What to do with old phones: 10 Smart Repurposes

Got a drawer overflowing with relics from your mobile past? Maybe a vintage Motorola RAZR, or perhaps a slightly-less-ancient iPhone 6s? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that mountains of e-waste, including these retired smartphones, pile up annually, creating a real opportunity to rethink what to do with old phones. The Free Geek organization champions the cause of tech reuse through refurbishment, donating devices to those in need. Instead of letting your old gadget gather dust, you could use a nifty app like AlfredCamera to transform it into a home security system! Get ready to discover ten smart and creative ways to breathe new life into your discarded devices and give them a second act.

Giving Old Phones a New Life: Beyond the Drawer

That dusty drawer… we all have one. And chances are, nestled amongst old chargers and tangled headphones, lies a retired smartphone. Don’t let it languish there! Instead, consider the exciting possibility of repurposing it.

It’s time to think beyond simply upgrading and discarding.

Repurposing isn’t just about being thrifty (though it definitely helps your wallet!). It’s about embracing a smarter, more sustainable way of thinking about technology. Let’s dive into why giving your old phone a second act is a brilliant idea.

Why Repurpose? Benefits for You and the Planet

The benefits of repurposing your old phone are two-fold: personal and environmental. For you, it’s about unlocking hidden potential and saving money. Why buy a dedicated security camera when you can simply repurpose the phone you already own?

Plus, getting creative with technology can be surprisingly fun!

From an environmental standpoint, repurposing is a powerful way to reduce your carbon footprint.

Tackling the E-Waste Crisis: One Phone at a Time

Did you know that electronic waste (e-waste) is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world? Mountains of discarded electronics are piling up, leaching harmful toxins into the environment. It’s a serious problem, but every little bit helps.

Repurposing helps mitigate this issue by extending the lifespan of your devices, reducing the demand for new resources, and preventing hazardous materials from ending up in landfills. It’s a small act with a potentially large impact.

A Sneak Peek at the Possibilities

What can you actually do with an old phone? The possibilities are surprisingly vast! We’re talking about transforming it into:

• A dedicated security system.
• A portable entertainment hub.
• A smart home remote control.
• Even a dashcam for your car!

We’ll explore these ideas (and more!) in detail, showing you just how versatile your old phone can be. Get ready to unleash its hidden potential and breathe new life into a device you thought was obsolete.

Essential Preparation: Wiping Data and Ensuring Privacy

So, you’re ready to give your old phone a new lease on life? Awesome! But before you transform it into a security camera or a smart home hub, there’s a crucial step you absolutely can’t skip: ensuring your data is completely wiped and your privacy is protected.

Think of it like this: you wouldn’t lend your house keys to a stranger, right? Your phone is the same; it’s a digital treasure trove of personal information, from photos and contacts to emails and financial details.

Leaving this data vulnerable could be a recipe for disaster, and frankly, it’s just not worth the risk. Let’s dive into how to properly sanitize your device and make sure it’s squeaky clean, data-wise.

The Absolute Necessity of Data Wiping

Let’s be clear: wiping your personal data is non-negotiable. Before you even think about repurposing, selling, or donating your old phone, this has to be your top priority.

Imagine someone gaining access to your old photos, your browsing history, or even your banking apps. The consequences can range from embarrassing to downright devastating.

Don’t take the chance! Your privacy is precious, and it’s up to you to protect it.

Performing a Factory Reset: The First Line of Defense

The good news is that most phones come equipped with a built-in data-wiping tool called a "factory reset." This process essentially restores your phone to its original, out-of-the-box state, deleting all your personal data in the process.

However, the process can vary slightly depending on whether you’re using an Android or iOS device. Let’s walk through the steps for each:

Factory Reset on Android: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Back it up (if needed): Before you erase everything, consider if there’s any data you want to preserve!

2. Open Settings: Find the Settings app on your Android phone (it’s usually a gear icon).

3. Navigate to General Management (or similar): The exact wording may vary depending on your phone’s manufacturer, but look for something like "General Management," "System," or "About Phone."

4. Select Reset: Within the General Management or System menu, you should find a "Reset" option.

5. Choose Factory Data Reset: Tap on "Factory Data Reset." Be absolutely sure you want to do this, because there’s no turning back.

6. Confirm and Erase: You’ll likely be prompted to confirm your decision and enter your PIN, password, or pattern. Follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the reset process.

7. Wait Patiently: The factory reset process can take a few minutes, so be patient and let your phone do its thing. Once it’s done, it will restart and boot up as if it were brand new.

Factory Reset on iOS (iPhone/iPad): A Clean Slate

1. Back it up (Optional): Like with Android, consider backing up any data you want to keep before proceeding.

2. Open Settings: Find the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad (it’s usually a gray gear icon).

3. Navigate to General: Scroll down and tap on "General."

4. Select Transfer or Reset iPhone/iPad: Scroll to the bottom and tap "Transfer or Reset iPhone/iPad".

5. Choose Erase All Content and Settings: Tap "Erase All Content and Settings." This is the equivalent of a factory reset on iOS.

6. Confirm and Erase: You’ll be prompted to enter your Apple ID password to confirm your decision.

7. Wait Patiently: The process may take some time, depending on how much data is stored on your device. Once it’s complete, your iPhone or iPad will restart and display the initial setup screen.

Going the Extra Mile: Additional Privacy Measures

While a factory reset is a great start, there are a few additional steps you can take to ensure complete privacy and security:

• Remove SIM Card: This is essential! Your SIM card contains your phone number and other personal information. Physically remove it from the phone and store it safely.

• Remove External Storage: If your phone has a microSD card, remove it as well. These cards can contain photos, videos, and other files that you don’t want to leave behind.

• Consider Encryption (If Applicable): Some older Android phones may not automatically encrypt data during a factory reset. If this is the case, you may want to manually encrypt your device before performing the reset. Check your phone’s settings for encryption options.

By following these steps, you can rest assured that your old phone is completely sanitized and ready for its next adventure, without compromising your personal information. Now you can move on to the fun part: giving it a new purpose!

Repurposing Ideas: Unlocking the Potential of Your Old Phone

Ready to unleash the hidden potential of that dusty old phone in your drawer? It’s time to transform it from e-waste into something useful and exciting!

There are tons of creative and practical ways to repurpose your old phone, from boosting your home security to creating an awesome entertainment hub.

Let’s explore some top ideas, neatly categorized for your convenience. Get ready to be amazed by what your old device can still do!

Security Superstar: Your Phone as Guardian Angel

Who needs expensive security systems when you have an old phone? Turn it into a DIY security camera and keep an eye on things, even when you’re away.

Home Surveillance: Eyes Everywhere

Mount your phone in a strategic location, connect it to Wi-Fi, and boom – you’ve got a surveillance camera! Monitor your front door, backyard, or even your pet while you’re at work.

It’s a simple and effective way to enhance your home security without breaking the bank.

App Recommendations: Power Up Your Security

Several fantastic mobile apps can transform your phone into a full-fledged security camera.

Look into apps like AlfredCamera, Manything, or WardenCam.

These apps offer features like motion detection, remote viewing, two-way audio, and even cloud storage for your recordings. Play around with the settings to get the perfect setup!

Baby Monitor Bliss: Peace of Mind for Parents

Need a baby monitor? Your old phone can handle that too! Simply set it up in your baby’s room and use another device to monitor the audio and video feed.

Many security camera apps also work perfectly as baby monitors, providing you with real-time updates and alerts. Talk about a win-win!

Entertainment Central: Your Pocket-Sized Fun Zone

Give your old phone a new purpose as your personal entertainment hub. Dedicate it to music, books, or games, and enjoy hours of fun on the go or at home.

Portable Music Player: Tunes on Tap

Load up your favorite tunes or streaming apps like Spotify or Apple Music, and you’ve got a dedicated music player.

No more draining the battery on your primary phone! Plus, you can connect it to a Bluetooth speaker for an even better listening experience.

E-Reader Extraordinaire: Books at Your Fingertips

Transform your phone into a portable e-reader! Download the Kindle app or your preferred e-book reader, and dive into your favorite books and articles.

Perfect for commutes, travel, or relaxing at home. Plus, most phones are lighter than a traditional book, making them easier to hold for extended periods!

Gaming Device: Level Up Your Fun

Install your favorite mobile games and turn your old phone into a dedicated gaming device.

No more worrying about notifications or calls interrupting your gameplay! Many older phones can handle a surprising number of modern games.

Smart Home Commander: Control Your World

Integrate your old phone into your smart home ecosystem and control your lights, thermostat, and other connected devices with ease.

Smart Home Hub: Centralized Control

Use apps like Google Home or Samsung SmartThings to connect your phone to your smart home devices.

From there, you can control your lights, adjust the temperature, lock your doors, and more – all from a single device.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Magic: Connecting the Dots

The beauty of using an old phone as a smart home hub lies in its built-in connectivity.

Wi-Fi allows it to connect to your home network, while Bluetooth enables it to communicate with other smart devices nearby. It’s seamless and convenient!

On-the-Go Gadget: Your Versatile Companion

Even without a cellular connection, your old phone can still be a valuable tool on the road.

GPS Navigation: Never Get Lost Again

Download offline maps and use your phone as a GPS device for navigation. Perfect for hiking, road trips, or simply exploring new areas without relying on data.

Apps like Google Maps and Maps.me allow you to download maps for offline use, ensuring you always know where you’re going.

Dashcam Defender: Record Your Adventures (and Misadventures)

Mount your phone on your dashboard and use it as a dashcam to record driving footage.

In case of an accident or unexpected event, you’ll have valuable evidence. Apps like AutoGuard Dashcam and DailyRoads Voyager can help you record video while driving.

Universal Remote: Control Everything

If your phone has an IR blaster, you can use it as a universal remote control for your TV, DVD player, and other devices.

Say goodbye to juggling multiple remotes! Apps like AnyMote Universal Remote can turn your phone into a powerful and convenient remote control.

Environmental Responsibility: Doing Right by Our Planet and Our Old Phones

Okay, so you’ve considered giving your old phone a new lease on life (and hopefully, you’ve found a cool way to do it!).

But what if it’s truly beyond repair? Or just so outdated that it’s only fit to be a paperweight?

That’s where environmental responsibility comes in. Let’s dive into why recycling your old phone is a must and how to do it the right way!

Why Recycle? The E-Waste Elephant in the Room

E-waste. Those two words might not sound scary, but trust me, they represent a HUGE problem.

Electronic waste, including our beloved (and then discarded) phones, is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world.

And it’s not just about cluttering landfills. E-waste contains hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium.

These substances can leach into the soil and water, causing serious environmental and health problems.

Recycling helps us tackle e-waste head-on.

It recovers valuable materials like gold, silver, and copper from old phones. These can then be reused in new products.

This reduces the need to mine for virgin resources, which is energy-intensive and environmentally damaging.

Finding a Recycling Center Near You: Your Local Heroes

So, where do you take your old phone to be recycled?

Your best bet is to find a local recycling center or charity that accepts electronics.

A quick Google search for "electronics recycling near me" should give you some great leads.

Many municipalities also have regular e-waste collection events. Keep an eye out for those!

Big box stores like Best Buy and Staples often have recycling programs as well.

Mobile Security Reminder

One quick word before shipping or dropping-off your phone for recycling.

Make double sure you’ve wiped all your personal data from the device!

Call2Recycle: A National Recycling Champion

Call2Recycle is a fantastic organization that focuses specifically on battery and cell phone recycling.

They have drop-off locations all across the country, making it super easy to recycle your old phone responsibly.

Check out their website to find a drop-off location near you and learn more about their programs.

The EPA’s Role: Keeping E-waste in Check

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plays a crucial role in managing e-waste in the United States.

The EPA sets regulations and guidelines for the safe handling, transportation, and disposal of electronic waste.

They also work to promote responsible recycling practices and reduce the environmental impact of e-waste.

They provide resources for consumers, businesses, and governments to help them manage e-waste effectively.

By supporting the EPA’s efforts, we can all contribute to a cleaner, healthier planet!

Selling or Donating: Giving Your Phone a Second Life with Others

So, you’ve wiped your phone clean (good job!), but you’re not quite ready to turn it into a security camera or a smart home hub. Maybe you’re thinking, "This thing still has some life left in it!" You’re right! Selling or donating your old phone can be a fantastic way to give it a second act and do some good in the process.

Let’s explore how you can turn that old device into cash or contribute to a worthy cause.

Selling Strategies: Making a Few Bucks

Got a phone that’s still kicking but just not your style anymore? Selling it can be a win-win. You get some money back, and someone else gets a phone at a great price. It’s like the circle of phone life!

But where do you even start?

Online Marketplaces: eBay and Amazon

eBay and Amazon are the granddaddies of online marketplaces. These are great platforms to reach a huge audience, potentially driving up the price, especially for popular models.

However, be prepared to handle customer service inquiries and potentially deal with returns. You’ll also need to take good photos and write a detailed description to attract buyers.

Specialized Phone Resellers: Swappa and Gazelle

Swappa and Gazelle are platforms dedicated specifically to selling electronics, making the process streamlined and user-friendly.

Swappa is fantastic for selling directly to other users, often netting you a higher price than selling to a company. Gazelle offers a quick and easy process. They’ll give you a quote, and if you accept, you simply ship your phone to them.

The downside? Gazelle typically offers lower prices than selling directly to consumers.

Instant Cash with ecoATM

Need cash fast? ecoATM kiosks are located in many malls and grocery stores. They assess your phone’s condition and offer you an instant cash price.

This is the most convenient option, but remember, convenience comes at a cost. You’ll likely get the lowest price compared to other selling methods.

Donation Options: Giving Back

Feeling generous? Donating your old phone can make a real difference in someone’s life. Many charities use donated phones to support their programs or provide communication tools to those in need.

Finding the Right Charity

Do your research! Look for reputable charities that have a clear mission and a track record of effectively using donated electronics. Some organizations provide phones to veterans, victims of domestic violence, or people in developing countries.

A quick search for "donate used phones charity" will give you a good starting point.

Refurbishing: Adding Value Before You Pass It On

Before you sell or donate, consider giving your phone a little TLC. A new screen protector, a thorough cleaning, or even a replacement battery can significantly increase its value and appeal.

For donations, a functional and well-maintained phone is much more useful and impactful than one that’s cracked and barely working.

Advanced Projects: Unleash Your Inner Maker with DIY and IoT Phone Hacks

Ready to level up your repurposing game? We’ve explored the basics, but for those of you with a tinkerer’s spirit, it’s time to dive into the exciting world of DIY and IoT integration! Your old phone can be more than just a security camera or music player—it can become the brain behind some seriously cool projects.

Let’s get those creative juices flowing and turn that dusty device into something truly amazing!

IoT Experiments: Connecting Your Phone to the World

The Internet of Things (IoT) isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a universe of possibilities! Your old phone, with its built-in sensors, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, is the perfect gateway to start experimenting.

Imagine controlling your home with a device you were about to throw away!

Setting Up the Foundation: Software and Platforms

First things first, you’ll need a platform to connect your phone to other devices. Several options are user-friendly and perfect for beginners:

• IFTTT (If This Then That): This is your easiest starting point. IFTTT lets you create simple "applets" that trigger actions based on events. For example, you could set up an applet that turns on your smart lights when your phone detects you’re close to home (using its GPS).
• Tasker (Android): If you’re an Android user, Tasker is incredibly powerful. It allows you to automate virtually anything on your phone based on a wide range of triggers. The learning curve is a bit steeper than IFTTT, but the possibilities are endless.
• Home Assistant: For a more advanced and customizable solution, Home Assistant is the way to go. It’s an open-source home automation platform that supports a vast range of devices and services. Be warned: it requires some technical know-how!

Practical IoT Projects

Okay, enough theory. Let’s talk about some fun projects you can actually do!

• Smart Garden Monitor: Use your phone’s camera to monitor your plants and send you alerts when they need watering. You can even connect it to a soil moisture sensor for more accurate data.
• Automated Pet Feeder: Control a simple servo motor to dispense food for your furry friend while you’re away.
• Custom Dashboard: Display real-time data from your smart home devices on your phone’s screen. Think temperature readings, energy consumption, or even the status of your 3D printer.

Home Automation on a Budget

Who needs an expensive smart home system when you have an old phone and some creativity? Let’s automate!

Voice-Activated Control

Turn your phone into a dedicated voice assistant! Even without an active SIM card, your phone can connect to Wi-Fi and respond to voice commands.

• Dedicated Google Assistant or Alexa Device: Simply install the Google Assistant or Alexa app and set up your phone as a permanent voice-controlled hub.
• Custom Voice Commands with Tasker (Android): Get even more creative by setting up custom voice commands for specific tasks using Tasker. Imagine saying, "Phone, start my coffee maker!"

Controlling Appliances

Using smart plugs, you can control almost any appliance with your old phone. Connect your phone to the smart plug via Wi-Fi and use IFTTT or Tasker to create rules for turning devices on and off based on timers, location, or even voice commands.

Creative DIY Projects: Think Outside the Box

Time to unleash your inner artist/engineer!

Digital Photo Frame

Turn your old phone into a sleek digital photo frame. Simply load up a bunch of your favorite photos and use an app that automatically cycles through them.

Mount it on the wall or place it on a desk to enjoy a constant stream of memories.

Custom Notification Display

Use your phone’s screen to display custom notifications from your favorite services. You could display the weather forecast, stock prices, or even the number of unread emails in your inbox.

Retro Gaming Console

Load up your phone with emulators for classic gaming consoles like NES, SNES, or Game Boy. Connect a Bluetooth controller for a truly authentic retro gaming experience. You are set for hours of fun.

With a little imagination and some elbow grease, your old phone can be transformed into something truly unique and useful. So, ditch the e-waste guilt and get ready to repurpose!

Expert Perspectives: Unmasking E-waste and Championing Responsible Disposal

Okay, we’ve covered some seriously cool ways to breathe new life into your old phones. But let’s get real for a second. It’s not always feasible, or even desirable, to repurpose every old device. So, what happens then? That’s where the crucial voices of e-waste recycling experts and environmental advocates come in.

Their insights aren’t just informative; they’re a wake-up call, reminding us of the bigger picture and the responsibility we all share in creating a more sustainable future.

The Sobering Reality of E-waste

Electronic waste, or e-waste, is a mountain of discarded devices, growing faster than ever. It contains a cocktail of hazardous materials – lead, mercury, cadmium – that can leach into the soil, contaminate water, and wreak havoc on ecosystems and human health.

Ignoring this problem is simply not an option anymore.

According to Jim Puckett, Executive Director of the Basel Action Network (BAN), “E-waste is not just trash; it is a complex mix of valuable resources and dangerous toxins. We must prioritize reducing consumption, reusing what we can, and then recycling responsibly to minimize harm.”

This quote really drives home the multi-faceted nature of the issue. It’s not enough to just toss our old phones in the bin and forget about them. We need to be conscious consumers, extend the lifespan of our devices whenever possible, and, when recycling is the only option, ensure it’s done properly.

The Importance of Responsible Disposal

Responsible disposal means ensuring that your old phone is processed by a certified recycler who adheres to strict environmental standards. These recyclers use specialized equipment and techniques to safely recover valuable materials like gold, silver, and copper while preventing hazardous substances from contaminating the environment.

Think of it like this: you’re not just getting rid of an old phone; you’re contributing to a circular economy where resources are recovered and reused, rather than ending up in landfills.

As Sarah Westervelt, Director of E-Stewards Certification, puts it, “Choosing a certified e-waste recycler is crucial for ensuring that your old electronics are processed in an environmentally sound and socially responsible manner. Look for certifications like E-Stewards to be confident that your recycler is meeting the highest standards.”

E-Stewards and similar certifications provide a layer of accountability, verifying that recyclers are following best practices and protecting both the environment and worker safety.

How Can You Make a Difference?

Okay, so you’re convinced – responsible disposal matters. But where do you start?

Here are a few actionable steps you can take:

• Research local recycling options: Check with your city or county for e-waste recycling programs. Many communities offer free collection events or drop-off locations.
• Look for certified recyclers: Use online search tools to find e-Stewards or R2 certified recyclers in your area.
• Consider manufacturer take-back programs: Many phone manufacturers, like Apple and Samsung, offer take-back programs where you can send in your old devices for recycling.
• Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask recyclers about their processes and certifications. Transparency is a good sign.

Beyond Recycling: Extending Device Lifespan

While responsible recycling is essential, the most impactful thing we can do is extend the lifespan of our devices in the first place.

This means taking care of our phones, repairing them when possible, and resisting the urge to upgrade every year.

As Kyle Wiens, CEO of iFixit, advocates, “The best way to reduce e-waste is to keep electronics in use longer. Demand repairable products, support right-to-repair legislation, and learn to fix your own devices.”

Wiens’s call to action emphasizes the importance of empowering consumers to repair their own devices and holding manufacturers accountable for designing products that are built to last. The longer we can keep our phones in use, the less e-waste we generate, and the more sustainable our tech consumption becomes.

So, there you have it! Ten pretty clever ways to breathe new life into your old tech. Hopefully, this gave you some inspiration for what to do with old phones gathering dust in your drawers. Now go forth and give those forgotten devices a brand new purpose!