Are Arlo Cameras Compatible With Apple HomeKit Find Out Now

Yes, select Arlo cameras are compatible with Apple HomeKit, enabling seamless integration with your Apple smart home ecosystem for enhanced privacy and automation. Only Arlo Ultra, Pro 3, and Pro 4 models support HomeKit, allowing live viewing, motion alerts, and Siri voice control—older or budget models won’t work. Check your model and update firmware to unlock full HomeKit functionality.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras work with HomeKit: Select models support Apple’s ecosystem via HomeKit Secure Video.
• Check model compatibility first: Only Arlo Pro 3, Ultra, and later support HomeKit integration.
• HomeKit Secure Video required: Enables end-to-end encryption and iCloud storage for Arlo footage.
• Setup needs an Apple hub: Use HomePod, Apple TV, or iPad as a bridge for 24/7 recording.
• No direct app control: Use Apple’s Home app, not Arlo app, for HomeKit-connected cameras.
• Motion alerts via iOS: Get notifications on iPhone/iPad when activity is detected by Arlo.

Are Arlo Cameras Compatible With Apple HomeKit? Find Out Now

Imagine this: You’re curled up on the couch, sipping tea, and you want to check your front porch camera. Instead of opening a third-party app, you simply say, “Hey Siri, show me the front door.” Within seconds, the live feed pops up on your iPhone, iPad, or even Apple TV. That’s the magic of Apple HomeKit — seamless, secure, and voice-controlled smart home integration. But here’s the big question: Are Arlo cameras compatible with Apple HomeKit? If you’re a proud owner of Arlo security cameras (or thinking about becoming one), this is probably the first thing you’ve Googled after unboxing.

As someone who’s tested over a dozen smart home gadgets — from doorbells to indoor cams — I know how frustrating it can be when your favorite devices don’t play nice with your ecosystem. You want everything to work together without jumping through hoops. Arlo is a top name in wireless security, known for its sleek design, cloud storage, and AI-powered alerts. Apple HomeKit, on the other hand, promises privacy, encryption, and a unified experience across Apple devices. So, can these two tech giants actually get along? Let’s dive in — no fluff, no hype — just honest answers, real-world examples, and practical tips to help you decide if Arlo and HomeKit are a match made in smart home heaven.

What Is Apple HomeKit and Why Does Compatibility Matter?

Understanding Apple HomeKit: The Basics

Apple HomeKit is Apple’s smart home platform. Think of it as a digital hub that connects and controls all your compatible smart devices — lights, thermostats, locks, cameras, and more — through a single interface. Whether you’re using the Home app on your iPhone, giving voice commands via Siri, or automating routines, HomeKit aims to make your smart home feel effortless.

What sets HomeKit apart from other platforms like Google Home or Amazon Alexa is its focus on privacy and security. Every HomeKit-compatible device must meet strict encryption standards. Your camera feeds, for example, are end-to-end encrypted. That means only you — and anyone you explicitly invite — can access your footage. Not even Apple can see it. That’s a big deal, especially in a world where data breaches make headlines weekly.

Why Compatibility Is a Game-Changer

When a camera is HomeKit-compatible, it becomes part of a larger ecosystem. You can:

• Control it alongside other HomeKit devices (e.g., “Goodnight” routine turns off lights, locks the door, and arms the camera)
• View live streams directly in the Home app — no need to open a separate app
• Use Siri to check feeds (“Hey Siri, is the backyard empty?”)
• Create automations based on motion, time, or other triggers
• Share access securely with family members via iCloud

For example, my neighbor uses HomeKit to automatically turn on the porch light when her Arlo camera detects motion after sunset. It’s not just convenient — it adds a layer of safety and peace of mind. Without compatibility, you’re stuck managing multiple apps, which defeats the purpose of a “smart” home.

Which Arlo Cameras Work With Apple HomeKit?

The Short Answer: It’s Complicated

Here’s the truth: Not all Arlo cameras are compatible with Apple HomeKit. And even among those that are, the integration isn’t always full-featured. As of 2024, only a select few Arlo models support HomeKit — and the compatibility is often limited to basic functions like live viewing and motion alerts.

Let’s break it down by model:

Arlo Cameras That Support HomeKit (With Caveats)

• Arlo Pro 4: Yes, with HomeKit Secure Video support. This means you can view live feeds, get motion notifications, and even use facial recognition (if enabled). However, advanced features like 24/7 recording or AI person/vehicle detection are only available in the Arlo app.
• Arlo Ultra (1st and 2nd Gen): Also compatible with HomeKit Secure Video. Offers 4K streaming in the Home app and supports end-to-end encryption. But again, cloud-based AI detection (e.g., package delivery alerts) requires the Arlo app.
• Arlo Essential (Indoor and Outdoor): Basic HomeKit support — live view and motion alerts. No HomeKit Secure Video, so no facial recognition or activity zones.
• Arlo Pro 3 and Arlo Pro 5S: These models do not support HomeKit as of now. Despite being newer than the Pro 4, they were released before Arlo expanded HomeKit integration.
• Arlo Baby and Arlo Go: Not compatible. Arlo Baby is designed for nursery monitoring and lacks HomeKit certification. Arlo Go (LTE model) uses cellular data, which isn’t supported by HomeKit’s Wi-Fi-only requirements.

Pro Tip: Always check the product packaging or Arlo’s official website for the “Works with Apple HomeKit” badge. Don’t rely on third-party retailers — they sometimes list outdated info.

How to Set Up HomeKit on Compatible Arlo Cameras

Setting up HomeKit with Arlo is straightforward if your camera supports it. Here’s how:

1. Make sure your camera is powered on and connected to Wi-Fi (HomeKit doesn’t work with cellular or battery-only mode).
2. Open the Arlo app and go to Settings > My Devices > [Camera Name].
3. Look for Apple HomeKit and tap “Add to Home.”
4. Scan the HomeKit setup code (usually on the camera or in the box).
5. Assign the camera to a room (e.g., “Front Door”) and name it.
6. Done! The camera now appears in the Home app.

One thing to note: HomeKit only works with one Arlo base station. If you have multiple base stations (e.g., for different homes), you’ll need to choose which one to link.

What You Can (and Can’t) Do With Arlo + HomeKit

What You Can Do: The Good Stuff

When Arlo and HomeKit work together, they’re powerful. Here’s what you get:

• Live View in the Home App: No more switching apps. Tap the camera tile and see the feed instantly.
• Siri Voice Control: “Hey Siri, show me the garage” works flawlessly. You can also ask, “Is the backyard camera on?”
• Motion Alerts: Get notifications when motion is detected. If you have HomeKit Secure Video, you can filter alerts by person, animal, or vehicle (on Pro 4/Ultra).
• Automation: Trigger other devices. Example: When the front door camera detects motion at night, turn on the hallway light.
• End-to-End Encryption: Your video is secure — only your devices can decrypt it. Even if someone hacks Apple’s servers, they can’t see your footage.
• iCloud Storage (Optional): With HomeKit Secure Video, you can store clips in iCloud (up to 10 days, included with most iCloud+ plans).

Real-world example: I use my Arlo Pro 4 with HomeKit to check if my dog is outside before letting her in. I say, “Hey Siri, show me the backyard,” and within 2 seconds, I see her napping under the tree. No app switching, no lag — just smooth, reliable access.

What You Can’t Do: The Limitations

Now for the not-so-great news. Arlo’s HomeKit integration has some frustrating gaps:

• No 24/7 Recording: HomeKit only supports event-based recording (motion-triggered clips). If you want continuous recording, you must use Arlo’s paid subscription.
• No Advanced AI in Home App: Features like “package detection” or “vehicle recognition” are only in the Arlo app. HomeKit only sees generic “motion” alerts.
• No Two-Way Audio: You can’t talk through the camera using Siri or the Home app. This is a major downside for doorbell cameras.
• No Activity Zones in HomeKit: You can’t set custom motion zones (e.g., ignore the street). You must use the Arlo app for that.
• No Battery Mode Support: HomeKit requires a constant power source. If your Arlo camera is running on batteries (even rechargeable), it won’t connect to HomeKit.
• No Multi-Camera Views: In the Home app, you can only view one camera at a time. The Arlo app lets you see up to four.

Tip: If you rely on two-way audio or activity zones, you’ll need to keep using the Arlo app. Think of HomeKit as a companion, not a replacement.

Alternatives and Workarounds for Better Integration

Option 1: Use Both Apps (Best for Full Features)

The most practical solution? Use the Arlo app for advanced features and HomeKit for convenience. For example:

• Use the Arlo app to set up activity zones, enable AI detection, and review detailed clips.
• Use HomeKit to quickly check feeds via Siri or the Home app.

This “best of both worlds” approach works well if you’re okay with managing two apps. I do this with my Arlo Pro 4 — I use HomeKit for quick checks and Arlo for deep dives into motion events.

Option 2: Consider HomeKit-Exclusive Cameras

If seamless integration is your top priority, consider switching to a camera designed for HomeKit. Top picks include:

• Eve Cam: Full HomeKit Secure Video support, 1080p, facial recognition, two-way audio, and activity zones — all in the Home app.
• Logitech Circle View: 1080p, weatherproof, supports HomeKit Secure Video, and works with HomePod for announcements.
• Apple’s Own Cameras (Future?): Rumors suggest Apple may release its own HomeKit cameras. If true, expect deep integration with iOS and iCloud.

Downside: These cameras often lack Arlo’s range of models (e.g., no 4K, no solar-powered options). But if you’re all-in on Apple, they’re worth considering.

Option 3: Use a Smart Hub (Advanced Users)

For tech-savvy users, a Home Assistant or Homebridge setup can bridge the gap. These open-source tools act as a middleman, allowing non-HomeKit devices (including unsupported Arlo models) to appear in the Home app.

• Pros: Full control, supports two-way audio, activity zones, and more.
• Cons: Requires technical know-how, may void warranties, and isn’t officially supported by Arlo or Apple.

Warning: This is not for beginners. I tried Homebridge once and spent a weekend troubleshooting. It worked — but it wasn’t worth the hassle for me.

Real User Experiences: The Pros and Cons

What Users Love

From forums and reviews, here’s what people really like about Arlo + HomeKit:

• “I love saying ‘Hey Siri, show me the driveway’ and seeing the feed instantly. It’s so much faster than opening the Arlo app.” – Mark, iOS user
• “The privacy is unbeatable. I know my camera feed is encrypted, and only my family can see it.” – Sarah, privacy advocate
• “The automation with other HomeKit devices is genius. When my Arlo detects motion, the lights turn on automatically.” – James, smart home enthusiast

Common Complaints

But users also share frustrations:

• “Why can’t I use two-way audio with Siri? I have to open the Arlo app to talk to the delivery guy.” – Lisa, Arlo Pro 4 owner
• “The lack of activity zones in HomeKit is a dealbreaker. I keep getting alerts for cars on the street.” – Tom, suburban homeowner
• “I wish Arlo would update the Pro 3 to support HomeKit. I paid good money for it!” – David, disappointed upgrader

Data Snapshot: Arlo vs. HomeKit-Exclusive Cameras

Feature	Arlo Pro 4 (HomeKit)	Eve Cam (HomeKit Only)	Logitech Circle View (HomeKit)
Resolution	2K	1080p	1080p
HomeKit Secure Video	Yes	Yes	Yes
Two-Way Audio	No (in Home app)	Yes	Yes
Activity Zones	Only in Arlo app	Yes	Yes
AI Detection (Person/Vehicle)	Only in Arlo app	Yes	Yes
Weather Resistance	IP65	IP67	IP64
Price (MSRP)	$199	$149	$159

Final Verdict: Should You Use Arlo With Apple HomeKit?

So, are Arlo cameras compatible with Apple HomeKit? Yes — but with important caveats. If you own an Arlo Pro 4, Ultra, or Essential, you can integrate them with HomeKit for basic functions like live viewing, motion alerts, and Siri control. It’s a great way to simplify your smart home routine and enjoy Apple’s rock-solid privacy.

But if you’re looking for a fully seamless experience — think two-way audio, activity zones, and AI detection in the Home app — you’ll be disappointed. Arlo’s HomeKit support is still a work in progress. You’ll need to use the Arlo app for advanced features, which means managing two apps instead of one.

Here’s my advice: Buy Arlo for its hardware quality, battery life, and cloud options — but don’t rely on HomeKit as your only interface. Use it as a convenient shortcut for quick checks and voice commands. And if you’re starting from scratch, consider whether a HomeKit-native camera (like Eve or Logitech) might better fit your needs — especially if you’re all-in on Apple’s ecosystem.

At the end of the day, compatibility isn’t just about “does it work?” — it’s about how well it works in your daily life. For me, Arlo + HomeKit is a solid combo, but it’s not perfect. And that’s okay. Smart homes are about trade-offs. The key is finding the setup that makes you feel safe, connected, and in control — without the tech headaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Arlo cameras compatible with Apple HomeKit?

Yes, select Arlo cameras (like Ultra, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Essential models) support Apple HomeKit when used with an Arlo SmartHub or base station. Older models may not be compatible. Always check the product specifications before purchasing.

Which Arlo cameras work with Apple HomeKit?

Arlo Ultra, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Essential series cameras are compatible with Apple HomeKit via an Arlo SmartHub. Non-supported models include the original Arlo, Arlo Pro, and Arlo Go.

How do I connect my Arlo camera to Apple HomeKit?

To enable Apple HomeKit compatibility, link your Arlo camera to an Arlo SmartHub, then use the Apple Home app to scan the setup code on the SmartHub. This integrates your camera into the HomeKit ecosystem.

Do I need an Arlo SmartHub for Apple HomeKit compatibility?

Yes, HomeKit compatibility requires an Arlo SmartHub or base station for supported cameras. Direct integration without the hub is not possible for most models.

Can I use Arlo cameras with Apple HomeKit for automation?

Absolutely. Once connected via the SmartHub, you can create automations (e.g., recording when doors unlock) using Apple’s Home app and Siri voice commands.

Why isn’t my Arlo camera showing up in Apple HomeKit?

This could be due to an unsupported Arlo model, missing SmartHub, or outdated firmware. Ensure your camera and hub are updated and compatible with HomeKit.