Repurposing an old smartphone as a home security camera is a cost-effective way to enhance your home’s security. Here’s how you can turn your retired smartphone into a DIY home security camera:
Step 1: Choose a Security Camera App
There are several apps available that can transform your old smartphone into a security camera. Some popular options include:
- Alfred Camera : A free app with features like motion detection, two-way audio, night vision, and cloud storage options. It allows you to monitor multiple cameras from a single viewer device.
- AtHome Camera : This app uses AI technology for 24/7 live streaming, face recognition, and the ability to edit recorded footage.
- Presence: A free app that sends push notifications to your current phone when it detects motion or sound on the old device.
Step 2: Install the App
Once you’ve chosen an app, install it on both your old smartphone (which will act as the camera) and your current smartphone (which will be the viewer device). Create an account if required and follow the app’s instructions to pair the two devices.
Step 3: Set Up the Camera
Position your old smartphone in a strategic location where you want to monitor activity, such as entryways, living rooms, or nurseries. Ensure it has a clear view and is within range of your Wi-Fi network. You may need to keep the old phone plugged into a power source, as the battery life may be limited.
Step 4: Configure Settings
Most security camera apps offer various settings to customize your experience. You can adjust motion detection sensitivity, enable night vision mode, set up two-way audio, and configure recording options (continuous or motion-triggered).
Step 5: Test and Monitor
Once everything is set up, test the camera feed from your viewer device to ensure it’s working correctly. You can now monitor your home remotely and receive notifications whenever motion or sound is detected.
A Budget-Friendly Solution!
While using an old smartphone as a security camera can be a budget-friendly solution, it’s important to note that it may not offer the same level of performance, reliability, or advanced features as dedicated home security cameras. However, for basic monitoring needs or temporary setups, repurposing an old device can be a practical option.
With that said, we still recommend you install a proper home security system. You have options, lots of them! From Ring and Blink, to ADT and SimpliSafe. There are self-monitoring services, DIY systems, and then professional-monitored systems that handle everything for you.
When you turn your old smartphone into a home security camera, you’re basically adding a basic camera to your system. Ideally, you would have others set up inside and outside your home.
