Uses for an old Android device

With the right software and a couple minutes of configuration, your old Android device can act as an on-demand controller for your Windows, Mac, or Linux computer. Even the junkiest old Android device has ample power to serve as a smart remote for your home or office. You can then keep the old Android device on your desk or coffee table and use it as a hub for wirelessly casting content - everything from Netflix and YouTube to TED Talks, CNBC, and Google Slides - to your TV. Install an app to make your old Android device a dedicated remote for components like TVs, cable boxes, and DVD players. Such programs are available from brands like Panasonic, Comcast Xfinity, AT&T U-verse, DirecTV, Roku, and Android TV. Set up a full-fledged media server using Plex, then use your old device as a dedicated remote to stream your own local content to a TV. 4. Who needs a fancy-schmancy connected camera when you've got an old Android phone sitting around? With the aid of a third-party app, the camera on your dated device can let you keep an eye on your home, office, or top-secret crime lair from anywhere - and even perform advanced functions like video recording and motion detection. Set up your old Android device with the app for your video-chatting platform of choice - Skype, Hangouts Meet, Google Duo, or whatever the case may be - then drop it into a dock on your desk or conference room table. Want a distraction-free reading environment for your next business trip or public transit commute? Load up your old Android device with only the apps you need for reading - Google Play Books, Amazon Kindle, Nook, or whatever tickles your text-ingesting fancy.