Upgrading your phone doesn’t have to mean discarding your old device. With a few simple steps, you can transform that retired iPhone or Android into a functional security camera, all without splurging on expensive hardware. This approach is not only budget-friendly, but it also enhances your home security by monitoring key areas like your front door or garage.
All you need is a free home security camera app and a way to position the phone for optimal coverage. If you want to get fancy, a basic phone stand or mount can help achieve the ideal angle. In mere minutes, your unused device can start streaming video, giving you extra peace of mind without breaking the bank.
Step 1: Install a Security Camera App on Your Old Smartphone
First things first: you’ll need to choose a security camera app. Most apps offer similar features such as local and cloud streaming, recording, and motion detection alerts. With the right setup, you can monitor your living space directly from your new phone.
A top choice for this purpose is Alfred. It’s cross-platform, meaning it works whether your old phone is an Android or iPhone. And the same goes for your new phone.
Alfred is free and provides remote video streaming, motion detection with notifications, cloud storage, two-way audio, and the ability to use both front and rear cameras. For extra features like higher resolution, zoom, ad removal, and 30-day cloud storage, you can upgrade to Alfred Premium.
1. Download Alfred (available for both Android and iOS) on your old and new phones. You can also install it on a tablet or PC for monitoring.
2. Open the app on your new phone, swipe through the introduction and tap Start. Select Viewer and tap Next.
3. At the sign-in page, choose Sign in with Google (you’ll need a Google account) and enter your credentials.
4. On your old phone, repeat the steps but select Camera instead of Viewer, signing in with the same Google account.
Once signed in, your setup is mostly complete. On iOS, your options include enabling motion detection, selecting front or rear cameras, and toggling audio. Android users can additionally enable continuous focus, set a resolution, and activate a passcode lock.
From the new phone, you can modify settings like notification preferences, camera names, and motion detection sensitivity. If Alfred doesn’t meet your needs, consider alternative options like Faceter, EpocCam, or iVCam for varying features.
Step 2: Choose an Optimal Location for Your Security Camera
With your camera app ready, it’s time to position your smartphone. Focus it on crucial entry points, your backyard, or places where valuables are stored. If you have multiple old devices, you can create a comprehensive video monitoring setup.
Step 3: Mount and Power Your Security Camera Smartphone
For mounting, a small smartphone tripod or a suction-cup car mount can be quite effective in placing your camera discreetly. For extended coverage, consider a wide-angle lens, available for $5 to $20 online.
Streaming video can drain battery life quickly, so it’s essential to position the camera near a power source. Use a 10-foot Micro-USB, Lightning, or USB-C cable along with a charger for added flexibility.
Now you can use the security camera app on your new phone to monitor the feed from your old device, effectively enhancing your home’s security without significant costs involved.
Note: When determining placement, steer clear of furnace vents and areas that receive direct sunlight all day; excessive heat can damage your camera over time, especially during intensive tasks like live streaming.
Final Notes: Security Considerations for Old Smartphones
As smartphones age, they eventually stop receiving security updates, making them vulnerable to attacks. If your old phone remains online for monitoring purposes, it poses a risk.
Wipe any personal data before turning it into a camera, automate updates when achievable, and consider setting a final use date for the device. Generally, manufacturers push security updates for about five to seven years post-release.
If you’re eager to enhance your smartphone’s role in home security, consider installing apps like Hidden Camera Detector to check for any unauthorized cameras when traveling.
For additional insights, browse the best DIY home security systems available today.
Generally, security concerns with these apps are minimal, with rarely any reports of hacking. The main risks come from using older phones that no longer receive security updates.
Apps like Alfred include low-light modes designed to enhance visibility in darker settings. While not true night vision, they are adequate for most low-light conditions.
Yes, features like two-way audio are available through apps such as Alfred, allowing communication via your phone’s speakers.