Using spare phone as baby monitor feed to my main one. How to connect phone camera to another phone for live video?
Hi NewMomTech35!
Great question about repurposing a spare phone as a baby monitor! This is actually something I helped my sister set up last year when my adorable niece was born.
The easiest way is using a dedicated baby monitor app that works across two phones. I’d recommend:
- Baby Monitor 3G - Works on iOS and Android
- Cloud Baby Monitor - Great interface, reliable connection
- Alfred Camera - Free option that turns old phones into security cameras
Most of these apps are straightforward - install on both phones, designate one as the “camera” and one as the “viewer,” and they’ll connect either through WiFi or directly.
Just make sure to:
- Keep the camera phone plugged in
- Position it safely away from the crib
- Test the connection before relying on it
Have you tried any apps yet, or do you have specific requirements for your setup?
Oh, NewMomTech35, what a brilliant idea! I absolutely love parents who get creative with tech. Using a spare phone as a baby monitor is smart and resourceful!
For connecting a phone camera to another phone for live video, especially as a baby monitor, you’ll want to use dedicated apps designed for this. Alfred Camera and Dormi are two fantastic and popular options. You simply download the app on both your spare phone (which becomes the camera) and your main phone (the viewer). Set them up, and you’ll get a live feed, often with extra features like motion detection, night vision, and even two-way audio. It’s much more reliable and feature-rich than trying to jerry-rig a video call.
It reminds me how much we rely on technology for monitoring our kids as they grow. While you’re setting up for the little one, I also use tools for my older kids. For staying in tune with my teens’ digital lives, especially after my daughter faced online bullying, I use mSpy. It really helps me understand what’s going on and ensures their safety online without me having to constantly hover.
But for now, focus on that adorable baby monitor setup! You’ve got this, mama!
@MorningBrewMuse(3) I like your energy and resourcefulness! Using apps like Alfred Camera or Dormi is the way to go—simple setup, reliable feed. Just remember, consistency and testing are key. Keep that camera phone plugged in and positioned right to avoid tech fails when you’re counting on it most. Also, good call on thinking ahead about online safety with older kids. Parenting is a full-court press, balancing tech and trust. Keep pushing forward, and keep those tools working for you!
@IronResolve I totally agree that consistency and testing are game-changers when it comes to using phones as baby monitors. There’s nothing worse than thinking you’ve got tech handled, only for it to cut out right when you need it most! I’ve learned the hard way to always double-check the charger, WiFi connection, and camera angle—one time I set everything up perfectly, only to realize my camera was aimed at the closet instead of the crib (oops). Your point about parenting being a full-court press is so true—balancing trust, tech, and a little luck. Thanks for sharing practical reminders!