Things To Do With Your Smartphone Instead Of Throwing It Away
Smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, offering a wide range of functionalities and convenience. However, as technology advances and new models are released, many people feel compelled to upgrade their smartphones, leaving older devices unused and discarded. Instead of simply throwing away your old smartphone, consider exploring alternative uses for it. In this blog, we will discuss several creative and practical ways to repurpose your old smartphone and extend its lifespan.
Transform it into a Dedicated Music Player:
Turn your old smartphone into a dedicated music player by removing unnecessary apps and disabling cellular connectivity. Load it with your favorite songs, create playlists, and connect it to a speaker or headphones for a personalized music experience. You can also use music streaming apps and offline storage options to keep your music library updated.
Transforming your old smartphone into a dedicated music player is a fantastic way to give it a new purpose and enjoy your favorite tunes. Here’s how you can do it:
Clear Out Unnecessary Apps and Data: Start by decluttering your smartphone. Remove unnecessary apps, photos, videos, and other files that are taking up storage space. This will free up memory and ensure a smoother music playback experience.
Disable Cellular Connectivity: Since you’ll be using your old smartphone primarily as a music player, you can conserve battery life by disabling cellular connectivity. Turn on Airplane Mode or disable cellular data and Wi-Fi when not needed. This will also prevent any interruptions from incoming calls or notifications.
Organize Your Music Library: Transfer your music files from your computer or other devices to your old smartphone. Create playlists, sort your music by genre, artist, or mood, and organize your library in a way that suits your preferences. You can use applications like Apple Music, Spotify, Google Play Music, or local music players to manage and play your music.
Connect to External Audio Devices: Enhance your music experience by connecting your old smartphone to external audio devices. Use Bluetooth speakers, wireless headphones, or wired headphones with an audio jack adapter to enjoy high-quality sound. You can also connect it to your car’s audio system via Bluetooth or auxiliary cable for a personalized in-car music experience.
Explore Music Streaming Services: Consider subscribing to music streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon Music. These services provide access to an extensive library of songs, playlists, and personalized recommendations. You can stream music directly to your old smartphone, expanding your music collection beyond what you have locally stored.
Customize Sound Settings: Experiment with the equalizer settings on your old smartphone to fine-tune the audio output according to your preferences. Adjust bass, treble, and other audio settings to enhance the sound quality and make it more enjoyable for your ears.
Create a Dedicated Music Dock or Stand: Invest in a music dock or stand to hold your old smartphone while playing music. This will provide a convenient and stable setup, allowing you to control playback easily and enjoy your music hands-free. There are various types of docks and stands available, ranging from simple stands to more sophisticated charging docks with additional features.
Remember to periodically update your music library, discover new artists and genres, and enjoy the versatility of your dedicated music player. With your old smartphone as a dedicated music device, you can keep your favorite songs at your fingertips and enjoy a personalized and immersive music experience wherever you go.
Create a Home Security System:
Repurpose your old smartphone as a home security system. Install a reliable security app and position the device strategically to monitor your home. Many security apps offer features such as motion detection, live video streaming, and cloud storage for recorded footage. Enhance its functionality by connecting it to a power source, mounting it on a stand, or using it with external cameras.
Repurposing your old smartphone as a home security system is a practical and cost-effective way to enhance the security of your living space. Here’s how you can do it:
Select a Security App: Choose a reliable security app that offers features such as motion detection, live video streaming, and cloud storage for recorded footage. Some popular options include Alfred, Presence, or Manything. Ensure the app is compatible with your old smartphone’s operating system.
Install and Set Up the App: Download and install the security app on your old smartphone. Follow the app’s instructions to create an account and set up the device. Configure the app’s settings according to your preferences, such as motion sensitivity, notifications, and video quality.
Position the Smartphone: Determine the optimal placement for your old smartphone to monitor your home. Common locations include near entrances, hallways, or areas with valuable belongings. Mount the smartphone on a stand or use adhesive hooks or wall mounts to secure it in place. Ensure the camera lens has a clear view of the desired area.
Power Source: Connect your old smartphone to a reliable power source to ensure continuous operation. You can use a power outlet or consider using a USB power adapter and cable for flexibility. Make sure the power source is conveniently located near the placement of the smartphone.
Wi-Fi Connectivity: Connect your old smartphone to your home’s Wi-Fi network to enable remote access and cloud storage features. This allows you to view live footage and access recorded videos from anywhere using another device like your current smartphone or a computer.
Test the System: Once everything is set up, test the system to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Trigger the motion detection feature to see if you receive notifications on your current smartphone or other designated devices. Verify that the video streaming and recording functions are working as intended.
Adjust Settings as Needed: Fine-tune the app’s settings based on your requirements. Customize notification preferences, adjust motion detection sensitivity, or set schedules for when the security system should be active. Regularly review and update these settings to optimize the system’s performance.
Optional Enhancements: Consider additional enhancements to improve the effectiveness of your home security system. For example, you can connect external cameras to your old smartphone using compatible apps or invest in accessories like wide-angle lenses or infrared filters to enhance video quality and night vision capabilities.
Remote Monitoring: Take advantage of the remote monitoring feature of the security app. You can check live video feeds or access recorded footage from your current smartphone or other devices, providing you with peace of mind when you’re away from home.
Remember to regularly check the app for software updates and ensure your old smartphone is charged and connected to Wi-Fi at all times. Repurposing your old smartphone as a home security system is a practical and economical way to add an extra layer of security to your home, keeping you connected and informed about the safety of your living space.
Transform it into a Digital Photo Frame:
Give your old smartphone new life as a digital photo frame. Upload your favorite photos and create slideshows that rotate through cherished memories. You can place it on a stand or mount it on a wall to display a constant stream of beautiful images. Some photo frame apps even allow you to customize transitions, timing, and special effects.
Give your old smartphone a fresh purpose by repurposing it as a digital photo frame. With this creative idea, you can showcase your cherished memories and enjoy a rotating display of beautiful images. Here’s how you can transform your old smartphone into a digital photo frame:
Clear Out Unnecessary Apps and Files: Start by decluttering your old smartphone. Remove unnecessary apps, photos, videos, and other files to free up storage space and ensure smooth performance dedicated to displaying your photos.
Choose a Photo Frame App: Look for a dedicated photo frame app that suits your needs. There are various options available on app stores, such as Dayframe, Photo Slideshow, or Digital Photo Frame. Research and choose an app that offers features like customizable transitions, timing, and special effects.
Transfer Photos: Transfer your favorite photos to your old smartphone. You can copy them from your computer, external storage devices, or other devices. Organize your photos into folders or albums based on themes, events, or memories to easily manage and switch between different collections.
Customize Display Settings: Adjust the display settings on your old smartphone to enhance the photo viewing experience. Set the screen timeout to a longer duration or disable it altogether to keep the photos visible for extended periods. Adjust brightness and screen orientation according to your preference and the location of the photo frame.
Connect to a Power Source: Connect your old smartphone to a reliable power source to ensure uninterrupted operation. You can use a power outlet or consider using a USB power adapter and cable for convenience. This way, your digital photo frame can continuously display your photos without running out of battery.
Set Up Slideshow and Transitions: Launch the photo frame app and customize the slideshow settings. Choose the desired transition effects between photos, such as fade, slide, or dissolve. Adjust the timing between photos to control the duration of each image’s display. Some apps also offer additional features like background music or clock displays.
Mount or Display the Smartphone: Select a suitable stand, mount, or frame to position your old smartphone. You can place it on a desk, shelf, or wall-mounted holder. Ensure that the smartphone is secure and positioned at an appropriate height and angle for easy viewing.
Explore Additional Features: Some photo frame apps offer additional features to enhance the experience. You may find options to display the date, time, weather information, or even integrate with social media accounts to showcase your latest photos or shared memories.
Update and Rotate Photos: Periodically update the photos on your old smartphone’s digital photo frame. Add new pictures or replace existing ones to keep the display fresh and interesting. Rotate different collections or albums to add variety and nostalgia to your photo frame.
With your old smartphone transformed into a digital photo frame, you can relive cherished moments, showcase your photography skills, or create a visual centerpiece for your living space. Enjoy the beauty of your memories and let your old smartphone find a new purpose as a personalized photo display.
Use it as a Remote Control:
Many smartphones have built-in infrared (IR) blasters, allowing them to function as universal remote controls. Download remote control apps and configure them to operate your TV, audio systems, air conditioners, and other IR-controlled devices. You’ll have the convenience of controlling multiple devices from a single device, eliminating the need for multiple remote controls cluttering your living space.
Repurposing your old smartphone as a remote control is a practical and convenient way to consolidate multiple devices into one. Here’s how you can use your old smartphone as a versatile remote control:
Identify Supported Devices: Determine the devices in your home that can be controlled remotely. This may include your television, set-top box, DVD/Blu-ray player, audio systems, streaming devices, air conditioners, and more. Check if your old smartphone has an infrared (IR) blaster, which is necessary for controlling IR-enabled devices. If not, consider using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-based remote control apps for compatible devices.
Install Remote Control Apps: Install remote control apps that are compatible with the devices you want to control. For IR-enabled devices, apps like “Peel Smart Remote,” “SURE Universal Remote,” or “Anymote” can simulate IR signals. For Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-based control, use specific apps provided by the device manufacturers or popular apps like “Google Home” or “Amazon Alexa.”
Set Up Devices in the App: Launch the remote control app on your old smartphone and follow the instructions to set up your devices. The app will guide you through the process of connecting to each device and configuring the appropriate controls. Make sure your old smartphone and the devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network or paired via Bluetooth if applicable.
Customize Remote Control Layout: Many remote control apps allow you to customize the layout and appearance of the remote control interface on your smartphone. You can arrange buttons, create shortcuts, or even design custom layouts for easy access to frequently used functions.
Create Activity Shortcuts: Remote control apps often offer the ability to create activity shortcuts. This means you can combine multiple device controls into a single action. For example, you can create a shortcut that turns on your TV, selects the appropriate input, and adjusts the volume simultaneously with a single button press.
Explore Voice Control: If your old smartphone supports voice control, consider using voice assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, or Amazon Alexa to control your devices. Connect your smartphone to compatible smart home systems or devices, and use voice commands to execute various functions, such as adjusting the temperature or playing specific content on your TV.
Save Power and Ensure Connectivity: Keep your old smartphone connected to Wi-Fi or ensure it has a stable cellular data connection if required by the remote control app. For devices that use IR control, conserve battery power by disabling unnecessary functions like cellular data or Wi-Fi when not needed.
Organize Remote Control Apps: As you repurpose your old smartphone as a remote control, it’s useful to organize your remote control apps in a dedicated folder or on your device’s home screen. This way, you can easily access and switch between different remote control interfaces as needed.
Keep the Smartphone Handy: Place your old smartphone in a convenient location where you can easily grab it when you need to control your devices. Consider using a stand or a smartphone holder that keeps it within reach, such as on a coffee table, near your entertainment center, or mounted on a wall if preferred.
By repurposing your old smartphone as a remote control, you can simplify your home entertainment experience, reduce clutter, and have a versatile control hub in the palm of your hand. Enjoy the convenience of managing multiple devices with a single device and make the most of your old smartphone’s capabilities.
Turn it into a Dedicated E-Reader:
Transform your old smartphone into a dedicated e-reader and enjoy a vast library of digital books. Install e-reader apps like Kindle, Nook, or iBooks, and browse through a wide range of books, magazines, and articles. Adjust the screen settings for comfortable reading, and you’ll have a portable library in your hands without the need for an additional e-reader device.
Transforming your old smartphone into a dedicated e-reader is a great way to give it a new purpose and enjoy a vast library of digital books. Here’s how you can repurpose your old smartphone as an e-reader:
Choose an E-Reader App: Select an e-reader app that suits your preferences and is compatible with your old smartphone’s operating system. Popular e-reader apps include Kindle, Nook, Google Play Books, Apple Books, and Kobo. Install the app from your device’s app store and sign in or create a new account.
Sign in to Your E-Book Store Account: If you already have an account with an e-book store like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Google Play Books, sign in to your account within the e-reader app. This allows you to access your existing library of purchased or downloaded e-books. If you don’t have an account, you can create one directly from within the app.
Browse and Download E-Books: Explore the vast selection of e-books available in the e-reader app’s digital store. Browse categories, bestseller lists, or search for specific titles or authors. Once you find a book you want to read, download it to your old smartphone’s storage. Remember to manage your storage space, as e-books can take up varying amounts of space depending on their file size.
Customize Reading Settings: Adjust the reading settings within the e-reader app to enhance your reading experience. Customize font size, font style, and background colors to make reading comfortable for your eyes. Many e-reader apps also offer adjustable brightness and screen orientation options.
Sync Your Reading Progress: If you have multiple devices with the same e-reader app, you can sync your reading progress across them. This allows you to seamlessly switch between your old smartphone and other devices without losing your place in the book. Ensure that syncing is enabled in the app’s settings and sign in with the same account on all devices.
Take Advantage of Features: E-reader apps come with various features to enhance your reading experience. Explore options like dictionary integration, highlighting and note-taking, bookmarks, and text-to-speech capabilities. Some apps also offer social features, allowing you to share your reading progress or discuss books with other readers.
Create Collections or Bookshelves: Organize your e-book library by creating collections or bookshelves within the e-reader app. Sort books by genre, author, or your own customized categories. This helps you easily find and access your desired books without scrolling through a long list.
Maximize Battery Life: To ensure extended reading sessions, optimize your old smartphone’s battery life. Adjust screen brightness to a comfortable level, disable unnecessary background apps and notifications, and use power-saving modes if available. Consider connecting your smartphone to a charger or power bank while reading for uninterrupted use.
Explore Reading Accessories: Enhance your e-reading experience with accessories like a phone stand, a comfortable grip, or a Bluetooth-enabled stylus for highlighting and note-taking. These accessories can make reading more enjoyable and convenient.
By repurposing your old smartphone as a dedicated e-reader, you can carry an entire library in your pocket and enjoy reading wherever you go. Make the most of your old smartphone’s display and capabilities to dive into the world of digital books and continue your reading journey with ease and convenience.
Donate it or Gift it:
Consider donating your old smartphone to someone in need or gifting it to a family member, friend, or colleague. There are numerous charitable organizations, schools, and community centers that accept donated smartphones to distribute among those who cannot afford them. Your old device could bring joy and connectivity to someone who may not have access to such technology otherwise.
Consider donating your old smartphone to someone in need or gifting it to a family member or friend. Instead of letting it gather dust or disposing of it, your old smartphone can still serve a valuable purpose in someone else’s life. Here are some reasons why donating or gifting your old smartphone is a meaningful choice:
Bridging the Digital Divide: Many individuals, especially in underserved communities or developing regions, do not have access to smartphones or reliable internet connectivity. By donating your old smartphone, you can help bridge the digital divide and provide someone with a tool for communication, education, and accessing vital resources.
Empowering Others: Your old smartphone can empower someone by giving them access to essential services and opportunities. It can help them connect with loved ones, search for job opportunities, access educational content, and engage in online learning. By gifting your old smartphone, you contribute to someone’s personal growth and empowerment.
Environmental Benefits: Donating or gifting your old smartphone reduces electronic waste and its environmental impact. Smartphones contain valuable materials that can be reused or recycled. By extending the lifespan of your old device, you contribute to sustainability efforts and minimize the need for new smartphone production.
Supporting Charitable Organizations: Numerous charitable organizations and initiatives accept donated smartphones to distribute among those in need. Research local charities, community centers, schools, or nonprofit organizations that facilitate technology donations. They can help connect your old smartphone with individuals or communities that can benefit from it the most.
Helping Family and Friends: Consider gifting your old smartphone to a family member or friend who may not have the means to purchase a new device. It can be a thoughtful gesture that enhances their communication capabilities, enables access to digital resources, or simply brings joy by owning a functional smartphone.
Before donating or gifting your old smartphone, ensure that you perform a factory reset to remove personal data and restore it to its original settings. This ensures the privacy and security of your information.
Remember, when donating or gifting your old smartphone, also consider including any necessary accessories like charging cables, adapters, or protective cases to provide a complete package for the recipient’s convenience.
By donating or gifting your old smartphone, you can make a positive impact on someone’s life, promote digital inclusion, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable society.
Download specific apps to use it predominantly as a gaming platform:
If you want to repurpose your old smartphone as a gaming platform, you can download specific gaming apps and optimize your device for gaming performance. Here’s how you can transform your old smartphone into a dedicated gaming device:
Select Gaming Apps: Explore popular gaming apps available on your smartphone’s app store. Choose games that align with your interests and preferences, whether it’s casual games, puzzle games, racing games, or immersive role-playing games. Some popular gaming apps include PUBG Mobile, Among Us, Candy Crush Saga, and Minecraft.
Install Game Launcher Apps: Game launcher apps help optimize your device’s performance for gaming. These apps provide features like performance boosting, battery optimization, and easy access to installed games. Examples include Game Launcher (Samsung), Game Space (OnePlus), or Game Center (iOS).
Clear Device Storage: Gaming apps can take up significant storage space, so ensure your device has sufficient free space. Uninstall unnecessary apps, delete unused files, and transfer media to external storage or cloud services. This frees up space and helps improve gaming performance.
Optimize Settings: Adjust your device’s settings to optimize gaming performance. Disable unnecessary background processes, reduce animations, and enable gaming mode if available. You can find these settings in your device’s settings menu or through the game launcher app.
Connect a Game Controller: If your old smartphone supports it, connect a compatible game controller for a console-like gaming experience. Bluetooth or USB-based controllers can enhance gameplay and provide better control and comfort for gaming sessions.
Use Gaming Accessories: Consider using gaming accessories like a smartphone stand or grip holder to improve ergonomics and make gaming more comfortable. These accessories provide a better grip, prevent hand fatigue, and offer a stable platform for extended gaming sessions.
Enable Do Not Disturb Mode: Avoid interruptions during gaming by enabling the Do Not Disturb mode on your device. This silences notifications, calls, and other distractions while you focus on your gaming experience.
Monitor Battery Usage: Gaming can be demanding on your device’s battery. Optimize battery life by reducing screen brightness, disabling unnecessary connectivity features, and using battery-saving modes. Additionally, keep a charger or power bank handy for longer gaming sessions.
Explore Online Gaming Communities: Join online gaming communities or forums to connect with other gamers, discover new games, and participate in discussions. Engaging with a gaming community can enhance your gaming experience and provide insights and recommendations for games and strategies.
By downloading specific gaming apps and optimizing your old smartphone for gaming, you can turn it into a dedicated gaming platform. Enjoy your favorite games, challenge friends, and dive into the world of mobile gaming with a device that has been repurposed to deliver an immersive gaming experience.
Trade Your Device In:
If you no longer have a need for your old smartphone, another option to consider is trading it in. Trading in your device allows you to exchange it for credit towards the purchase of a new smartphone or other electronics. Here’s what you need to know about trading in your device:
Research Trade-In Programs: Start by researching trade-in programs offered by smartphone manufacturers, retailers, or online marketplaces. Popular options include Apple Trade-In, Samsung Trade-In, Amazon Trade-In, and carrier-specific trade-in programs. Compare their trade-in values, terms, and conditions to find the best option for your device.
Check Eligibility and Condition Requirements: Each trade-in program has specific eligibility criteria and condition requirements. Ensure that your old smartphone meets these requirements. Generally, devices should be fully functional, have no major physical damage, and be free from any outstanding financial obligations (e.g., device financing or contract obligations).
Gather Device Information: Before initiating a trade-in, gather the necessary information about your old smartphone. This includes the device’s make, model, storage capacity, and condition details. Note any accessories or original packaging you have available, as it may increase the trade-in value.
Get a Trade-In Quote: Use the trade-in valuation tools provided by the trade-in programs to get an estimated value for your device. Enter the relevant details about your smartphone, and the tool will generate an offer or trade-in value. Keep in mind that the final value may vary based on the device’s actual condition upon inspection.
Back Up and Erase Your Data: Before trading in your old smartphone, back up any important data or files you want to keep. Transfer contacts, photos, videos, and other personal data to your new device or a computer. Perform a factory reset to erase all personal information and restore the device to its original settings.
Package and Ship Your Device: Follow the instructions provided by the trade-in program to package your device securely. Use appropriate padding and packaging materials to protect it during transit. Ship the device to the designated address using the provided shipping label or instructions.
Receive Trade-In Credit: Once the trade-in program receives and inspects your old smartphone, they will verify its condition. If it meets the stated requirements, you will receive the agreed-upon trade-in credit. The credit can be applied towards the purchase of a new smartphone, accessories, or other eligible products offered by the trade-in program.
Consider Alternatives: In addition to manufacturer and retailer trade-in programs, you may also explore other options like online marketplaces or electronics buyback services. These platforms allow you to sell your old smartphone directly to other individuals or businesses, potentially providing you with a higher return. Research these alternatives and compare offers to determine the best option for your device.
Trading in your old smartphone is a convenient way to offset the cost of a new device while responsibly recycling your old one. By participating in trade-in programs, you contribute to reducing electronic waste and promote the reuse of valuable resources.
Conclusion:
Instead of discarding your old smartphone, explore these creative and practical ways to repurpose it. By transforming it into a dedicated music player, home security system, digital photo frame, remote control, e-reader, or by donating it, you can extend its usefulness and contribute to a more sustainable approach to technology consumption. Repurposing your old smartphone not only benefits you but also allows others to benefit from the technology you no longer need. Let’s embrace the possibilities and give our old smartphones a second chance at usefulness.