If you’ve recently upgraded to a new smartphone and find yourself wondering what to do with your old Windows phone, don’t let it gather dust in a drawer. There are plenty of creative ways you can make use of your old device, from repurposing it as a dedicated media player or smart home hub to donating it to a charitable cause or simply using it as an emergency backup phone. In this article, we’ll explore five innovative ideas to help you get the most out of your old Windows phone and put it to good use.
Transform Your Old Windows Phone Into A Dedicated Music Player
If you have an old Windows Phone lying around and you’re looking for a new use for it, why not turn it into a dedicated music player? With its ample storage capacity and built-in music player app, your old smartphone can become the perfect device for playing your favorite tunes.
To repurpose your Windows Phone as a music player, start by transferring all your favorite songs onto the device. You can either sync your music library from your computer or download them directly onto the phone using music streaming apps.
Next, invest in a good pair of headphones or connect your phone to a portable speaker for an enhanced listening experience. Use the built-in music player app to create playlists, shuffle songs, and adjust sound settings to your liking.
With your old Windows Phone acting as a dedicated music player, you can save the battery life on your current phone and utilize your old device in a meaningful way. Whether you use it for workouts, relaxing at home, or during your commute, your old Windows Phone can bring new life to your music collection.
Turn your old smartphone into a surveillance camera with DIY apps
Many people have old smartphones lying around that they no longer use. Instead of letting them gather dust, why not repurpose them as a home surveillance camera? This can be a cost-effective solution to monitor your home or keep an eye on pets while you’re away.
To turn your old Windows Phone into a surveillance camera, you can utilize various DIY apps available in the app store. These apps typically allow you to transform your device into a security camera, enabling you to stream live video, capture images, and even receive motion alerts on your current smartphone.
One popular app for this purpose is “Alfred,” which provides features like two-way communication, motion detection, and cloud storage for recorded videos. Another option is “Presence,” which offers remote viewing, a siren alarm, and the ability to use multiple devices as cameras for multiple angles.
Overall, repurposing your old Windows Phone as a surveillance camera not only gives it a new lease on life but also enhances the security of your home without spending much money.
Utilize Your Old Windows Phone As A Standalone E-reader
Do you love reading but don’t want to invest in a separate e-reader device? Don’t worry, your old Windows Phone can double up as a dedicated e-reader with just a few simple steps.
First, make sure to transfer all your favorite e-books to your phone. There are numerous e-book reader apps available on the Microsoft Store that you can download for free. Popular options include Amazon Kindle, Nook, and Adobe Digital Editions.
Once you have the e-reader app installed, customize the reading experience to your liking. Adjust font sizes, backgrounds, and margins to enhance readability. Many apps also offer features like bookmarking, highlighting, and note-taking, making it easier for you to engage with the content.
Using your old Windows Phone as an e-reader has numerous advantages. It’s lightweight, portable, and allows you to carry your entire library in one device. Plus, you can access additional books and content through online stores and libraries.
So instead of letting your old Windows Phone gather dust, repurpose it as your personal e-library and enjoy the pleasure of reading anytime, anywhere.
Give Your Old Smartphone A Second Life As A Digital Photo Frame
If you have an old Windows Phone lying around, why not repurpose it into a digital photo frame? By turning your phone into a dedicated photo display, you can showcase your favorite memories and add a personal touch to your home or office.
To start, you’ll need to find a suitable app that can turn your phone into a digital photo frame. There are several options available in the Microsoft Store, such as “Digital Live Tile Clock” or “Photo Frame 10.” Install one of these apps on your old Windows Phone, and it will transform your device into a slideshow of your selected photos.
Next, gather your favorite pictures and transfer them to your phone. You can either use a USB cable to connect your phone to a computer and transfer the photos manually, or you can use cloud storage services like OneDrive to sync your photo library.
Once you have the app installed and your photos ready, simply set your phone up in a convenient location and plug it into a power source. You can customize the settings within the app to control the slideshow duration, transition effects, and other display preferences.
By repurposing your old Windows Phone into a digital photo frame, you not only bring new life to an unused device, but you also get to enjoy cherished memories every time you glance at the screen.
Repurpose Your Windows Phone As A Dedicated GPS Device
If you have an old Windows Phone lying around, why not repurpose it as a dedicated GPS device? With the right apps and settings, you can transform your smartphone into a reliable navigation tool for your car or outdoor adventures.
To make the most of your old Windows Phone as a GPS device, start by downloading a navigation app such as HERE Maps or MapFactor GPS Navigation. These apps offer offline maps, turn-by-turn directions, and other essential features even without an active internet connection.
Next, ensure that your phone has a stable and secure mount, preferably one designed specifically for cars. This will allow you to attach your device easily to your vehicle’s dashboard or windshield, ensuring clear visibility while driving.
Repurposing your Windows Phone as a dedicated GPS device can be especially handy during road trips or hiking trips where you may not have reliable internet access or want to save your data. It also saves your current smartphone’s battery life, as you won’t have to drain it while using navigation. So, instead of letting your old Windows Phone gather dust, give it a new purpose as your trusty GPS companion.
Convert Your Old Smartphone Into A Portable Gaming Console
If you have an old Windows Phone lying around and you’re a gaming enthusiast, why not repurpose it into a portable gaming console? With the advancement of gaming apps and emulators, you can transform your smartphone into a mini gaming machine.
First, you’ll need to install gaming apps that are compatible with Windows Phone. The Windows Store offers a variety of games, including popular titles like Minecraft, Asphalt, and Grand Theft Auto. Additionally, there are emulators available that allow you to play retro console games on your device.
To enhance your gaming experience, consider investing in a Bluetooth game controller that can connect to your old Windows Phone. This will provide you with better control and precision while playing. Some controllers even come with a phone mount, allowing you to attach your smartphone securely.
Once you have everything set up, you can enjoy gaming on the go without having to invest in a new gaming console. Plus, you’ll be able to relive the nostalgia of playing classic games from your childhood. So dust off that old Windows Phone and turn it into a gaming console for endless entertainment.
Explore The World Of Home Automation Using Your Old Windows Phone
With advancements in technology, home automation has become more accessible and affordable for homeowners. And your old Windows Phone can play a crucial role in this smart transformation. By repurposing it for home automation, you can control various devices and systems in your house with just a few taps on your phone’s screen.
Using your old Windows Phone, you can connect to smart home devices such as smart lights, thermostats, door locks, security cameras, and more. By installing compatible apps, you can easily control and monitor these devices remotely. For example, you can turn off the lights, adjust the temperature, or even lock the doors while you’re away from home.
You can also set up routines and automation sequences using your old Windows Phone. These routines can include actions like turning on specific lights when you enter a room, playing your favorite music when you wake up, or even adjusting the temperature based on the time of day.
Transforming your old Windows Phone into a hub for home automation not only maximizes its potential but also enhances your overall smart home experience. So, don’t let your old device go to waste; give it a new purpose by exploring the world of home automation.
Transform Your Old Smartphone Into A Smart Mirror Or Digital Signage Display
If you’re looking for a unique and practical way to repurpose your old Windows Phone, consider transforming it into a smart mirror or digital signage display. With a few modifications and the right apps, you can turn your device into a functional and stylish addition to your home or office.
As a smart mirror, your old smartphone can display the time, weather updates, calendar events, and even your favorite news headlines or social media feeds. By mounting it behind a two-way mirror, you can create a sleek and futuristic-looking mirror that is also functional.
Alternatively, you can repurpose your Windows Phone as a digital signage display. This can be particularly useful for businesses or events where you want to display important information or advertisements. Simply install a digital signage app and connect your device to a wall-mounted screen or TV, and you’ll have a cost-effective and dynamic display solution.
Whether you choose to create a smart mirror or a digital signage display, repurposing your old Windows Phone in this way can add a touch of innovation to your space while making the most of your device.
FAQs
1. Can I use my old Windows Phone as a dedicated music player?
Yes, you can repurpose your old Windows Phone as a standalone music player. Simply remove any unnecessary apps and transfer your music library onto the device. You can use it with Bluetooth headphones or connect it to speakers for an enhanced audio experience.
2. Is it possible to turn my old Windows Phone into a portable gaming console?
Absolutely! With app stores still available for Windows Phones, you can transform your old device into a portable gaming console. Install popular games and enjoy gaming on a larger screen compared to traditional handheld gaming consoles.
3. Are there any innovative uses for my old Windows Phone in a smart home setup?
Certainly! Your old Windows Phone can serve as a remote control for your smart home devices. Download relevant apps and control features like lighting, thermostat, security cameras, and more from the comfort of your phone. It can become a convenient hub for managing your smart home ecosystem.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are numerous creative ways to make the most of an old Windows phone. Whether it’s transforming it into a dedicated music player, a surveillance camera, a smart home controller, a portable gaming device, or simply repurposing it as a backup device, these ideas ensure that the phone remains valuable even after its primary use. By exploring these options, individuals can continue to extract value from their old Windows phones while also embracing new and innovative possibilities.