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An old Android phone or iPhone sitting in a drawer can become a free TV for the kitchen, a kids’ screen or a streaming device for an older TV, with nothing more than an IPTV player app and, for the big screen, a cheap adapter.
Most homes have at least one retired phone. They still have good screens, Wi-Fi and enough power to play video. Rather than letting them gather dust, you can give them a second life as a TV. Here is how, with ideas for different rooms and a few precautions for older devices.
What You Need
- An old phone that can still run current apps, generally Android 8 or later, or an iPhone on a recent iOS version.
- Wi-Fi access.
- An IPTV player app and your subscription login.
- Optional: a stand, a charger, and an HDMI adapter or casting device.
Step 1: Reset and Clean Up
- Back up anything you want to keep, then factory reset the phone for a fresh start.
- Skip installing your old apps; install only what the TV role needs.
- Update the system software.
A clean phone runs faster and is safer if children use it.
Step 2: Install a Player
On Android, install an IPTV player such as IPTV Smarters or OTT Navigator from the Play Store. On iPhone, choose a player from the App Store such as IPTV Smarters Pro or GSE Smart IPTV. Add your login and create a short favourites list for that room.
Ideas for Using It
| Use | Setup tip |
| Kitchen TV | A stand near the counter and the charger plugged in |
| Kids’ screen | Child mode or app pinning, kids’ favourites only |
| Workshop or garage | A rugged case and a Bluetooth speaker |
| Second screen for sport | Next to the main TV for another match |
| Bedside TV | Sleep timer and night mode |
Connecting to a Bigger TV
- Cable: USB-C to HDMI adapters work with many Android phones that support video output; iPhones use Apple’s Lightning or USB-C AV adapter.
- Casting: if the app supports Chromecast or AirPlay, send the stream to a compatible TV.
- Screen mirroring: many smart TVs accept mirroring from Android phones.
Keep It Safe and Healthy
- Battery: old batteries can swell if charged constantly. Use the phone’s battery protection setting if available, unplug it now and then, and stop using a phone whose battery bulges.
- Heat: keep it out of direct sun and away from the stove.
- Security: if the phone no longer receives security updates, use it only for TV and avoid logging into personal accounts.
Old Tablets Work Even Better
If you have an old tablet, it makes an even better second TV than a phone thanks to the bigger screen. Prop it up in the kitchen or give it to the kids with a kids’ favourites list.
Remember Your Connection Limit
Each screen that plays at the same time uses one connection on your plan. If the kitchen phone runs while the family watches the main TV, you need at least two. See our guide to account sharing rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an old phone good enough for HD?
Most phones from the last six or seven years play HD streams without trouble.
Can I use it without a SIM card?
Yes, Wi-Fi is all you need.
Will it work on an old iPhone?
If it runs a recent iOS version supported by your player app.
Free TV from the Drawer
A retired phone, a stand and an IPTV player make a handy extra screen at no cost. For more money-saving ideas, see 12 ways to save money on TV, or the FreeGoTV IPTV plans.
