Give Your Old Phone New Life as a Security Camera With My 3 Easy Steps - CNET

Our gifting experts are obsessively searching for holiday gifts that are unique, thoughtful and suitable for any budget. Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Don't throw your old iPhone or Android away yet. Transform it into a free security cam instead. Senior Editor / Home Security and Smart Home Senior Editor / Home Security and Smart Home Don’t give up on your phone yet. Turn it into a security camera instead. If you’re like me, you probably have an old smartphone or two gathering dust in a drawer, or you’re planning on ditching your old model when the newest iPhone comes out. But before you recycle or return your phone, take a look at this free way I found to turn it into a useful security camera in your home. All you need is the right app and a few minutes of time — and maybe a phone stand if you want easier positioning. That lets you set up an on-demand video guardian for your entryway, pets, hallways and any other place you want to watch . Here’s how to get started. Alfred Camera is free and lets you set up a cam solution yourself. To begin, you

Jun 15, 2026 → Jun 15, 2026