If you’ve recently upgraded to a newer iPhone model, your old device might be sitting in a drawer collecting dust. But that outdated phone still packs a punch—and with a little creativity, you can breathe new life into it. Wondering what to do with your old iPhone? Here are 15 practical and inventive ways to make the most out of it.
1. Turn It Into a Home Security Camera
Your old iPhone can easily become a wireless security camera using built-in camera features or dedicated apps. Mount it in a key area of your home and use it to monitor pets, packages, or as a baby monitor.
2. Create a Dedicated Music Player
Clear out all non-essential apps and load your favorite tunes onto the device. Pair it with Bluetooth speakers or a docking station and use it exclusively for music—perfect for workouts, parties, or around the house.
3. Use It as a GPS Device for Your Car
Mount it on your dashboard and run GPS apps like Apple Maps or Google Maps. Since it no longer needs to handle calls or texts, it can serve as a distraction-free navigation device.
4. Repurpose It as a Smart Home Controller
Use your old iPhone to control smart home devices such as lights, thermostats, and security systems. Keep it stationed in one room as your go-to smart home remote.
5. Set It Up as a Kid-Friendly Entertainment Device
Wipe the phone and install age-appropriate games, videos, and learning apps. Add parental controls and it becomes a safe device for your child to use during car rides or downtime.
6. Make It a Portable eBook or Audiobook Reader
Apps like Apple Books, Kindle, or Audible work great on older iPhones. Turn it into your portable library and listen to books on the go or during commutes.
7. Convert It Into a Digital Photo Frame
Use an app or set a looping slideshow of your favorite memories. Place it on your desk or a shelf to enjoy a rotating display of family photos.
8. Use It as a Voice Recorder or Notepad
Whether you’re in meetings, lectures, or brainstorming sessions, your old iPhone can become a dedicated voice recorder or digital notepad.
9. Keep It as a Travel Phone
Avoid roaming charges by using your old iPhone with a local SIM card when traveling. It’s a cost-effective and convenient way to stay connected abroad.
10. Use It as a Webcam or Conference Call Device
With the rise of remote work, your old iPhone can double as a webcam using apps like Camo. It’s also great for Zoom or FaceTime calls without tying up your main phone.
11. Turn It Into a Backup Phone
Keep your old iPhone charged and updated in case your current device gets lost, damaged, or stolen. It’s a handy insurance policy that can save you in a pinch.
12. Develop and Test iOS Apps
If you’re into app development, your old iPhone is a great testing device. You can install beta versions or use it to try out different app configurations without risking your primary phone.
13. Use It as a Learning Tool
Want to learn a new language, instrument, or skill? Load your old iPhone with educational apps, language lessons, or video courses and turn it into a personal learning assistant.
14. Create a Mobile Game Console
Install your favorite games and pair it with a Bluetooth controller. Your old iPhone can become a compact, portable gaming console for on-the-go entertainment.
15. Donate or Gift It
If your old iPhone is still in decent shape, consider donating it to a school, charity, or someone in need. Alternatively, give it to a family member who needs a simple phone for basic tasks.
Final Thoughts
An old iPhone doesn’t have to go to waste. Whether you’re interested in security, entertainment, or productivity, your retired device can be transformed into something useful and enjoyable. So next time you’re cleaning out your tech drawer, think twice before tossing that trusty iPhone—there’s still plenty it can do.
