cell phone as backup camera

[Beachseeker]

This was originally a response in another thread but thought I'd "put it out there". I like finding new uses for things I already have which solve a problem I have. And I'm cheap.

I had a brainstorm the other day. I have an old iPhone with no cell service but it does wifi. I'm logged into my iTunes account on it and can do facetime (video) calls between my old phone and my new iPhone. I glued a couple of magnets to the old phone's holster and attached it to my tailgate. Turned on the new phones wifi hotspot. Presto! Backup camera. Not great for everyday use but great for hitching up the trailer!

I imagine there is an android equivalent

 

[Oregon Fun-Guy]

Do you have to have a wireless connection for your phone in order to establish a hotspot? I've never used my phone as a hotspot.

 

[Beachseeker]

I don't know but that is a good question! I will try to find out next time I am not in cell coverage. I imagine I could turn on my hotspot whether or not it could get internet. No idea if facetime would work at that time. I'm guessing no.

BTW I just noticed my Verizon phone has settings for wifi calling enabled/disabled so it might matter what carrier you are on.

 

[Oregon Fun-Guy]

After taking time to think about this and to do some online research, I see how you could use wifi to transfer files from one phone to another. I think you have to have a special app to stream ongoing video recording from one phone to another. Does your iPhone have this kind of app already built in? I found this link that tells how it can be done for both iPhone and android. http://https://www.cnet.com/how-to/turn-your-old-phone-into-a-home-security-camera/

 

[Oregon Fun-Guy]

Oops didn't send the link. https://www.cnet.com/how-to/turn-your-old-phone-into-a-home-security-camera/

 

[Beachseeker]

No idea about android phones but with iPhone, old phone signed into iTunes under my account, wifi turned on and connected to internet, i just choose MYSELF, as in my name, from contacts and select "FaceTime Video" and when my new phone rings, I accept the call.

This is not theory, I have done it. I can't be Tech support but will help however I can.