Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Wondering what you can use your old phone for? Even without cellular service, it may still work as a webcam, camera monitor, music player or—if its hardware supports it—a small power source. The right second job depends on what still works: the camera, battery, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, operating-system support and physical ports.
Choose a second job that fits the phone
Start with the parts that still work and whether the phone can safely stay powered for its new role. A phone may remain useful on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth even after its mobile service ends, but app compatibility depends on the specific device and its software.
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| Use | What needs to work | Connectivity or setup | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Webcam | Camera and compatible software | Computer connection supported by the chosen app | Phone, computer and video-call app compatibility |
| Camera monitor | Camera, stable battery and a usable display for setup | Typically Wi-Fi and a compatible camera/viewer app | Safe placement, power, live view and alerts |
| Music or casting device | Working speakers or headphone connection | Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for streaming/casting; local files can work offline | Whether current apps support the phone’s operating system |
| USB-C power sharing | USB-C port and device support for power output | USB-C-to-USB-C cable | Manufacturer documentation; USB-C alone does not guarantee this feature |
1. Use the camera as a webcam
A phone with a working camera can serve as a webcam through compatible software, as Sony’s old-phone suggestions describe. The exact app and connection method depend on the phone and computer; do not assume a particular app still supports an older operating system.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors- Check that the chosen webcam app supports both the phone’s software version and the computer’s operating system.
- Connect the devices using the method the app supports, such as Wi-Fi, USB or another documented connection.
- Select the phone as the camera in the app you actually use for video calls, then test framing, focus, audio and connection stability before relying on it.
This is a practical way to reuse a functional camera, not a guarantee of better image quality than your computer’s built-in camera.
#1 Best Overall
- LMQ 22 pcs opening pry tools kit for smart phone,laptop,computer tablet,electronics, apple watch, iPad, iPod, computer, LCD screen, battery and more disassembly and repair.
- Professional grade stainless steel construction spudger tool kit ensures repeated use
- Includes 7 plastic pry tool and 2 steel pry tools, one ESD tweezers
- The electronics laptop repair tool kit for every repair worker and hobbyist!
- Easy to replacement the screen cover, fit for any plastic pry tool such as smartphone / tablets etc
2. Turn it into a camera monitor
A spare phone can show a live view from another device for a simple room or door check. For example, SpareCam describes an Android setup that pairs one phone as the camera with another as the viewer. Its instructions are vendor guidance, not independent testing or a security certification. Treat this as a convenience project, not a replacement for a purpose-built baby-monitor or security system.
Set it up and test it
- Confirm the app supports both phones and their current operating-system versions; setup and availability can change.
- Place the camera phone on a stable stand with a clear view, keeping the lens and ventilation unobstructed.
- Use reliable power only if the battery and phone are in sound condition. SpareCam warns against using a device with a swollen, damaged or unstable battery, and advises keeping it away from direct sun and fabric that could block airflow.
- Test the live view, connection and any alerts from the viewer phone before depending on them.
See SpareCam’s setup and placement guidance for its Android example. Do not leave a questionable battery plugged in unattended.
Rank #2
- Kaisi 20 pcs opening pry tools kit for smart phone,laptop,computer tablet,electronics, apple watch, iPad, iPod, Macbook, computer, LCD screen, battery and more disassembly and repair
- Professional grade stainless steel construction spudger tool kit ensures repeated use
- Includes 7 plastic nylon pry tools and 2 steel pry tools, two ESD tweezers
- Includes 1 protective film tools and three screwdriver, 1 magic cloth，cleaning cloths are great for cleaning the screen of mobile phone and laptop after replacement.
- Easy to replacement the screen cover, fit for any plastic cover case such as smartphone / tablets etc
3. Keep it as a music or casting device
A phone with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth can stream or cast music, while downloaded tracks and wired headphones may still be useful when connectivity is limited. Sony outlines these options in its old-phone suggestions. A dedicated playback device also keeps music separate from calls and notifications on your everyday phone.
Check the current app listing before planning around a streaming service: support for very old operating systems is not universal. If the phone can no longer run the service you want, locally stored music or a compatible Bluetooth speaker or headphones may still make it useful.
Rank #3
- 【59 in 1 Precision Screwdriver Set】Small screwdriver set contains 44 screwdriver bits, Phillips PH000,PH00,PH0,PH1,PH2; Flathead -1.0, -1.5 -2.0,-3.0; Torx T1 T2 T3 T4 T5, Torx security TR6 TR7 TR8 TR9 TR10 TR15 TR20; Triwing Y0.6, Y1.5. Y2.3, Y3.0; Pentalobe P2(0.8) P5(1.2); Triangle 2.3; U-type U2.6; H-type: H0.9, H1.3, H1.5, H2.0, H2.5, H3.0; MID-type: MID; Sleeve: M2.5, M3.0, M3.5, M4.0, M4.5, Cross 2.0, G3.8, G4.5
- 【Unique Handle Design】Ergonomic design handle, more energy-saving operation, batch head built-in strong magnet, easy to adsorb the batch head. The screwdriver bit is made of high quality CRV steel, which is wear-resistant and hard.
- 【Multi-Functional Accessories】Mini Tool kit contains 15 accessories for a variety of repair needs, including a magnetic plus or minus area to increase or decrease the magnetism of the bit, a long pry bar, a scimitar shaped pry bar, four triangular pry blades, three double-ended pry bars, tweezers, a black cleaning brush, a SIM card thimble, and a suction cup. Note: The package is made of PP material without carton and user manual.
- 【Practical Storage Box】Compartments are categorized for placement, each CRV precision bit is marked with a model number for easy identification, neatly dispensed for easy storage and searching. The box is sturdy and durable with strong clasps that protect each accessory well. The bits are mini (long 28mm, diameter 3.98mm) for precision work, not suitable for large screws.
- 【Wide Scope of Application】Suitable for iPhone/Samsung/Huawei and other cell phones; Mini/Air/Pro and Huawei/Honor and other laptops; Macbook/Air/Pro; Kindle/Kindle Fire; Ring Video Doorbell/ Video Doorbell 2/Pro/Elite; PS4/PS5/XOBX game console controllers and consoles, and PC laptops , watches, glasses, jewelry, toys, flight models, drones, cameras, RC cars, and some small appliances like coffee makers.
4. Try USB-C power sharing—only if the phone supports it
Some compatible phones can send power to another device over USB-C, using a USB-C-to-USB-C cable. Sony includes this as an old-phone use, but the presence of a USB-C port does not establish that a phone supports power output. Check the phone maker’s documentation for the exact model before connecting another device or relying on it as a power source. Sony’s guidance does not establish universal compatibility.
If those options do not fit
Try it as a remote mouse
If the screen still works, compatible software may let the phone act as a remote mouse for a computer. This is another possibility mentioned by Sony, but availability depends on compatible software and devices. Check support for both before setting it up.
Rank #4
- [Compatible Model] - This battery is only compatible with iPhone 14, A2649、A2881、A2884、A2883、A2882. Please confirm your iPhone model before purchase. (Check your iPhone model at the following steps: Settings--General--About--Model Name)
- [High Capacity] - 24000 mAh high capacity, greater than what the original iPhone 14 battery has, which means you don't have to charge your iPhone as frequently as you used to be.
- [Long Lasting] - Brand new 0 cycle battery, designed and tested to last over 1000 cycles. Charging speed and the power conversion rate increase by 90% with new technology.
- [Protection for Safety] - Built-in new upgrade smart tech IC chip to prevent over-charging, over-heating, Short-Circuiting, etc for safety.
- [Package Includes] - Brand new battery replacement for iPhone 14, all required tool kits to replace the battery.Please watch the video on youtube before install the battery.
Check smart-home control before erasing
If the old phone is the only controller for lights, locks or other smart-home devices, confirm that another phone, hub or control method works before erasing or giving it away. The UK National Cyber Security Centre recommends keeping an alternative way to control connected devices when disposing of a phone; see its second-hand device guidance.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
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Prepare it before selling, donating or recycling
If no second job is suitable, remove your personal information before handoff. The exact menus differ by device, software version and account state. Apple’s current iPhone and iPad instructions include this advice: “Before selling, trading or giving the old device away, you can transfer information to your new device and remove personal information from your old device.”
Best Value
- Perfect Match: Only fits Galaxy S10e SM-G970 series. Please check your model carefully.
- High-Grade Cellphone Battery: Zero cycle cell ensures reliable power. For best results, fully charge and discharge three times after installation.
- Easy-to-Apply Adhesive: Battery has pre-attached adhesive. Also includes a back cover adhesive strips for secure, hassle-free installation.
- Step-by-Step Instructions: Clear illustrated guide included. Follow along confidently—even if it’s your first DIY phone repair.
- Complete Tool Set Included: Every tool you’ll need, selected by pros. Safe, efficient, and beginner-friendly for a smooth repair experience.
- Back up any photos, files or other information you want to keep, and make sure you know the passwords for your accounts.
- Check services that use the old phone number and move or reactivate authenticator access before wiping the device.
- Sign out of accounts and linked services, then remove the SIM and any removable memory card.
- Use the manufacturer’s current erase or factory-reset instructions. Address account locks—such as Apple Activation Lock or Android factory reset protection—so the next owner can activate the device.
- Use a manufacturer, wireless provider or local electronics retailer for recycling, or check whether a trade-in is available. Programs and eligibility vary by location and current terms.
Follow Apple’s iPhone and iPad handoff instructions for Apple devices. For broader guidance on backup, reset and account-lock considerations, see the UK National Cyber Security Centre’s device-erasure guidance and the US Federal Trade Commission’s phone privacy and disposal guidance. Apple also describes its trade-in and recycling options; availability and value depend on location and program terms.
Quick Recap
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