Uses for old Android phone?

[Bernard Lerring]

I've got an old HTC desire in the cupboard. It's seen better days: scratched, volume rocker missing, broken proximity sensor.

It's rooted and unlocked and loaded with an older version of Cyanogenmod ROM. The camera and touchscreen work fine, so it could be used with QR codes.

I was wondering if it would be any use as a portable bitcoin wallet or even cold storage. Is there any specialist software available to use a phone just as a wallet or can I just stick it in airplane mode and load a wallet APK onto it?

[roslinpl]

I've got an old HTC desire in the cupboard. It's seen better days: scratched, volume rocker missing, broken proximity sensor.

It's rooted and unlocked and loaded with an older version of Cyanogenmod ROM. The camera and touchscreen work fine, so it could be used with QR codes.

I was wondering if it would be any use as a portable bitcoin wallet or even cold storage. Is there any specialist software available to use a phone just as a wallet or can I just stick it in airplane mode and load a wallet APK onto it?

Well you can use it as portable bitcoin wallet if your phone will be able to connect with some other host/Interet.
For example Bitcoin Wallet (android app) or Blockchain wallet (android app) need that connection.

I recommend do not use your mobile as a cold storage as there is huge chance that your phone memory might get damaged.

Mobile wallets are good for small amounts in transactions and for everyday use. For a cold storage I am sure there are better storage devices to choose.


Regards

[Mikez]

I agree with roslinpl. Using a more simpler device, such as a usb stick as a cold storage device is somewhat better than using a mobile phone. The more components in a system, the bigger the chance of a component to fail.

You could use it as a mobile wallet though. But don't keep large amounts(the amount is subjective) on it.

[Malin Keshar]

place to store 2FA

semi-cold storage bitcoin wallet(for example: address to receive signature payments, you only touch it once a month)

place to semi-cold storage archives with a true cold storage safe copy somewhere else

[Bernard Lerring]

I like the idea of using it as a 2FA device. I have an ancient Orange SIM in it that's rarely used, so I could use that for receiving SMS codes for 2FA.

Quite right in saying it's no good for cold storage, as the electronics have seen better days and it wouldn't be a surprise if they fail one day.

Quite right in not using it for a wallet for the same reason. It I need a portable wallet I'm better off using my shiny Nexus 4 and just keeping realistic amounts on it (under £100 in BTC).

[monim1]

I don't think old android phones will be handy. You must go for the latest version of Android.

[Rannasha]

I like the idea of using it as a 2FA device. I have an ancient Orange SIM in it that's rarely used, so I could use that for receiving SMS codes for 2FA.

Most 2FA on Bitcoin sites doesn't function with SMS codes. It works through an app that periodically shows you a new code to input on the site (examples of apps are Google Authenticator and Authy, both are compatible with the same sites which comprise almost all 2FA-enabled Bitcoin services).

[ranochigo]

Android isn't the best in RNGs, they can have flaws, for older version of android. Based on my knowledge, most devices cannot support latest android version. Some custom Rom can also steal your data. If your device fails, you need some time to find another device to import the 2 factor data into it if you use it as a 2FA. Also, you need internet access to download those apps, your device is vulnerable when you connect it to the internet.

[Bernard Lerring]

Thanks for the replies.

I think I'm gonna top up the old pay as you go SIM that I hardly ever use and keep it to one side for 2FA when SMS confirmation is required.

I'll disable mobile network connectivity and use my home wifi when I need an app to display 2FA codes.