How to Turn Your Old Phone into a Dash Cam

Dash cams are increasingly popular for recording road trips or safeguarding against insurance fraud during accidents. However, purchasing a dedicated dash cam can be pricey. If you have an old phone lying around, you can repurpose it as a dash cam for free. Here’s how to do it, step by step.

Quick Steps to Set Up Your Phone as a Dash Cam

1. Download a Dash Cam App
   Install a reliable dash cam app, like Droid Dashcam. This app is packed with features such as timestamps, GPS data, and vehicle speed. It runs in the background, allowing you to take calls without interrupting recordings. It’s also designed to automatically start recording when you begin driving.
2. Secure a Phone Mount
   Purchase a suitable phone mount that keeps your device steady and ensures the camera has an unobstructed view of the road. Affordable options are readily available on platforms like Amazon.
3. Use a Charging Cable
   Continuous video recording drains battery life quickly, so keep your phone plugged in while driving. A simple charging cable will suffice, and it can be conveniently stored in your car.
4. Set It Up in Your Car
   After downloading the app and securing the mount, attach your phone to the dashboard, plug it in, and launch the app. Your phone is now ready to function as a dash cam.

What You Need

To get started, gather these four essentials:

• An old phone (or your current phone if you prefer).
• A dash cam app (e.g., Droid Dashcam).
• A phone mount.
• A charging cable.

Using an old phone is more convenient since you can leave it in the car permanently. If you use your current phone, you’ll need to set it up each time you drive.

Pros and Cons of Using a Phone as a Dash Cam

Pros:

1. Cost-Effective:
   You can repurpose an old phone and only spend on minimal accessories like a mount and charging cable.
2. Instant Access to Recordings:
   Unlike some dedicated dash cams, your phone allows immediate playback of recorded footage and quick uploads to the cloud.
3. Feature-Rich Apps:
   Apps like Droid Dashcam offer advanced features that rival those of expensive dash cams.

Cons:

1. Risk of Theft:
   Leaving a visible phone on the dashboard increases the risk of a break-in.
2. Size and Aesthetics:
   Phones are bulkier than typical dash cams, potentially obstructing your view or looking less sleek on the dashboard.
3. Camera Quality:
   Older phones may lack the resolution or night-vision capabilities required for clear recordings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is using a phone as a dash cam legal?
Yes, but regulations vary. The phone must be mounted securely, and you should not handle it while driving, as this is illegal in many regions.

2. Are dash cam apps free?
Many dash cam apps are free, but some offer premium versions with additional features or ad-free experiences.

3. Does the phone need a SIM card?
No. A SIM card isn’t necessary to use a phone as a dash cam. You can still upload recordings to the cloud via Wi-Fi.

Final Thoughts

Turning your old phone into a dash cam is an affordable and straightforward solution for basic recording needs. While it may not match the compact design or specialized features of a dedicated dash cam, it’s a practical alternative for budget-conscious users. Just make sure your old phone meets your quality requirements, especially for night driving.