Unused Tech Gadgets: What to Do With Them
In every home, there are certain devices and appliances that we simply don’t use as often as we used to. It may be a phone that’s been replaced by a newer model or a tablet or old computer that’s been gathering dust in a closet.
Sure, you could sell them or give them away, but why not get a little more creative? There are plenty of ways to repurpose your old tech gadgets and give them new life. Whatever the case, you can easily put these old devices to good use in a smart home.
Here are some great ways to repurpose your unused tech gadgets and make your smart home even smarter.
1. Turn Your Old Tablet Into a Digital Photo Frame
One of the best ways to repurpose an unused tablet is to turn it into a digital photo frame. This is a great way to display photos of your family and friends, as well as your own personal artwork.
To do this, simply find a photo album app that is compatible with your tablet’s operating system and start creating albums. Once you have your albums set up, you can set the app to display the photos in a slideshow format.
Most tablet photo album apps also allow you to set the photos change interval. This way, you can change the photos every few seconds or minutes, depending on your preference.
If you want to get a little more creative, there are plenty of free apps to turn photos into art and paintings. This can add a personal touch to your digital photo frame and make it even more unique.
2. Turn Your Old Phone or Tablet Into a Security Camera
Security cameras are a great way to keep an eye on your home, even when you’re not there.
But if you’re looking for a more affordable option, you can turn your old phone or tablet into a security camera. There are plenty of apps that allow you to do this, and most of them are free to download. If you’re feeling techie, you can even build your own security camera system to keep an eye on things.
To turn your phone or tablet into a security camera, simply download a compatible app and follow the instructions. Once the app is set up, you’ll be able to view the camera feed from your phone or tablet.
Most of these apps also allow you to record footage and even snap photos. This can be a great way to keep an eye on your home while you’re away.
The only thing you need to invest in is a phone or tablet mount. Once you find a place to position your device so that it has a clear view of the area you want to monitor, you’ll be all set to keep an eye on your home from anywhere in the world.
3. Turn Your Old Tablet Into a Second Monitor
If you often find yourself working at a desk with a laptop, you may want to consider turning your old tablet into a second monitor. This can be a great way to increase your productivity and make multitasking easier.
There are plenty of apps that allow you to do this, and most of them are very easy to set up. Once the app is installed, simply connect your tablet to your laptop via USB and follow the instructions.
Once the tablet is connected, you’ll be able to use it as an extra monitor. This can come in handy when you need to reference documents or web pages while you’re working on something else.
4. Turn Your Old Phone or Tablet Into a Smart TV Remote
Tired of losing your TV remote? If you have an old phone or tablet lying around, you can turn it into a smart TV remote. This can be a great way to keep track of your remote, as well as add some extra features.
Most TV remote apps for Android and iPhone are very easy to set up. Simply download the app and follow the instructions. Once the app is set up, you’ll be able to control your TV with your phone or tablet.
Most TV remote apps allow you to control the volume, change the channel, and even browse through your TV’s menu. This can be a great way to control your TV without having to search for the remote.
5. Use Your Old Computer or Laptop as a Media Streaming Server
Streaming music and movies is a great way to entertain guests or relax after a long day. But if you don’t have a streaming device, you can use your old computer or laptop as a media streaming server.
Turning your old laptop or PC into a Plex media server or any other streaming server is a great way to get more use out of it. Not only will you be able to stream media, but you’ll also be able to store and organize your media files easily.
This can be a great way to get the most out of your old computer or laptop. And it’s a great way to entertain guests with your impressive media collection.
6. Use Your Old Phone or Tablet as a Baby Monitor
Babies can be a handful, but with a little help, you can keep an eye on them while you’re getting things done around the house. If you have an old phone or tablet lying around, you can turn it into a baby monitor.
With a little help from a baby monitor app, you can easily keep an eye on your little one. These apps allow you to view the camera feed from your phone or tablet. You can also use the app to listen to your baby’s cries and coos.
Most baby monitor apps also allow you to record footage and take photos. This can be a great way to capture special moments or keep an eye on your baby while you’re away.
Old Devices Make Great Smart Home Gadgets
With a little creativity, you can turn your old tech gadgets into smart home devices. These devices can be a great way to save money and get more use out of your old devices.
So, if you have some old tech gadgets lying around, don’t throw them away. Put them to good use and make your home a little smarter.
