10 Creative Uses for Your Old Smartphones

Many people toss old phones into drawers, but there’s a smarter solution. With technology advancing rapidly, most of us have a device or two lying around. Instead of letting it go to waste, consider these 10 creative uses for your old smartphones that can simplify your daily life, support sustainable habits, and save you money.

smartphones

Why Finding Creative Uses for Old Smartphones Matters

Every year, millions of smartphones are discarded. According to the Global E-Waste Monitor, over 5 billion phones will become e-waste by 2030—many of them still fully functional. By repurposing your old mobile devices, you reduce electronic waste and get extended value from the technology you already own.

📱 1. Turn Your Smartphones into a Smart Home Hub

Give your retired phone a second life as a dedicated smart-home controller.
Smartphone home automation apps like Google Home, Apple HomeKit, or Amazon Alexa let you easily manage lights, thermostats, and security systems.
Sub-tip: Mount it near your entryway for quick control access.

2. Convert Your Smartphones into a Home Security Camera

Did you know your outdated mobile phone can be a security cam?
Apps like Alfred, Presence, or Manything transform your old smartphone into a Wi‑Fi–enabled, motion‑detecting surveillance tool for round‑the‑clock home monitoring.

3. Use Your Phone as a Digital Photo Frame

Turn your surplus smartphone into a sleek digital photo display.
Install Fotoo or use Google Photos’ slideshow, place it on a stand, and enjoy a rotating showcase of your favorite memories.
Alt attribute for image suggestion: “Digital photo frame repurposed from old smartphone”

4. Bedside Clock & Smart Alarm on Your Smartphones

Transform your smartphone into the perfect bedside companion with apps like Sleep Cycle.
It becomes a clock radio, alarm, and sleep tracker.
Tip: Switch to airplane mode to avoid nighttime notifications while still waking up refreshed.

5. Dedicated E‑Reader or Audiobook Player from Your Phone

Convert your spare phone into a distraction-free reading or listening hub.
Use apps like Kindle, Libby, or Audible—ideal for travel or keeping your main device less cluttered.

6. Educational Smartphones for Kids

Turn your old phone into a child’s learning device.
Install Duolingo ABC, PBS Kids, or Khan Academy Kids, and manage screen time with parental controls—educational, safe, and phone-free for you!

7. Turn Old Phones into Mobile Wi‑Fi Hotspots

With a SIM card and data plan, repurpose your smartphone as a portable hotspot.
Perfect for remote working, camping, or emergency connectivity during power outages.

8. Universal Remote Control from Your Smartphone

Many Android phones come with infrared (IR) blasters.
Use an old smartphone with apps like AnyMote or Mi Remote to control your TV, sound system, or AC unit—without additional remotes.

9. Use Old Phones as a Creative Second Camera

Need an extra camera for content or video calls?
Mount your secondary phone for overhead views, time-lapses, or multi-angle recording—maximize your content creation setup at no extra cost.

10. Environmental Monitoring with Your Smartphones

Pair your old phone with environmental sensors to track air quality, humidity, or temperature.
Apps like AirVisual or Netatmo turn it into a dedicated home environmental monitor—perfect for health and wellness awareness.

If You Can’t Reuse It: Responsible Smartphones Disposal

No time to repurpose? Choose eco-friendly disposal.
Donate to programs like Cell Phones for Soldiers or drop off at e-waste recycling centers. Many tech brands offer trade-in or recycling credit programs.

Final Thoughts

Repurposing old smartphones not only saves money but also helps protect the environment by reducing e-waste. Choose a creative reuse for your device—or recycle it responsibly. Either way, your smartphone can continue benefiting you—and the planet.

References

Wired (2024) How to Repurpose Your Old Smartphone. (Accessed: 13 May 2025).
GSMA (2022) The Mobile Economy 2022. (Accessed: 13 May 2025).
International Telecommunication Union (2022) Global E-Waste Monitor. (Accessed: 13 May 2025).