How to turn your phone into a security camera for free
If you’re new to setting up security cameras from scratch, the task of keeping your home secure may seem daunting. But luckily, you can give it a try with free security camera apps that only require your phone and a spare device you probably have on hand.
I tried AlfredCamera, a popular home security app that you can use to set up an unlimited live stream for free in minutes. Here’s what you need to know to set up your first security camera with just a spare phone.
Using AlfredCamera with an aftermarket device
There’s a lot you can do with a spare device, whether it’s an old phone, tablet, or smartwatch, from setting it up as a dedicated entertainment device to turning it into a handy security camera for added security at home or at work. AlfredCamera, among other security cameras, lets you set up an aftermarket device like an old phone or tablet as a security camera at no additional cost. This way, you’ll only need one primary device to monitor your stream and one (or more) spare devices to set up as simultaneous viewers.
To make monitoring easier, AlfredCamera also supports a web viewer that you can sign up for on your desktop to view your live feed. AlfredCamera can monitor motion detection and you can adjust the sensitivity of the feature in the app after setting up your first camera.
Since my trial of the app (using my iPad as a viewer), I’ve found AlfredCamera to be extremely intuitive and simple to use, and it can be used even if you’re unfamiliar with home security devices or best practices, given the clarity of the setup instructions. Once your primary and viewing devices are signed into the same account, setting up your first live stream comes with step-by-step instructions displayed on both devices, so you don’t have to worry about interrupting the streams.
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How to set up a security camera with AlfredCamera
To get started, download AlfredCamera on your iPhone or Android phone (this makes it easy to control and monitor) and sign up (you can use a Google or Apple account or your email). Next, download the app on a spare device, such as a second phone or tablet, and use the same ID on it. Devices will sync when connected to the same network; You can also pair the two devices using a QR code with on-screen instructions when you open AlfredCamera on the first device.
Once the devices are paired, open the app on the replacement device and start the live stream (it starts automatically) by placing it in an ideal position (with the rear camera facing your house or door, for example). Return to your primary device and tap “Live” to view the live feed captured by your security camera (your secondary device).
You can mount your aftermarket device on a comfortable surface, such as a tripod or shelf, with AlfredCamera open at all times to maintain the feed. The app turns on battery saver mode (although you can switch to auto-streaming mode if needed) to conserve data and enables screen lock once streaming begins.
You can then use the monitoring controls on your main device to view and adjust camera angles or device position. From your viewer, you can start recording and view playback, remove existing devices and add new ones.
You can download and use AlfredCamera for free and set up a simultaneous viewer that supports unlimited live streams, although the streaming quality is not the best. With a Premium subscription, you can add three simultaneous viewers, with HD live streaming, smart motion detection, zoom, recording and storage for up to two weeks. Each camera you configure can also be named (front door, office, etc.).
AlfredCamera also offers its own security cameras (AlfredCam for indoor security and AlfredCam Plus 2 for outdoor security) which range from $29.99 to $39.99 per camera.
Tips for setting up your phone as a security camera
Once you’ve set up your first security camera, there are steps you can take to ensure you capture an ideal live feed of your home or office for better security and surveillance.
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Find an ideal location and support (like a tripod or support shelf) to place your device, pointing the camera toward an area of interest.
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Keep a distance of one to two meters between your camera and objects of interest.
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Make sure your camera is not pointed at shiny, reflective surfaces like windows or mirrors.
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Avoid pointing your camera at slightly moving objects like electric fans.
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Once you have set up your live stream, do not exit the AlfredCamera app (or click the home/power button) unless you want to stop the live stream.
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Make sure your viewing device is securely connected to a stable Wi-Fi connection to see a continuous stream, even if your monitoring device is not nearby or on a different network.
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Using a free security camera app like AlfredCamera is a great way to experiment with your home security before investing in a security camera best suited to your needs. You can also experiment with alternatives like Manything (iOS) if you want to expand your options.
