My old Pixel 4a may be retired from daily use, but it’s still got plenty of life left in it. After a motorcycle crash damaged the phone’s screen and frame, I decided to give it new purpose as a navigation device for my bike.
I turned to Google Maps and YouTube Music on my Pixel 4a, powered by a personal hotspot from my main phone, and set up a Quadlock-inspired phone mount for easy viewing. However, I soon realized that I needed a more seamless experience.
That’s when I discovered the Headunit Reloaded Emulator HUR app, which lets you turn an old phone into an Android Auto display. While it works well, I encountered some issues with display scaling and responsiveness due to the small screen size of my Pixel 4a.
The main drawback is battery life, as constant use can drain the battery quickly. But with a built-in USB-C charging port on my bike, I’m able to keep it running.
Despite some quirks, my old Pixel 4a has become nearly perfect for its intended use case – providing navigation and music capabilities without worrying about damage from drops or crashes. It’s an affordable, practical solution that just might become your favorite accessory if you’re looking for a cheap way to upcycle your old Android phone.
I’ve found several potential uses for old phones beyond navigation:
* Security cameras
* Smart home sensors
* Backup camera systems
Don’t throw away your old tech – it still holds value!
Source: https://www.makeuseof.com/best-way-reuse-old-android-phone