Last Updated on March 21, 2025 by Successful Black Parenting Staff

Babies are expensive, and it’s easy to get caught up in all the gadgets and gear marketed to new parents.  Between diapers, formula, and endless baby clothes, every penny counts. But here’s the thing – you don’t need to break the bank on a baby monitor.

The truth is, you can get all the features you need without spending a fortune. The key to saving money on baby monitors is simpler than you might think.  Ready for the best tip? Look no further than your smartphone. That’s right – using a baby monitor app can save you tons of money while still offering baby safety. Let’s dive into how you can make it work for you.

Use What You Have—Smartphones Are Key

A baby monitor app is a total game changer, and here’s why: no expensive devices, no extra clutter. All you need is two smartphones (which you already have) and a baby monitor app.

In fact, many parents are already using smartphones and tablets to monitor their babies in creative ways, such as FaceTime™, WhatsApp™ calls, Google Meet™, voice calls, or Zoom™. Yes, these are clever solutions.  But they are not reliable, are they? 

And here’s where the Annie Baby Monitor comes in; it’s actually the same thing—an app running on two phones. But Annie Baby Monitor levels up the game with features of the classic baby monitor—like motion detection, cry alerts, sleep analytics, a lullabies player, and night vision. It’s like having a high-tech baby monitor without the high-tech price tag.

How to Turn Your Phone Into a Baby Monitor

Do you have an old phone or tablet lying around? Perfect! You can turn it into a baby monitor with the Annie Baby Monitor app. All you need is two devices (yes, that extra phone you’ve been keeping for “just in case” will work) and a Wi-Fi connection. No cellular service is required—just hook both devices up to the same network.

To get started, download the Annie Baby Monitor app on both devices. One will be the camera, and the other will act as your monitor. Place the camera device in the nursery, positioning it so you can get a clear view of your baby. Make sure the camera device is plugged in and powered up—you don’t want it dying in the middle of your baby’s nap. 

If you’re interested in trying Annie Baby Monitor out, you’ll be thrilled to hear that there’s a free three-day trial just for you! So go ahead, why not give it a shot? Once the trial’s over, you can pick a plan that works best for you—whether it’s weekly, monthly, or yearly.

We know finding the perfect baby monitor can feel a little overwhelming, but don’t worry; parenting can be a bit tricky, too! Take your time, and trust that you’ll find the right match for your family. You’re going to love using the Annie baby monitor.