Recycling and Reuse Options - Individuals should wipe their old phones via factory reset to protect personal data before recycling or reuse [1][2][3] - The industry advises against discarding old phones in regular trash due to hazardous chemicals like arsenic, lead, and mercury that can contaminate groundwater [3] - Recycling centers can be found via calltorecycleorg, with options to check for cell phone recycling [3][4] - Charities like Cell Phones for Soldiers, National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and 911 Cell Phone Bank accept phone donations [4][5][6] - Secondwave Recyclingcom allows recycling or donation to causes like Wounded Warrior Project, St Jude's Children's Hospital, and Greater Boston Sickle Cell Association [6] - Secure the Call repurposes phones for emergency calls by victims of domestic violence and senior citizens, ensuring proper recycling if the phone is non-functional [6][7] Alternative Uses - Old phones can be repurposed as security cameras using apps like Alfred Camera [8] - The gaming industry suggests turning old phones into dedicated gaming handhelds with emulators or remote play options like PS5 remote play or Steam Link [8] - Old phones can function as dedicated smart home controllers using apps like Apple Home or Google Home [9][10] - The tech community encourages using old phones to test beta versions of operating systems like iOS or Android [11] Trade-in and Other Considerations - Wireless carriers or phone manufacturers may offer trade-in value for old phones [12]