**Old Phones Can Be Repurposed as Low-Cost Security Cameras** In a bid to reduce waste and save costs, individuals can repurpose their old Android or iPhone devices as security cameras. This approach leverages the existing features of these phones, including their cameras, Wi-Fi connectivity, and storage capabilities. According to a recent experiment, an old phone can be transformed into a functional security camera with the help of a free security camera app and a stable Wi-Fi connection. **Key Requirements** To turn an old phone into a security camera, users need the following: an old iPhone or Android phone, a free security camera app (such as Alfred Camera), a second device to view the feed, a stable Wi-Fi connection, and a nearby power source to keep the phone running. A few free security camera apps are available for both Android and iOS devices, including Alfred Camera, Faceter, EpocCam, and iVCam. **Step 1: Install a Free Security Camera App** Installing a free security camera app is the first step in repurposing an old phone. Elyse Betters Picaro, a writer for *ZDNET*, recommends Alfred Camera, which offers a free tier with features such as live view, alerts, and two-way audio. To install the app, users must create a free account on their main device and then scan a QR code with their old phone to connect the two devices. Once connected, users can set their main phone to Viewer mode and the old phone to Camera mode. **Step 2: Find the Best Placement** After installing the security camera app, users must find the best placement for their old phone. This involves pointing the camera at the desired monitoring area to determine the optimal position. According to Betters Picaro, it's essential to keep the phone on Wi-Fi and plugged in for continuous home monitoring. **Additional Considerations** While repurposing an old phone as a security camera may seem like a convenient solution, users should be aware of the limitations. Older models may lose security updates over time, which could compromise their security. Additionally, users may need to consider the battery life of their old phone, as it may not be as efficient as a dedicated security camera.