How to Use Old iPhone as Security Camera

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

Using an Old iPhone as a Security Camera

Don’t let your old iPhone gather dust! Even older models like the iPhone 3G and 4 are powerful enough to serve as compact, efficient security cameras for your home. Instead of discarding or selling your old iPhone for a fraction of its original price, consider transforming it into a valuable home security device.

The iOS App Store offers several apps capable of converting your iPhone into a smart home camera, notably Alfred and AtHome Video Streamer. However, while your old iPhone can be an excellent indoor security camera, it may not be suitable for outdoor use.

Alfred

Alfred is a top choice for converting your old iPhone into a security camera. This cross-platform app lets you pair your old iPhone with an Android device, enabling seamless security monitoring.
Alfred offers free cloud storage, motion detection with alerts, a remote live feed, two-way audio, and the use of both front and rear cameras without any cost. For additional features like 30-day cloud storage, ad removal, high-resolution recording, and zoom capabilities, consider subscribing to Alfred Premium. The setup is straightforward:

1. Download the Alfred app on both your old and current phones.
2. On your current phone, skip the intro and select ‘Start.’
3. Choose ‘Viewer’ and click ‘Next.’
4. Sign in with your Google account at the sign-in page.
5. On your old iPhone, follow the same steps but select ‘Camera’ to enable recording.
6. Use the same Google account to log in to both devices.
7. After signing in and scanning the QR code from your new phone, you’ll have completed the setup. Alfred simplifies the process with minimal settings adjustments.

iOS users can tweak settings like motion detection activation, audio recording preferences, and camera selection. You can also manage viewer settings, add individuals to your ‘Trust Circle,’ adjust notifications, and set motion detection sensitivity through your current phone.

AtHome Streamer

Old iPhone

1. Install ‘AtHome Video Streamer’ from the App Store.
2. Open the app and skip the intro screens.
3. Select ‘Start Now.’
4. Access the ‘Menu’ icon and choose ‘Change Password.’
5. Set a new username and password, then save.
6. Return to ‘Menu’ and go to ‘Homepage.’
7. Note your new phone’s ‘CID’ number for live feed access.
8. Position your old iPhone in your preferred monitoring location.

New iPhone

1. Download ‘AtHome Camera Free’ on your new iPhone.
2. Create an account with ‘Register.’
3. Enter your email and password.
4. Add your old iPhone by selecting ‘CID.’
5. Input the noted CID code along with your username and password.
6. Choose your old iPhone from the menu. Note: the free version supports only one camera.
7. View the live feed, switch cameras, and manage other settings as needed.

Final Thought

Transforming your old iPhone into a security camera is as simple as downloading an app. This cost-effective solution can enhance your home’s security without needing expensive hardware, provided you’re looking for indoor monitoring solutions.

See Also

How to Setup Swann Camera on iPhone

How Do People Spy on Phone Cameras

How to Reset Blink Camera