An old iPhone or iPad can still be useful, but the right second life depends on its battery, screen, software support, available apps and what you need it to do. Consider these seven options, then check the device’s exact model and software before committing to a setup.
Which use fits your old iPhone or iPad?
Start with four practical questions: Can the device run the app or feature you want? Is its battery, screen or camera usable for that purpose? Does the task need Wi-Fi or cellular access? And will the device stay in one place or travel with you? For sensitive information or accessibility needs, factor in privacy settings and who can help with setup.
| Use | Works best when | Check first |
|---|---|---|
| Music player | You want listening separate from your main phone | Whether your preferred music app still supports the device; downloaded music avoids depending on a streaming app |
| Kitchen reference screen | You want a stationary screen for quick information | Screen readability, network access and a stable place to position it |
| E-reader | Your preferred reading app and content work on it | App and operating-system compatibility, screen condition and battery life |
| Photo display | The screen is in good condition and the photo software suits your needs | Photo app availability, software support and screen condition |
| Simplified communication or media device | A focused interface and larger onscreen items would help | Whether the iPad supports Assistive Access and the features you need |
| Single-purpose device | You want to keep an iPad in one app for a task | Whether that app is suitable and whether supervision is needed |
| Mac accessory | Your exact iPhone or iPad is compatible with a Continuity feature | Apple’s current model and software requirements for the feature |
1. Make it a dedicated music player
Use an older iPhone for music so listening does not compete with the storage, battery or notifications on your main phone. You can keep music downloaded on the device or stream over Wi-Fi if the app still supports its operating system. A 2017 TIME article suggested this reuse idea, but it does not establish that current streaming apps work on every old iPhone.
2. Keep it as a kitchen reference screen
An iPhone can serve as a hands-free screen for quick information, while an iPad may be easier to read in a fixed spot. The idea appeared in the same TIME article. A stand can help position an iPad, but it is optional; first see whether the screen is readable and whether the device can access the information you need.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →#1 Best Overall
- 【Strong Adsorption】The inspiration of the silicone phone suction case comes from the adhesive force of the octopus. Each suction cup phone mount is 3.15 inches long and 2.17 inches wide, with 24 independent suction cups providing a stronger and more stable suction force, so you don't have to worry about your phone falling during use.
- 【Back of Phone Suction Grip】Remove the adhesive film on the phone suction cup and stick it on the phone case. You can then fix the phone on any smooth surface, which is very convenient. (The phone suction cup cannot be removed and reused after being attached to the phone case. It is recommended to attach it to a regular phone case, not a valuable one.)
- 【Widely Used】Our non-slip silicone phone sticky grip mount attaches to almost any flat phone case and make it compatible with common mobile phones such as iPhone and Android.You can shoot, watch videos or video calls in the kitchen, gym, dance studio, bathroom and other places.
- 【Capture the Wonderful Picture】Whether you are a TikTok creator or just like to share videos and photos, this phone suction cup can help you hands-free capture wonderful videos and photos for sharing with friends.
- 【Note】You can fix the phone suction cup on a smooth surface such as a mirror or glass. If necessary, wipe the suction cup with a damp cloth to obtain stronger suction. Before releasing your hand, make sure the phone is firmly fixed. (Not applicable to rough walls, wooden surfaces, and other uneven surfaces)
3. Use it as an e-reader
An older iPad may be comfortable for reading if its screen is in good condition and your preferred reading app still runs on it. Readers have described this use anecdotally, but that does not confirm compatibility for a particular model or app. Check the app’s requirements and try the content you want to read before relying on the device.
4. Turn it into a digital photo display
A spare iPhone or iPad could display photos, but the practical setup depends on the device’s photo app, software and screen condition. A community discussion mentions a digital photo frame as an idea, not as a verified setup or tested result. Check that the screen looks good and that you can display the photos you want with the software already available to you.
Rank #2
- SUPERIOR COMFORT — Unlike traditional circular ear buds, the design of EarPods is defined by the geometry of the ear. Which makes them more comfortable for more people than any other ear bud–style headphones.
- HIGH-QUALITY AUDIO — The speakers inside EarPods have been engineered to maximize sound output and minimize sound loss, which means you get high-quality audio.
- BUILT-IN REMOTE — EarPods with USB-C plug also include a built-in remote that lets you adjust the volume, control the playback of music and video, and answer or end calls with a pinch of the cord.
- COMPATIBILITY — Works with all devices that have a USB-C port.
- INTEGRATED MICROPHONE — A built-in microphone precisely captures your voice while you’re on the phone, taking a FaceTime call, or summoning Siri — so you’re always heard loud and clear.
5. Set up an iPad for simpler communication and media
Apple’s Assistive Access provides a simplified iPad interface with larger onscreen items and focused features. Apple lists optimized apps including Calls, Camera, Magnifier, Messages, Music, Photos and Apple TV. Feature availability depends on the iPad and its software, so check Apple’s Assistive Access instructions before planning around it. A trusted supporter may be able to help configure the device for the person who will use it.
6. Restrict an iPad to one app for a task
Guided Access can temporarily keep an iPad in a single app and lets you set controls such as time limits and feature restrictions. This can suit a focused task or a child’s device, but it does not replace choosing appropriate apps or supervising a child. Check the model and software requirements in Apple’s Guided Access instructions.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesRank #3
- Secure Hold: Our PopSockets adhesive phone grip gives your cell phone a secure, comfortable hold in hand to help prevent drops while texting, taking photos, or scrolling on the go. Designed to stick firmly to most phone cases and devices.
- Hands-Free Made Easy: Easily turn your PopSocket into a phone stand to prop up your phone anywhere, perfect for watching videos, video calls, or following recipes. A must-have phone holder that keeps your device secure and ready for anything.
- Compatibility: Works with all phones, tablets, and Kindles. Sticks best to smooth, hard plastic cases and may not adhere to silicone or textured cases. Easily swap your PopTop to change up your style.
- Black PopSockets: Simple, refined, and endlessly versatile. A timeless essential for any phone.
- Travel Must-Have for People On the Go: A must-have travel accessory for flights, flying, airports, air travel, airplanes, planes, international trips, cruises, and long travel days. Key gadget for your airport haul, travel accessories and must-haves.
7. Use it with a Mac if the model qualifies
Apple’s Continuity features include Continuity Camera and Sidecar, which can let a compatible iPhone or iPad work with a Mac in a supporting role. Eligibility depends on the exact device and software, so do not assume an old iPhone can serve as a webcam or an old iPad as a second display. Check Apple’s current Continuity system requirements for the feature you want.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When to pass it on, trade it in or recycle it
If the device is no longer useful to you, consider gifting or selling it, checking for a trade-in offer, or recycling it. Availability and trade-in terms vary by location and offer. Apple says it assesses devices for reuse or recycling; its Trade In page describes credit for eligible devices and free recycling for devices that do not qualify for credit. Check the current local terms before choosing.
Rank #4
- [360 ° Flexible Rotation Design] Comes with a rotatable lanyard ring that supports 360 ° free rotation, effectively solving the problem of twisted and tangled lanyards
- [Wide compatibility] The ultra-thin 0.02-inch design does not block the charging port at all, and both wired and wireless charging can be used directly without removing the pad. Compatible with most smartphones such as iPhone, compatible with various wristbands, lanyards, crossbody straps, and keychains
- [Durable and Portable Material] Premium rust-resistant stainless steel material with good flexibility, which not only avoids scratching the phone case, but also has excellent anti rust and anti fading performance
- [Multi scenario Practical] Paired with a lanyard or wristband, hands-free use can be achieved. The phone is within reach and not easily dropped, ideal for daily commuting and outdoor activities. Suitable for full coverage phone cases, does not support half coverage phone cases
- [Quality Service] If you find any damage or other issues with the product upon receipt, please contact us immediately. We will handle it quickly
Prepare it before transfer
For a sale, gift or trade-in, Apple’s sequence starts with backing up the device and transferring data, then removing personal information. Follow the current Apple instructions for preparing an iPhone or iPad for sale, trade-in or gift; do not manually delete synced items while still signed in, since that can remove them from other devices as well.
- Back up the iPhone or iPad and transfer anything you want to keep.
- Follow Apple’s instructions to remove your personal information, including using Erase All Content and Settings.
- If prompted about an eSIM, decide whether to erase its profile based on whether you are keeping or transferring the mobile plan.
- Remove the device from your trusted-device list as described in Apple’s preparation steps.
Apple says Erase All Content and Settings removes local information and turns off services identified in its instructions. Follow the current instructions for your device rather than treating a manual deletion of individual photos, contacts or files as a full transfer preparation.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【PKYAA Double Sided Silicone Suction Phone Case Mount】PKYAA With Double Sided 40 Strong and Reliable individual suction cups, PKYAA provides a thicken and upgraded universal silicon suction mount for your phone.
- 【Friendly to Content Creators】If you are a content creator or an online influencer, you can create videos anywhere with this suction mount completely hands free with this silicone cell phone mount for cases.
- 【HANDS-FREE & Adhere to Mirrors】This Double Sided silicone suction phone case mount allows you to stick your phone to the mirror easily. No longer holding your phone in one hand to watch video tutorials while making up.
- 【Strong Grip on the Smooth Surface】You can easily hang your phone anywhere with a smooth surface. All you do is you clean off your phone and smooth surface. It is STURDY and it not only sticks to mirrors, it also sticks to windows, it sticks to refrigerators, tiles and other clean, flat surfaces.
- 【Press Down Firmly Every 30 Minutes】Use your palm or fingers to press the phone down firmly and check it's secure before letting go. Apply even pressure for a few seconds to allow the suction cup to adhere properly. To maintain the grip and prevent accidental falls, it's a good practice to periodically reapply pressure to the suction cup.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
