Old device
Can an old phone or tablet get a second life?
If a phone or tablet no longer receives manufacturer updates, it does not always need to be discarded immediately. Some models can be kept useful with community firmware, but this is not suitable for every device or every use case.
Updated 16 June 2026
1. Not every model is suitable
The answer depends on the exact model, bootloader unlock options, the condition of the device and whether reliable community firmware exists for it. Sometimes the honest answer is no, and then it is better not to start the project.
2. What can it be useful for?
If the device is a good candidate, it may become a smart home control panel, a Home Assistant dashboard, a wall calendar, a music remote, a recipe screen or a light backup device.
3. What should be checked first?
The process may erase the device, require backups and change how some apps work. Banking apps, strong authentication, streaming services and camera features may not behave the same way as on the original system.
4. Free first check
You can send me the exact model and explain what you would like to use it for. I can check, free of charge, whether there seems to be a sensible path forward or whether the time would be better spent on another solution.