DIY Home Security: Turn Old Phones into Free Security Cameras

Updated at: 14/06/2025

Worried about home security but don't want to break the bank? Turn those old smartphones gathering dust into powerful, free security cameras! This simple DIY project requires minimal tech skills and inexpensive materials. Learn how to repurpose your old devices, transforming them into effective surveillance tools for peace of mind and enhanced home protection. Get started today and secure your home without spending a fortune.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. App Installation and Account Setup

    • Download the Alfred app on your current phone (viewer).
    • Download the Alfred app on your old phone(s) (camera).
    • Sign in to Alfred with your Google account on both your current phone (as viewer) and old phones (as camera). Select 'viewer' on the main phone and 'camera' on the old phones.
    Sign in to Alfred with your Google account on both your current phone (as viewer) and old phones (as camera). Select 'viewer' on the main phone and 'camera' on the old phones. Sign in to Alfred with your Google account on both your current phone (as viewer) and old phones (as camera). Select 'viewer' on the main phone and 'camera' on the old phones.
    App Installation and Account Setup

  2. Device Linking

    • Link your old phone(s) to your main phone via QR code or Google account.
    Link your old phone(s) to your main phone via QR code or Google account.
    Device Linking

  3. Camera Configuration

    • Configure camera settings on your old phone(s) – choose camera (front/rear), enable/disable audio, and adjust motion detection.
    Configure camera settings on your old phone(s) – choose camera (front/rear), enable/disable audio, and adjust motion detection.
    Camera Configuration

  4. Advanced Settings and User Management

    • Configure additional settings (on your main phone) such as adding trusted users and adjusting motion detection sensitivity.
    Configure additional settings (on your main phone) such as adding trusted users and adjusting motion detection sensitivity.
    Advanced Settings and User Management

  5. Camera Placement and Power

    • Mount your old phone(s) in strategic locations (entry points, backyard, valuable item storage areas).
    • Plug in your old phone(s) to a power source and put Alfred in power-saving mode to conserve battery.
    Plug in your old phone(s) to a power source and put Alfred in power-saving mode to conserve battery. Plug in your old phone(s) to a power source and put Alfred in power-saving mode to conserve battery.
    Camera Placement and Power
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Tips

  • Consider using a wide-angle lens to broaden the camera’s field of view.
  • Use a smartphone tripod or suction cup mount for better placement and stability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Poor Network Connectivity

Reason: Weak Wi-Fi signal or unstable internet connection leads to dropped frames, poor video quality, and unreliable notifications.
Solution: Use a Wi-Fi extender or move the old phone closer to the router for a stronger signal.

2. Insufficient Storage Space

Reason: The phone's internal storage fills up, stopping recording or causing the app to crash.
Solution: Use a cloud storage service or regularly delete old recordings to free up space.

3. Ignoring Battery Life

Reason: A low battery will render your security camera useless, potentially during a critical event.
Solution: Keep the phone plugged into a power source constantly or use a phone with excellent battery life.

FAQs

What apps do I need to turn my old phone into a security camera?
There are several free apps available on both the Google Play Store (Android) and the Apple App Store (iOS) that can turn your old phone into a security camera. Popular choices include AlfredCamera, Manything, and IP Webcam. Each app has slightly different features, so research to find one that best suits your needs.