How to Use iPhone as Baby Monitor: A Step-by-Step Guide

Parents seeking reliable baby monitors often overlook a device they already own—their iPhone. Your iPhone can become a dependable baby monitor with a few easy steps. Using your iPhone as a baby monitor offers convenience and saves you the expense of purchasing an additional device.

Let’s break down how to use iPhone as baby monitor so you can watch your little one even if you are in another part of your home. We’ll also look into a few baby monitors that can keep a better eye on your infant child.

How to Use iPhone as a Baby Monitor?

To turn your iPhone into a spy cam, you must learn to customize some basic functions, including video recording and hearing features. Here’s how to do it:

1. On your iPhone, go to Settings. Then, go to the Control Center.
2. Scroll down until you see the Hearing option and tap it.
3. Turn on the Background Sounds by tapping it. You can connect a compatible audio device, like Airpods, to your iPhone using the Live Listen function.

If you want to turn it off, you just have to tap the Live Listen button at the bottom of the screen. If you want to learn more about how to use your phone as a baby monitor, you can use other built-in features in conjunction with some useful apps.

Use Built-in feature

iPhones come with various features that make them suitable for monitoring your baby. FaceTime is a built-in application that can effectively serve the purpose of a baby monitor on phone.

1. Start by setting up an iPhone in the baby’s room and positioning it to get a clear view of the crib.
2. Open FaceTime on the monitoring iPhone and call another device you’ll use to monitor your baby. This could be another iPhone, iPad, or even a Mac.
3. Answer the call and mute the monitoring device to avoid disturbing your baby with sound. This method lets you see and hear your baby clearly from another room.

Another helpful feature is the iOS accessibility option called “Guided Access.” Activate Guided Access to lock the iPhone into a single app and control which features are available. This prevents the device from being accidentally disrupted.

1. Set it up by going to Settings, selecting Accessibility, and enabling Guided Access.
2. Tap the side button to start a Guided Access session using FaceTime.

Use Third-Party Apps

For more advanced monitoring, including video feeds, you can use third-party apps designed for baby monitoring. One excellent option is the Baby Cam app.

1. Download the Baby Cam app on both iOS devices (your old iPhone/iPad and your current iPhone).
2. Open the app and create an account using Facebook credentials or manually.
3. Assign one device as the Baby Station and the other as the Parent Device.
4. Keep the Baby Station plugged in to avoid battery drain.
5. Enter the security code displayed on the Baby Station on the Parent Device to authenticate.
6. Monitor the live video and audio feed from the Baby Station.
7. Enable notifications for loud sounds like crying to receive alerts.

Aside from learning how to use iphone as baby monitor, you must also know of the benefits and drawbacks of such a simple solution. Doing so will help you decide whether you need a more reliable system like a baby monitor or not.

Pros and Cons of iPhone Baby Monitors

Using iPhone as baby monitors might be a good short-term solution to monitor your baby. Let’s look into the advantages and disadvantages when you use phone as baby monitor to look after your infant child:

Pros of iPhone Baby Monitors

• Repurposing an old iPhone saves money that would otherwise be spent on a separate baby monitor.
• iPhones are highly portable, allowing you to monitor your baby from different locations within the house or even while you're outside.
• Many iPhones have high-definition cameras and precise audio capabilities, providing a clear and detailed view of your baby.
• Two-way audio features allow you to hear your baby and talk to them or play soothing sounds remotely.

Cons of iPhone Baby Monitors

• Using an iPhone as a baby monitor means the device must remain stationary in the baby’s room. This can be inconvenient if you need the iPhone for other purposes.
• Continuous video streaming and app usage can drain the iPhone’s battery quickly.

Best Baby Monitors in 2024

If you don’t like the turn phone into baby monitor option, you can always purchase a baby monitor that’s specifically made so you can track your baby’s activities. Below are two of our most recommended products that will give you the best bang for your buck:

1. eufy Baby Monitor E21

Who is it for?

• Parents seeking ultra-high resolution and advanced noise reduction for clear monitoring

Features:

• 4K clarity, 8X zoom
• 5-inch monitor display
• Hybrid connection mode (monitor + app)
• Active noise reduction
• Night vision
• 330° pan, 60° tilt
• Two-way audio

Keep a close watch on your baby with the eufy Baby Monitor E21, crafted for parents who want the sharpest clarity. Its 4K camera captures every detail on a 5-inch screen, with hybrid connection options allowing monitoring via the monitor or app, whether you're nearby or away.

Moreover, its active noise reduction filters background sounds, so you can sleep peacefully while hearing only what matters. The baby monitor's camera pans up to 330° and tilts to 60°, enabling you to view almost every inch of your baby’s room. You can also talk to your baby using a built-in two-way audio.

2. eufy Baby Monitor E20

Who is it for?

• Parents looking for high-quality video and essential monitoring features at a balanced price.

Features:

• 2K HD clarity, 4X zoom
• Hybrid connection mode (monitor + app)
• Active noise reduction
• 1000 feet connection distance
• 330° pan, 60° tilt
• Two-way audio
• Supports up to 128 GB micro-SD card for local storage

The eufy Baby Monitor E20 is a cheaper option than the E21. This model provides sharp 2K resolution on a 5-inch screen and features hybrid connectivity, allowing you to monitor your baby using both the dedicated monitor and the app. With a connection distance of up to 1,000 feet, you can stay connected while moving around your home. Additionally, the local storage option supports up to a 128 GB micro-SD card, enabling you to save and review precious moments with ease.

Conclusion

Knowing how to use iPhone as baby monitor can go a long way, especially if you need a cheap short-term solution for watching over your kids. It’s also easy to set up and doesn’t require other accessories. However, it cannot replace a baby monitor system that offers various features the iPhone doesn’t have.

FAQs

What are the best apps for turning my iPhone into a baby monitor?

Several apps stand out for their features and reliability. The Cloud Baby Monitor app offers high-definition video, clear audio, and additional features like lullabies and night light controls. The Baby Cam app is another excellent option. Parents highly rated and trusted both apps for their effectiveness and ease of use.

How do I ensure the security of my iPhone baby monitor setup?

Start by securing your Wi-Fi network with a strong password. Ensure all devices involved in monitoring are updated with the latest software to protect against vulnerabilities. Use apps with robust security features, and enable two-factor authentication on your Apple ID for added protection. Lastly, regularly check the app's permissions and settings to maintain a secure environment.

Is there a baby mode on iPhone?

While the iPhone does not have a specific "baby mode," several features and apps can be utilized for baby monitoring. The Guided Access feature, found in the Accessibility settings, allows you to lock the iPhone to a single app, preventing accidental exits. This feature can be helpful when using your iPhone as a baby monitor, ensuring the monitoring app remains active.