3 Ways to Make the Most of Your Old Smartphone

— -- Having a shiny new Samsung Galaxy S6 may make it easy to part with one of its predecessors, but there are a few clever ways a functioning smartphone can still be put to use.

With Samsung's Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge reaching customers today, it may seem like a smart idea to trade in or sell old devices.

Or you could put it to use.

Here are three ways your functioning spare Android smartphone can be put to work.

Chromecast Controller

Have a Google Chromecast streaming stick? You can now turn your Android device into a permanent remote control that can be used to wirelessly stream video content on your television.

Digital Photo Frame

Turn your old Android device into a digital photo frame to jazz up your office or make a curated stream for a special occasion with the Dayframe app.

Photos will play on a continuous stream and can even pull in memories from social networks. Bonus: If you have a Chromecast, it's possible to enjoy the photos on a larger screen.

Home Surveillance System

Presence, an app available for iOS and Android, lets users turn an old smartphone or tablet into a home security system that will pair with their new device, allowing users view of home even when they're away.

Presence can also send video alerts to users if it suspects suspicious activity at home. Using its motion detector, it can turn on lights other devices to alert intruders they have been detected.