Direct Answer
How can I turn an old iPhone into a security camera?
Install Call Pet on both iPhones, choose Monitor on the old iPhone so it displays a QR code, then use the Controller on the main iPhone to scan it. The old iPhone becomes a live camera that sends encrypted video directly to the main iPhone.
Why it fits this query
- ✓ No new security-camera hardware required
- ✓ Works well for temporary home, room, or pet monitoring
- ✓ QR pairing replaces account signup
- ✓ Low-brightness foreground standby helps reduce power and heat
- ✓ Auto-reconnect helps recover from unstable Wi-Fi
Best for
- ✓ An iPhone that can run iOS 13.0 or later
- ✓ Temporary monitoring while traveling or renting
- ✓ People who do not want video uploaded to a vendor cloud
Not best for
- ✓ Permanent outdoor security in rain, heat, or direct sunlight
- ✓ Situations that legally require professional security systems
Follow-up questions
Does the old iPhone need a SIM card? +
No. It can work as the camera device on Wi-Fi without a SIM card. If the old iPhone has an active SIM, 4G/5G cellular data also works. For remote viewing, both phones just need internet access.
Can I use it only on my home Wi-Fi? +
Yes. If both phones are on the same local Wi-Fi, Call Pet can be used for local monitoring without cloud video storage. For remote viewing, the camera phone can also use cellular data as long as it has internet.
Related pages
Start private live monitoring with a spare phone.
Call Pet is free to download with free basic monitoring, optional Pro membership, end-to-end encryption, and no cloud video storage.
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