone is making a difference in someone’s life.
2. Sell your old phone
If your old phone is still in decent condition and you want to make extra cash, you can always sell it online. Plenty of websites and apps allow you to sell old electronics, including cell phones, to those in the market for a used device. Determine the value of your phone and list it on the chosen marketplace. Don’t forget to wipe your personal information from the device before listing it for sale.
3. Recycle your old cell phone
If your phone is no longer usable, be sure to recycle it responsibly. Electronic waste is a growing concern, so it’s essential to do your part in reducing it and helping protect the environment. You can check with your phone manufacturer or local electronics store for recycling programs and drop-off locations. Also, many e-waste recycling companies can take your old phone off your hands and ensure it is properly disposed of and recycled in an eco-friendly way.
4. Turn your old phone into a security camera
With the help of third-party apps, you can easily turn your old phone into a security camera and monitor your home while you’re away – as long as the device can connect to Wi-Fi and the camera is still functional. Simply download and install a security camera app on your old and current phone, mount your old device in a corner or on a shelf, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you can check on your home from anywhere.
5. Use your old phone as a baby monitor
If you have a baby, you can repurpose your old phone as a baby monitor, which can be a convenient and cost-effective way to keep an eye on your child. Just download and install a baby monitor app, place your old phone in your baby’s room or near your baby, and you’ll be able to hear and see your little one from anywhere in the house.
6. Turn your old phone into a music player
If you’re a music lover or enjoy listening to audio content on the go, this is an excellent option for you. Load up your old phone with your favorite songs, podcasts, and audiobooks, pair your headphones or connect to a Bluetooth speaker, and you’ve got yourself a dedicated music player. Plus, you can keep your primary phone free of clutter and won’t have to worry about draining its battery.
7. Use your old phone as a GPS device
Tired of your phone always dying when you’re out exploring? Use your old phone as a GPS device, and never worry about running out of juice again. Just download a navigation app, mount your old phone in your car, bike, or hiking gear, and you’re ready. Many GPS apps offer the ability to download offline maps to navigate your way to your destination without Wi-Fi or internet access.
8. Make your old phone a remote control
Did you know that many old cell phones can be used as remote controls for various devices around your home? With the right app, you can use your old phone to control your TV, sound system, or even your smart home devices. It’s a handy way to repurpose an old device and make your life a little easier, especially if you tend to lose or misplace remote controls or want to control all your home entertainment or smart devices without juggling multiple remotes.
9. Use your old phone as a webcam
If you frequently participate in remote meetings or video chats and need a webcam for your desktop computer, you’d be happy to hear that your old phone can also serve as a reliable webcam. Download a webcam app, connect your phone to your computer, and there you have it. Your phone’s camera may even have better video quality than your laptop’s built-in webcam.
10. Give your old phone to your child, teen, or another family member
Do you have a kid who’s old enough for their first phone? Then why not pass it along to them? Kids love playing games and watching videos on phones, so this can be a great chance to keep them entertained or introduce them to smartphones without spending money on a new device. Just make sure to set parental controls and limit their access to certain apps and content. Alternatively, you may consider giving it to a family member who could use a phone — it’s a kind gesture that can help them stay connected.
Now that you have some ideas about what to do with your old phone, it’s worth considering safeguarding your new phone. While it’s easy to think that accidents won’t happen, you never know when you might drop or damage your new device. Getting phone insurance is one of the most responsible things you can do to protect your phone from expensive shattered screens and other accidental damage. And with the right insurance protection for your device, you can rest easy knowing that you have a backup plan in case a repair or replacement is needed.
