Baby monitors are essential devices for new parents, providing an extra set of eyes and ears to keep a close watch over their angels, even from a distance. But did you know you could use your old iPhone as a handy and clever baby monitor? This may not only save you a few bucks, but also contribute to reducing e-waste and make your life a little bit more manageable.
Advantages of Using an Old iPhone as a Baby Monitor
Converting your old iPhone into a baby monitor may sound a bit unconventional, but this practical reuse of technology has several compelling benefits.
Cost-Effectiveness
First and foremost, it’s cost-effective. Top-rated baby monitors can be a significant financial investment, often ranging from $100 to as high as $300. In contrast, repurposing an iPhone that’s already gathering dust in a drawer somewhere is both thrifty and savvy.
Convenience
Using an old iPhone as a baby monitor is incredibly convenient, particularly if you’re already an Apple product user. You can get all the notifications on your current device without needing an additional tool to carry around or keep track of.
Flexibility and Portability
Baby monitors created out of iPhones are flexible, portable, and customizable to your lifestyle. Whether you’re upstairs handling laundry, or in your home office catching up on emails, you can monitor your little one from any room in your house.
Eco-Friendly Repurposing
Finally, this initiative encourages the eco-friendly practice of device repurposing, preventing your old iPhone from ending up in a landfill, and thus reducing electronic waste.
Essential Requirements to Transform an Old iPhone into a Baby Monitor
There are several prerequisites for converting your old iPhone into an impromptu baby monitor.
The most obvious requirement is a working iPhone with an operational camera and microphone. The device should also be capable of connecting to a stable Wi-Fi network – without a reliable Wi-Fi connection, your monitoring system will be as good as inactive.
One of the most crucial elements you’ll need is a suitable baby monitoring app installed on both the monitoring iPhone and your primary device. Primary devices can include your current smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Lastly, as the iPhone will be used consistently for long periods, a power source is necessary, whether it’s a power bank, wall charger, or extended battery life case.
Steps to Convert an Old iPhone into a Baby Monitor
To transform your iPhone into a DIY baby monitor, follow these simple steps.
The first order of business is to track down and download compatible baby monitoring software. Many applications on the market can fulfill this requirement, some free while others require a payment. Particulars on the recommended apps will be discussed later in the article.
Once you have the application installed, it’s time to set it up. While the process will vary slightly depending on the software, in general, you’ll designate one device (the older iPhone) as the “baby station,” and the other (your current device) as the “parent station.”
Configuring the old iPhone involves setting up specific notifications, choosing the quality of video, and deciding other preferences like night vision settings. You might run into a few bumps in the process, like connectivity issues, camera access denial, or problems with notifications. Luckily, these obstacles can usually be sorted out by looking through the specific app’s troubleshooting guides or FAQs.
Recommended Baby Monitoring Apps for iPhone
Several highly-rated apps can transform your iPhone into a baby monitor with a bevy of useful features.
Cloud Baby Monitor is a popular choice, boasting extensive features like live video, noise and motion alerts, and even lullaby playback. It does come with a price tag, but most parents find the one-time investment worth it for the peace of mind it provides.
Another excellent choice is Baby Monitor 3G. An affordable option, it offers audio and video monitoring, vibration alerts, and activity logs. One significant downside is its lack of a free version.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, Baby Monitor & Alarm is an excellent app with just the basics – providing reliable audio monitoring, noise-based alerts, and even a ‘Mum’s voice’ function, which plays a pre-recorded message from you when the baby wakes up.
Considerations when choosing an app should include availability, features, pricing, and compatibility with your devices.
Safety Measures when Using an Old iPhone as a Baby Monitor
While using an old iPhone as a baby monitor is convenient and cost-effective, certain safety measures must be observed.
The positioning of your iPhone is critical. It should be placed at a distance where it can capture the baby’s entire crib but out of the baby’s reach.
Keeping the iPhone adequately powered is essential. You can make use of an extended battery life case or keep it plugged into a charger. However, be wary of potential overheating problems, so find a cool, shaded area for your device.
Ensure your Wi-Fi connection remains stable. Connectivity is crucial to keep your surveillance uninterrupted.
Lastly, while iPhones and the apps offer many modern features, they are not foolproof and should not completely replace adult supervision.
Conclusion
Repurposing an old iPhone into a baby monitor can be a smart way to get extra mileage out of your device while adding a layer of security for your baby. Not only is it practical and cost-effective, but it’s also a handy solution for parents seeking a modern monitoring method.
So, why not dust off that old iPhone and turn it into an essential tool for your child’s safety? It exemplifies how we can utilize technology in innovative ways to adapt to the increasing demands of modern parenthood.
At the end of the day, it’s not just about convenience or cost-saving. It’s about the peace of mind that comes from knowing your baby is safe and sound, even when you’re not in the same room.
