6 Smart Ways to Make Money Using Your Smartphone

Our phones have become part of everyday life, from chatting on WhatsApp to ordering groceries and running small businesses. But here’s something most people overlook: that same phone in your hand can help you make money.

More than 20 million South Africans use smartphones every day. That same device can do more than scroll or text, it can help you earn. You don’t need extra gear or special skills, just the phone you already have and a bit of consistency.

Your phone’s already part of your daily life. With a few smart moves, it can start earning for you too, from small cash boosts to something more consistent.

1. Take online surveys and earn on the go

Many South Africans are earning small amounts just by sharing their opinions. Brands often pay for honest opinions on their products. A few minutes answering questions on apps like SurveyFiesta or Swagbucks can bring in small payments during your downtime.

Apps like SurveyFiesta, Swagbucks, and Branded Surveys let you complete short surveys in your own time. You can fill them in while waiting for the kids, sitting in traffic, or relaxing on the couch. Each completed survey earns you cash or points you can convert to vouchers.

It’s not life-changing money, but it’s one of the simplest ways to make extra cash from your phone, no special skills required.

2. Get paid to watch videos

We all spend hours scrolling through reels or YouTube shorts. If you already watch videos on your phone, some apps will reward you for it.

Apps like InboxDollars and Swagbucks offer small rewards for viewing videos or trying new apps. The key is to pick reputable apps and avoid anything asking for upfront payments.

Think of it as turning entertainment into pocket money. The payouts are small, but it’s an easy way to earn while you unwind.

3. Sell products or services from your phone

If you’ve ever thought about starting a business, your smartphone can do nearly everything you need, from marketing to payments. You can sell handmade crafts, second-hand clothes, baked goods, or offer services like tutoring, haircuts or repairs.

With tools like iK Pay Link in the iKhokha App, you don’t even need a website. Create a payment link, send it via WhatsApp, and get paid instantly when your customer taps the link. It’s fast, safe, and works perfectly for freelancers, spaza owners, or anyone taking orders online.

Your phone handles the admin while you focus on growing your small business.

4. Become a social media creator

Many local creators are earning through TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram by sharing everyday content, from street food reviews to small-business tips. If you have something to say, teach, or show which could be from makeup tutorials to local food reviews - there’s an audience for it.

Start by posting consistently and engaging with your followers. As your page grows, brands might reach out for collaborations or product mentions. You can also join affiliate programmes, where you earn commission each time someone buys through your link.

Creating content takes effort, but your phone already gives you the camera, editing tools, and platform to start. Focus on what feels real to you and post regularly; consistency matters more than fancy gear.

5. Sell photos or short videos

You don’t need a professional camera to capture great images. Modern smartphones can produce photos good enough to sell. Apps like Foap and Shutterstock Contributor let you upload photos and short clips for brands and creators to buy.

Focus on original South African scenes — street life, sunsets, food, or cultural events. Every time someone downloads your photo, you earn a commission.

If you already love snapping pictures, this is a simple way to turn your creativity into cash.

6. Play mobile games for rewards

Believe it or not, playing games can earn you real rewards. Apps like Mistplay give you points for testing and playing mobile games. You can later exchange those points for vouchers or gift cards.

It’s ideal for anyone who enjoys gaming in their downtime. Just stick to verified platforms and remember, this is best as a fun side activity, not a full-time job.

Still, it’s proof that sometimes, a bit of screen time can literally pay off.

7. Offer online tutoring or coaching

If you’re good at maths, English, coding, or even creative writing, you can offer lessons through your phone. Apps like Preply and Wyzant connect tutors with students locally and abroad. You can also use WhatsApp video calls or Zoom to run your own private sessions.

Parents often prefer tutors who are flexible and available online. This means you can teach from anywhere, even during evenings or weekends.

Set your own rates, keep lessons short, and use your smartphone as your digital classroom.

8. Try user testing or product feedback

Companies spend big money improving websites and apps, and they rely on real users to test them. Platforms like UserTesting and Respondent.io pay you to record your thoughts while exploring a site or app.

It’s straightforward work, follow the task, share your honest feedback, and earn after completing the review. Each test usually takes 10 to 20 minutes and can pay in dollars (converted to rands).

It’s a clever way to earn money using your phone while helping brands improve their user experience.

9. Manage social media for businesses

Many small businesses don’t have time to post consistently. If you understand social media or enjoy creating content, you can manage pages for local brands.

From scheduling posts to responding to followers, everything can be done from your smartphone. Apps like Canva, Meta Business Suite, and CapCut make it simple to design posts and edit videos right from your device.

Charge a monthly fee, track results, and grow your client base. It’s a skill-based side hustle that can easily turn into a full-time digital business.

10. Get cashback from everyday shopping

If you’re already spending money on groceries or household items, why not earn a bit back? SnapnSave is a local app that pays you cashback for snapping your till slips.

Book the items in the app, shop as usual, then upload your receipt. Once verified, the cashback is credited to your account. You can withdraw once you hit a minimum balance.

It’s one of the easiest ways to earn something back from your daily spending — and all it takes is your phone camera.

11. Turn your phone into a card machine

If you sell at markets or move between customers, you don’t need to worry about carrying cash or extra card machines. With iK Tap on Phone, your smartphone becomes a contactless card machine.

Download the iKhokha App, sign up, and start accepting card payments directly on your Android device. Customers just tap their cards or phones to pay.

It’s safe, convenient, and perfect for South African hustlers who want to keep sales moving without worrying about cash handling or expensive terminals.

Your smartphone: a whole business in your pocket

In 2025, your smartphone isn’t just for scrolling, it’s a mini business hub. From surveys and photos to digital payments, there are countless ways to earn or grow your side hustle without leaving your couch.

Every bit of income helps. With the right tools, your phone can handle payments, sales, and even customer messages. The iKhokha App makes that part easy, just download it and start getting paid from the device you already use every day.