24 ways to make money with your phone

Making money with your smartphone is a convenient way to take advantage of your free time while remaining flexible and independent. It’s an ideal solution for different groups of people, including stay-at-home moms raising young children, students needing to fund their education, and active retirees seeking a productive way to spend their time while supplementing their income.

This article offers you simple, accessible ideas that can be accomplished solely with a phone. You will also find tips to optimize your chances of success as well as answers to many questions you might have before starting this type of activity.

Introduction

If there’s one work tool everyone has today, it’s the smartphone. The number of tasks it enables is continually expanding with the variety of services sprouting up on the web. The smartphone is an incredible tool that goes beyond communication and entertainment—it can also become a source of income. As we’ll see in this article, it can adapt to various business types and sometimes generate quite comfortable incomes.

Of course, working on a laptop often provides more comfort. A keyboard allows for smoother and faster typing, a mouse enhances precision, and a larger screen offers better visual comfort. But most of the ideas presented here are perfectly feasible with a smartphone, provided you choose the right tools and know how to organize yourself.

For instance, activities requiring impeccable sound recording quality might need an external microphone if your phone’s built-in one isn’t up to par. Meanwhile, for video recording, the built-in camera on modern smartphones is generally more than adequate.

For some, a tablet might seem like a better option due to its larger screen, but if you don’t have one, a smartphone will do the job. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose activities suited to your skills and the equipment you have or that your budget allows you to acquire.

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Ideas for making money with your smartphone

Let’s dive directly into the main topic of this article. Note that in terms of investment, I’m assuming you already own a good-quality smartphone. If you don’t, there are solutions to find a cheap one (offers tied to a subscription, second-hand purchase, etc.). An internet connection is obviously required.

  1. Selling products online

    Use platforms like Etsy, Amazon or eBay to offer items you own or create. You can sell unused items, buy products wholesale to resell, or craft your handmade goods. The key is to find a promising niche and present your products well with high-quality photos and persuasive descriptions.

    This method is accessible for generating income, as it adapts to different levels of investment and commitment. It also allows you to reach a wide audience thanks to integrated marketing tools on these platforms, such as advertising and promotions.

    • Difficulty level: Easy. Setup is simple with platforms guiding sellers step by step.
    • Estimated income: Between $200 and $3,000 per month, initial earnings in 1 to 3 weeks.
    • Investment: Between $0 and $1,000, mainly for purchasing products, materials for production, or storage.
    • Required: A smartphone with a good camera and writing skills.
    Read full article
  2. Getting paid to read emails

    Some platforms pay users to read promotional emails. The principle is similar to the previous idea, often involving the same platforms. They sometimes offer additional activities, allowing users to combine multiple income sources in one place. The concept here is the same: sign up, receive sponsored emails, follow the instructions, and earn a small amount each time.

    Although earnings are modest here as well, this method is entirely flexible and can be done anytime. It’s a hassle-free way to monetize your free time or however much you choose to dedicate to it.

    • Difficulty level: Very easy. No particular skills are needed.
    • Estimated income: Between $20 and $200 per month, initial earnings within 1 week.
    • Investment: None.
    • Required: An active email address, a smartphone, and an internet connection.
    Read full article
  3. Becoming an Instagram influencer

    Becoming an influencer involves building an engaged community around a topic you’re passionate about (fashion, sports, cooking, etc.) and collaborating with brands to promote their products or services. You need to regularly publish high-quality content, interact with your followers, and optimize your profile to attract commercial opportunities.

    The advantage of this activity is its high earning potential and significant creative freedom. However, it requires time and effort to build a substantial audience before it becomes monetizable.

    • Difficulty level: Moderately difficult. Building an engaged audience requires consistent effort.
    • Estimated income: Between $200 and $10,000 per month, initial earnings in 3 to 6 months.
    • Investment: Between $30 and $300 to improve content quality with accessories like a tripod or lighting.
    • Required: Creative flair and communication skills.
    Read full article
  4. Selling AI-generated images

    This activity involves using AI image-generation tools to create unique visuals that can be sold on platforms like Shutterstock or Etsy. You generate images based on market needs, such as illustrations for books, posters, web visuals, or product designs.

    It’s an interesting opportunity for those wanting to monetize their creativity without drawing skills. However, the field is highly competitive, making it essential to differentiate yourself with unique and innovative ideas.

    • Difficulty level: Moderately difficult. Learning to use AI tools may take some time.
    • Estimated income: Between $100 and $1,000 per month, initial earnings in 2 to 4 weeks.
    • Investment: Between $10 and $50, primarily for AI tools’ monthly subscriptions.
    • Required: A smartphone or tablet for more comfort, for creating and managing files, and creative ideas.
    • Training: Easy, plenty of tutorials available on YouTube.
    Read full article
    A screenshot of the Canva AI website Canva is a true Swiss Army knife that, in addition to allowing you to generate AI images, offers all the tools to edit or crop your visuals.
  5. Selling T-shirts online

    Selling T-shirts online involves designing original graphics (or buying them ready-made) and offering them on print-on-demand platforms like Redbubble or Printful. You don’t need to manage inventory or logistics: once a product is sold, the platform takes care of everything, from printing to shipping. Your role is simply to create an account, upload your designs, and focus on promoting your work.

    This is an accessible activity requiring minimal investment and can generate passive income. The more appealing and targeted your designs are, the higher your chances of success.

    • Difficulty level: Fairly easy. The process is automated, but it takes time to create designs and identify what appeals to the audience.
    • Estimated income: Between $100 and $2,000 per month, initial earnings in 2 to 4 weeks.
    • Investment: Between $20 and $80 for mobile design software (like Vector Ink or Canva) or AI image-generation services.
    • Required: Creativity, ability to use graphic design tools, smartphone, or tablet.
    • Training: Easy, duration 1 to 2 weeks, cost $0, free tutorials on graphic design tools suffice.
    Read full article
  6. Outsourcing online services

    This activity involves acting as an intermediary between clients needing specific services (writing, design, translation, etc.) and qualified freelancers. You find clients via platforms like UpWork or Fiverr, negotiate services, and delegate tasks to freelancers while taking a commission.

    It’s an excellent option for those who can manage multiple projects simultaneously and have good interpersonal skills. It allows you to earn money without specific technical expertise, but competition can be tough.

    • Difficulty level: Moderately difficult. Finding reliable, regular clients takes time.
    • Estimated income: Between $500 and $5,000 per month, initial earnings in 2 to 6 weeks.
    • Investment: Up to $100 for tools for project management or automation.
    • Required: Organization, negotiation skills, and the ability to build trust.
    Read full article
  7. Creating and selling your audiobook

    Creating and selling an audiobook involves writing or obtaining a text, recording it as an audio version, and publishing it on platforms like Audible or Google Play Books. You can use recording tools on a smartphone or invest in an external microphone to ensure better sound quality.

    This activity is ideal for writers, narrators, and reading enthusiasts. It can generate passive income once the audiobook is published and gains popularity.

    • Difficulty level: Moderately difficult. Creating and recording take time and technical skills.
    • Estimated income: Between $300 and $3,000 per month, initial earnings in 1 to 3 months.
    • Investment: Between $50 and $200 for a good microphone or subscription to audio editing tools.
    • Required: A good book and good elocution.
    • Training: 1 to 2 weeks to learn the basics of audio editing.
    Read full article
  8. Creating a mailing list

    Creating a mailing list involves collecting email addresses via a blog, website, or social media and sending regular newsletters to promote your products, services, or affiliate content. Tools like GetResponse or Brevo simplify managing and automating campaigns.

    Email marketing is an effective way to establish a direct connection with your audience while creating a steady stream of income over time. Success, however, hinges on consistently providing high-quality content to keep subscribers engaged.

    • Difficulty level: Moderately difficult. Building a solid list takes time and an effective strategy.
    • Estimated income: Between $100 and $5,000 per month, initial earnings in 2 to 6 months.
    • Investment: Between $0 and $100 for email management tools.
    • Required: Ability to produce engaging and regular content, a smartphone, or a tablet for management.
    Read full article
  9. Creating and selling online courses

    Offering online courses means sharing your knowledge on a specific topic via platforms like Udemy or Teachable. You need to structure your content, create explanatory videos, and support your students through interactive sessions. A smartphone suffices for basic courses, but a computer may be more suitable for technical or complex training.

    Creating and selling courses provides excellent passive income potential, particularly if your content receives positive reviews and aligns with popular interests. It’s perfect for experts in a field or passionate individuals ready to share their skills.

    • Difficulty level: Moderately difficult. Creating content requires time and energy investment.
    • Estimated income: Between $500 and $10,000 per month, initial earnings in 1 to 3 months.
    • Investment: Between $100 and $500 for video editing tools and accessories like a microphone.
    • Required: Expertise in a field, smartphone, or computer for recording and management.
    Read full article
  10. Launching a podcast

    Starting a podcast lets you share your ideas or experiences on a topic you’re passionate about. You can record your episodes using a smartphone or dedicated equipment and publish them on platforms like Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

    Podcasting provides an opportunity to develop a loyal community and generate income through sponsorships or ads. However, it requires engaging content and regular publishing to attract and retain listeners.

    • Difficulty level: Moderately difficult. Creating an engaging podcast takes time and creativity.
    • Estimated income: Between $200 and $5,000 per month, initial earnings in 3 to 6 months.
    • Investment: Between $50 and $300 for a microphone and audio tools.
    • Required: Good enunciation, a relevant topic, and regular commitment.
    Read full article
    A screenshot of the Ausha application Ausha is the perfect platform to start your podcast. It’s mobile-compatible, available in multiple languages, and prices start at just $11/month, making it one of the most affordable options on the market.
  11. Investing in stocks

    Investing in stocks, bonds, or funds involves buying and selling shares in listed companies. This can be done directly from a smartphone. It’s a long-term activity requiring research to select promising companies and manage risks.

    This method is popular for growing wealth but requires an understanding of financial markets and tolerance for fluctuations. Potential income largely depends on the initial investment and chosen strategies.

    • Difficulty level: Difficult. It requires deep knowledge of financial markets and regular analysis (unless you work with a broker).
    • Estimated income: Between $500 and $10,000 per month, initial earnings in 3 to 12 months.
    • Investment: Between $500 and $5,000 to build a stock portfolio.
    • Required: Basic financial knowledge, a reliable trading app, and a smartphone or tablet.
    • Training: Difficult, duration 2 to 6 months, cost between $100 and $500 through specialized courses or online resources.
    Read full article
  12. Becoming a YouTuber

    This involves creating a YouTube channel and producing video content on a topic you’re passionate about, such as tutorials, vlogs, entertainment, or educational videos. Everything can be filmed with a modern smartphone and edited using mobile editing apps. Once your channel reaches a certain subscriber and view threshold, you can monetize videos via ads or sponsorships.

    It’s a great opportunity to express creativity and build a loyal audience. However, it requires perseverance as success may take time.

    • Difficulty level: Moderately difficult. Growing an audience requires consistent time and effort.
    • Estimated income: Between $100 and $10,000 per month, initial earnings in 3 to 6 months.
    • Investment: Between $50 and $200 for accessories like a tripod, lighting, or a microphone.
    • Required: Creativity, ability to produce engaging content, and a smartphone with a good camera.
    Read full article
  13. Becoming a community manager

    As a community manager, you manage social media accounts for businesses or individuals. This includes creating content, scheduling posts, and interacting with followers. Everything can be done using apps like Hootsuite or Buffer directly on a smartphone.

    It’s an ideal activity for those who master social media and enjoy interacting with online communities. The work is flexible and can be done remotely, but it requires organization and strong communication skills.

    • Difficulty level: Moderately difficult. Managing multiple accounts and creating cohesive content demands experience.
    • Estimated income: Between $300 and $5,000 per month, initial earnings in 1 to 2 months.
    • Investment: Between $0 and $100 for social media management tools.
    • Required: In-depth knowledge of social media, communication skills, and content creation expertise.
    Read full article
  14. Creating and selling social media accounts

    This idea involves creating an account on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or others and growing it by attracting as many followers as possible around a specific theme or topic. Once the account reaches a significant and engaged audience, you can sell it to businesses or individuals interested in that target demographic. The process involves regularly posting relevant content, engaging with followers, and optimizing the account to make it appealing.

    It’s a lucrative opportunity if you know how to master social media and create engaging content. Selling well-established accounts can bring significant profits, especially in highly demanded niches like fashion, fitness, or travel.

    • Difficulty level: Moderately difficult. Developing an engaging account requires time and an effective strategy.
    • Estimated income: Between $300 and $5,000 per account, initial earnings in 3 to 6 months.
    • Investment: Between $0 and $100 depending on the type of content you post.
    • Required: Content creation skills, understanding of social media algorithms, and perseverance.
    Read full article
    A screenshot of the Instagram application Instagram is probably the easiest social platform to start on, but Pinterest or even TikTok are also very interesting options.
  15. Selling your comments, likes, and shares

    This activity involves leaving comments under blog articles, writing product reviews, or interacting with posts on social media in exchange for payment. For businesses or individuals, these actions help improve the visibility or credibility of their content. You can offer these services through freelancing platforms like UpWork or Fiverr.

    It’s a simple way to make quick money while staying flexible. However, it requires rigor to meet clients’ expectations and avoid restrictions imposed by platforms or sites.

    • Difficulty level: Very easy. Tasks are accessible to everyone without specific technical skills.
    • Estimated income: Between $50 and $500 per month, initial earnings in less than a week.
    • Investment: None.
    • Required: Good writing, active social media accounts, and time to complete tasks.
    Read full article
  16. Becoming a real estate photographer

    With a smartphone equipped with a quality camera, you can offer real estate photography services to realtors or property owners. This involves capturing appealing images to showcase properties in online listings. Good natural lighting and simple editing apps like Lightroom or Snapseed can significantly enhance the results.

    This activity is appealing for photography enthusiasts and offers a regular income potential if you establish local partnerships. That said, building a solid client base might require time and consistent effort.

    • Difficulty level: Easy. The technique is accessible, but starting out may require some outreach.
    • Estimated income: Between $300 and $2,000 per month, initial earnings in 1 to 3 weeks.
    • Investment: Between $0 and $100, potentially for editing apps or accessories like a tripod.
    • Required: A smartphone with a good camera, an eye for composition, and attention to detail.
    • Training: Very easy, you can learn basic photography in just a few days.
    Read full article
  17. Testing websites and apps

    Your task here is to provide feedback on the usability and functionality of the services you’re asked to test. Platforms like UserTesting or Testingtime connect you with companies looking for this type of service. You test products according to a given scenario and share your impressions, often in video or audio format, or sometimes just via a questionnaire.

    It’s a flexible, well-paid activity for the time invested. It requires no technical skills, but attention to detail is essential.

    • Difficulty level: Easy. Platforms are simple to use and require no prior experience.
    • Estimated income: Between $50 and $500 per month, initial earnings in 1 to 2 weeks.
    • Investment: None.
    • Required: A smartphone with a reliable internet connection and the ability to follow precise instructions.
    Read full article
  18. Investing in cryptocurrencies

    Investing in cryptocurrencies involves buying, selling, or holding digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other cryptos. This activity can be done entirely from a smartphone and relies on speculation or long-term investment in promising blockchain projects.

    This type of investment offers high earning potential but is also very risky due to market volatility. It’s important to learn thoroughly before starting and never invest more than you can afford to lose.

    • Difficulty level: Difficult. Understanding the markets and managing risks requires some expertise.
    • Estimated income: Difficult to estimate due to numerous variables.
    • Investment: Between $100 and $5,000, depending on your chosen strategy.
    • Required: Basic knowledge of finance and crypto, and a secure app for transactions.
    Read full article
  19. Selling your photos online

    This involves offering your photos on stock image platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, or Getty Images. Whether landscapes, objects, or everyday moments, your photos may interest companies, designers, or individuals. A smartphone with a good camera is sufficient to capture high-quality images.

    This activity is ideal for photography enthusiasts looking to monetize their talent. Although the market has become more competitive with the rise of AI-generated imagery, there are still opportunities for those who can produce original images on trending topics.

    • Difficulty level: Easy. All you need are good photos and an account on a sales platform.
    • Estimated income: Between $50 and $1,000 per month, initial earnings in 1 to 2 months.
    • Investment: Between $0 and $100 for photo editing apps or accessories like a tripod.
    • Required: Smartphone with a high-quality camera, artistic sense, and creativity.
    Read full article
    A screenshot of the Shutterstock website Shutterstock hosts one of the largest collections of royalty-free images. It’s an ideal platform to get started.
  20. Creating and selling coloring books

    Creating and selling coloring books involves designing themed drawings and turning them into books via platforms like Amazon KDP. You can create illustrations yourself or use AI tools to generate original coloring pages. These books cater to both children and adults.

    It’s an excellent way to generate passive income from a simple yet popular product. Once published, a coloring book can continue to sell with no additional effort.

    • Difficulty level: Moderately difficult. Creation requires some time and creativity.
    • Estimated income: Between $100 and $2,000 per month, initial earnings in 2 to 4 weeks.
    • Investment: Between $0 and $50 for graphic design or editing tools.
    • Required: Creativity and a subscription to an app for creating illustrations.
  21. Launching an online radio station

    With modern tools like radio.co or Radiolize, launching an online radio station is accessible to everyone. You can create music shows, thematic discussions, or a mix of both, then broadcast your content continuously or on demand via your smartphone. Keep in mind that a smartphone allows for a basic radio station setup; more sophisticated setups require additional equipment.

    This activity lets you reach a global audience with minimal investment. However, success depends on your ability to produce interesting and regular content.

    • Difficulty level: Moderately difficult. Managing technical aspects and creating content takes some learning.
    • Estimated income: Between $100 and $1,500 per month, initial earnings in 1 to 3 months.
    • Investment: Between $50 and $300 for a quality broadcasting service, a good microphone, and audio editing tools.
    • Required: Good enunciation, engaging topics, and a smartphone with a stable connection.
  22. Buying and selling domain names

    This involves buying domain names at low prices on platforms like Greengeeks or GoDaddy, then reselling them at higher prices. Domains with popular keywords or brandable names often have significant added value.

    The domain name market offers interesting margins but can be competitive and requires market analysis to spot opportunities.

    • Difficulty level: Moderately difficult. Identifying trends and opportunities takes patience.
    • Estimated income: Between $500 and $10,000 per month, initial earnings in 1 to 6 months.
    • Investment: Between $100 and $500 for the initial purchase of domain names.
    • Required: Market research and analysis skills, and tools for managing domains.
  23. Investing in FOREX

    FOREX (foreign exchange market) involves speculating on currency fluctuations using platforms like MetaTrader or eToro. You buy a currency when its price is low and sell when it rises, leveraging tools to maximize profits.

    FOREX offers considerable earning potential but is also highly risky due to its volatility. Proper training is crucial before starting to avoid losses.

    • Difficulty level: Difficult. Understanding market mechanics and minimizing risks requires solid training.
    • Estimated income: Between $1,000 and $20,000 per month, initial earnings in 1 to 3 months.
    • Investment: Between $500 and $5,000, depending on starting capital and tools chosen.
    • Required: In-depth trading knowledge, risk tolerance, and a reliable trading app.
    • Training: Difficult, duration 3 to 6 months, cost between $50 and $2,000, via specialized courses or certified trainers.

What are the advantages and constraints?

Using a smartphone to generate income offers undeniable flexibility. You can work from anywhere—whether at home, in transit, or even while traveling. Most ideas require only a limited time investment, making them accessible to a wide audience.

With a modern smartphone, you already possess a versatile tool capable of taking photos, recording videos, managing accounts, or creating designs. Furthermore, the available apps and platforms significantly simplify tasks, whether for selling products, managing social media, or even investing money.

However, this freedom comes with some constraints. The main one is the need to stand out in a competitive environment. Success requires time, persistence, and sometimes the development of specific skills. Additionally, working solely on a smartphone can be limiting, particularly for tasks requiring precision or simultaneous use of multiple tools.

Mistakes to avoid when starting out

When starting, it’s easy to fall into certain traps that can hinder your success. A common mistake is spreading yourself too thin by starting multiple ideas at once. Chasing too many opportunities can quickly become exhausting and divert you from your main objectives.

It’s best to start with one activity that aligns with your skills and interests, and thoroughly explore it before considering branching out into other ideas. Another common mistake is underestimating the importance of quality. Whether it’s photos, videos, or text, sloppy work can harm your credibility and, therefore, your success.

Being cautious of scams is also crucial. Some platforms or offers promise quick, easy earnings but turn out to be unreliable—or even fraudulent. Take the time to check the reputation of the services you use and remain skeptical of opportunities that seem too good to be true.

Finally, time management is a major challenge. Many underestimate the time required to achieve a certain level of results or abandon their efforts too soon. Set realistic goals and dedicate regular time to your activity to achieve sustainable outcomes.

A stylish man on a sofa earning money with his phone. Whatever idea you choose, the key to earning money with your phone is to fully commit to the project, act thoughtfully and methodically, and respond intelligently when things don’t go as planned.

FAQ

Is it really possible to earn a decent income solely with a smartphone?

Yes, it’s entirely possible, but it depends on the chosen activity, your level of involvement, and your strategy. Thousands of people earn significant income through their smartphones, especially in fields like social media, online sales, or content creation.

How long does it take to start seeing significant income?

This varies depending on the idea implemented. Some activities, like completing paid surveys, allow you to earn money within days, while others, like creating a YouTube channel or investing in stocks, may take several months to become profitable.

Can I combine multiple ideas to maximize my earnings?

Absolutely. Many people combine different activities to diversify their income. However, be cautious not to spread yourself too thin. It’s better to start a second activity only after the first is well-established.

What if I don’t have any particular skills?

Several ideas mentioned here require no specific skills, like reading paid emails or answering surveys. Others can be quickly learned through online tutorials, like photography or managing social media accounts.

Is it mandatory to invest money to get started?

No, many activities mentioned in this article require no initial investment. Some ideas, like creating online courses or investing in stocks, do require a certain starting budget, but you’re free to choose what suits your available resources.

How do I choose the activity that best suits me?

Identify your skills, interests, and the time you can dedicate to an activity. If you enjoy creating, options like selling T-shirts online or becoming an influencer might be suitable. If you prefer simple tasks, paid surveys or reading emails are ideal options.

Are the incomes generated through these ideas stable?

It depends on the activity. Some, like freelancing or managing social media, can offer regular income. Others, like online product sales or investments, might fluctuate based on demand or market conditions.

Last thoughts

Starting a money-making activity with your smartphone can be both exciting and rewarding. Depending on the type of activity, it requires discipline and organization. Take the time to carefully choose one or two ideas that align with your skills, interests, and available time. Start small, test your capabilities, and adjust your strategy based on the results. Consistency is often the key to success and seeing significant progress.

Keep in mind that not all income streams develop at the same pace. Some activities provide quick but modest gains, while others require initial time or monetary investment before yielding results. Be realistic in your expectations and don’t give up too quickly if results take time. Consider developing your skills in parallel, as this can greatly increase your chances of success and open new opportunities.

Finally, remain vigilant against scams. Be wary of offers promising overly easy gains or requiring upfront payments without guarantees. Research the platforms or services you use, read reviews, and consult reliable sources.

With a thoughtful approach and a good smartphone as your primary tool, you can turn your time and skills into sustainable and interesting income opportunities.

This article could be completed or improved with your help. Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any question, a relevant remark, a feedback, additional information or spotted any error.Go to comments

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