Are Arlo Cameras Compatible With Google Home Find Out Now

Yes, Arlo cameras are compatible with Google Home, allowing seamless integration for voice control, live streaming, and smart alerts via the Google Assistant. Most Arlo models, including Pro, Ultra, and Essential series, work effortlessly with Google Home through the Arlo app, enabling you to view feeds, arm/disarm systems, and receive motion notifications using simple voice commands.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras work with Google Home via the Google Home app for seamless integration.
• Enable the Arlo skill in Google Home to link your camera account quickly.
• Use voice commands like “Hey Google, show me the front door” for live feeds.
• Check firmware updates to ensure full compatibility and avoid connectivity issues.
• Google Nest Hub recommended for best viewing experience with Arlo cameras.
• Two-way audio supported on most Arlo models for real-time communication.

Are Arlo Cameras Compatible With Google Home? Find Out Now

Imagine this: You’re lounging on the couch, phone in one hand, snack in the other, when someone rings your doorbell. Without moving a muscle, you say, “Hey Google, show me the front door,” and instantly, your TV displays your Arlo video doorbell feed. No app switching, no frantic tapping—just seamless, voice-activated peace of mind. Sounds like a dream, right? But is it actually possible? That’s the question on the minds of countless smart home enthusiasts: Are Arlo cameras compatible with Google Home?

As someone who’s juggled multiple smart devices over the years—some that worked flawlessly, others that left me pulling out my hair—I get it. Compatibility is the unsung hero of the smart home experience. You don’t want to invest in a top-tier security camera only to find out it doesn’t “talk” to your voice assistant. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the relationship between Arlo and Google Home. We’ll explore which models work, how to set them up, what features you can expect, and where the gaps might leave you wanting more. Whether you’re building your first smart home or upgrading your security system, this is your no-nonsense, real-world breakdown.

Understanding Arlo and Google Home: The Basics

What Are Arlo Cameras?

Arlo, a brand owned by Netgear, is one of the most popular names in the wireless security camera market. Known for their sleek designs, easy installation, and strong video quality, Arlo cameras come in several varieties: indoor, outdoor, doorbells, floodlights, and even pet monitoring models. They’re battery-powered or plug-in, often weather-resistant, and rely on cloud storage (though local options exist with base stations).

What sets Arlo apart is its flexibility. You can start small with a single camera or build a full ecosystem with multiple devices, all managed through the Arlo app. But here’s the catch: flexibility doesn’t always mean compatibility. While Arlo integrates beautifully with Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and IFTTT, its relationship with Google Home has been… complicated.

What Is Google Home?

Google Home is more than just a speaker—it’s an entire ecosystem. It includes the Google Nest Hub, Google Nest Audio, Nest Mini, and even third-party smart displays powered by Google Assistant. At its core, Google Home lets you control smart devices using voice commands, view camera feeds on compatible screens, and automate routines (like turning on lights when motion is detected).

The key to Google Home’s power is its ability to “talk” to other smart devices through integrations. When a device is “Google Home compatible,” it means you can add it to your Google Home app, assign it to rooms, and control it via voice or the app. But not every device plays nice. So, where does Arlo fit in?

The Compatibility Landscape

Here’s the short answer: Yes, many Arlo cameras are compatible with Google Home—but with caveats. The compatibility isn’t universal across all models and firmware versions. It also depends on whether you’re using a Google Assistant-enabled speaker or a screen (like a Nest Hub). And while setup is possible, the experience isn’t always as smooth as with Alexa or HomeKit.

Let’s say you have an Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera. You can view its live feed on your Nest Hub, but you might not be able to arm/disarm it via voice. Or, if you’re using an older Arlo model, the integration might be limited or require a workaround. Understanding these nuances is key to avoiding frustration down the line.

Which Arlo Cameras Work With Google Home?

Officially Supported Models

Arlo has gradually improved its Google Home integration over the years. As of 2023–2024, the following models are officially supported and work reliably with Google Assistant:

• Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 (with or without spotlight)
• Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2
• Arlo Essential Indoor and Outdoor (including wire-free models)
• Arlo Essential Video Doorbell (wired and wire-free)
• Arlo Go (LTE camera)
• Arlo Floodlight Cameras

These models are designed to work with Google Assistant through the Google Home app. You can view live feeds, receive motion alerts, and even use voice commands to check camera status.

Legacy and Older Models: Proceed With Caution

Here’s where things get tricky. Older models like the original Arlo Pro, Arlo Pro 2, and Arlo Q have limited or no official support for Google Home. While some users have reported success using IFTTT (If This Then That) or third-party workarounds, the experience is inconsistent.

For example, I tried connecting my old Arlo Q to Google Home using IFTTT. I could trigger a notification when motion was detected, but I couldn’t view the live feed on my Nest Hub. The camera would show “Offline” or “Not Supported” in the Google Home app. Arlo has phased out support for these models, so don’t expect updates to fix the issue.

What About Arlo Base Stations and Hubs?

If you’re using an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station (like the one for Arlo Pro 3), it doesn’t change the compatibility. The hub is just a bridge—it doesn’t enhance or restrict Google Home integration. The camera itself determines whether it can connect. So, if your Arlo Ultra is connected to a hub, it still works the same way as a direct Wi-Fi model.

Real-World Example: Setting Up an Arlo Pro 4 with Google Home

Let’s walk through a real setup. I recently installed an Arlo Pro 4 in my backyard. Here’s how I linked it to Google Home:

1. Set up the camera in the Arlo app (connected to Wi-Fi, tested motion detection).
2. Opened the Google Home app on my phone.
3. Clicked “+” > “Set up device” > “Works with Google” > searched for “Arlo”.
4. Logged into my Arlo account (same credentials as the app).
5. Selected the Pro 4 camera and assigned it to the “Backyard” room.
6. Tested with voice: “Hey Google, show me the backyard camera.”

The feed appeared on my Nest Hub Max in about 3 seconds. I could pan, zoom (digitally), and hear audio. When motion was detected, I got a notification on my phone and a pop-up on the Nest Hub. Success!

How to Set Up Arlo With Google Home (Step-by-Step)

Prerequisites Before You Start

Before diving into setup, make sure you have:

• A Google account (obviously).
• A Google Assistant-enabled device (Nest Hub, Nest Audio, Android phone, etc.).
• An Arlo account with at least one compatible camera (see list above).
• The latest version of the Arlo and Google Home apps.
• Stable Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz recommended; 5 GHz may cause issues with some Arlo models).

Pro tip: Restart your router and all devices before starting. A fresh network connection can prevent “connection failed” errors.

Step 1: Update Your Arlo App and Cameras

Open the Arlo app and check for updates. Go to Settings > My Devices and ensure all cameras are running the latest firmware. Arlo often rolls out compatibility fixes in updates. If your camera isn’t updated, Google Home may not recognize it.

Step 2: Link Arlo to Google Home

1. Open the Google Home app.
2. Tap the “+” icon in the top-left corner.
3. Select “Set up device” > “Works with Google” > “Have something already set up?”.
4. Search for “Arlo” and tap the official Arlo integration.
5. You’ll be redirected to a browser window. Log in with your Arlo account.
6. Grant Google access to your Arlo devices. Review the permissions (Google can view camera feeds and receive alerts).
7. Once linked, return to the Google Home app.

You should now see your Arlo cameras listed under “Devices.”

Step 3: Assign Cameras to Rooms

Drag each camera into a room (e.g., “Front Door,” “Living Room”). This makes voice commands easier. Instead of saying, “Hey Google, show me the Arlo Pro 4 camera,” you can say, “Hey Google, show me the front door.”

Step 4: Test Voice Commands

Try these commands to verify everything works:

• “Hey Google, show me [camera name].” (Displays live feed on screen devices.)
• “Hey Google, hide [camera name].” (Closes the feed.)
• “Hey Google, is [camera name] online?” (Checks status.)

Note: You cannot arm/disarm Arlo cameras via voice with Google Home (yet). You’ll need the Arlo app for that.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

Even with compatible models, things can go wrong. Here are fixes I’ve used:

• “Camera not found” error? Unlink and relink Arlo in the Google Home app. Sometimes the connection times out.
• Feed won’t load? Check Wi-Fi strength near the camera. Arlo cameras need at least 2 bars.
• Audio not working? Google Home doesn’t support two-way audio with Arlo. You’ll hear sound, but can’t talk back.
• Delayed feed? This is normal. Google Home adds a 2–5 second delay due to streaming protocols.

What You Can (and Can’t) Do With Arlo and Google Home

Features That Work Great

• Live View on Screens: The biggest win. View any Arlo camera on your Nest Hub, Nest Hub Max, or Android TV. Perfect for checking the front door without unlocking your phone.
• Motion Alerts: When Arlo detects motion, you’ll get a push notification on your phone and a pop-up on Google Home screens. You can even set routines (e.g., “When motion is detected, turn on the porch light”).
• Voice Commands: “Hey Google, show me the baby monitor” works flawlessly. Great for parents or pet owners.
• Multi-Camera Support: You can view up to 4 Arlo feeds at once on a Nest Hub Max (split-screen mode).

Limitations and Missing Features

Now for the reality check. Arlo and Google Home don’t offer:

• Two-Way Audio: You can hear what’s happening, but can’t talk back. With Alexa, you can say, “Alexa, talk to the front door,” and have a conversation. Not with Google Home.
• Arm/Disarm via Voice: You must use the Arlo app to enable/disable cameras. Google Home can’t control Arlo’s security modes.
• Smart Alerts (Person, Vehicle, Package): While Arlo’s AI detects these, Google Home only receives generic “motion detected” alerts. You’ll still need the Arlo app to see who or what triggered it.
• Recording Controls: No voice command to start/stop recording or save clips.

For me, the lack of two-way audio is the biggest drawback. When my dog barks at a delivery person, I want to say, “It’s okay, buddy,” through the camera. With Alexa, I can. With Google Home, I’m stuck listening.

Workarounds and Tips

Don’t give up yet! Here are ways to get more out of the integration:

• Use IFTTT for Custom Routines: Create an IFTTT applet that turns on a smart plug when Arlo detects motion. Or, send a text alert to your phone.
• Combine with Other Devices: Pair Arlo with a Google Nest Doorbell. Use voice to view both feeds side by side.
• Set Up Geofencing: Use the Arlo app to auto-arm/disarm when you leave/arrive home. Google Home can’t do this, but the Arlo app can.
• Use Google Routines: Create a “Good Morning” routine that shows your front door camera on the Nest Hub when you say, “Hey Google, good morning.”

Comparing Arlo’s Google Home Integration to Competitors

Arlo vs. Google Nest Cameras

Google’s own Nest cameras (like Nest Cam IQ, Nest Doorbell) are native to the Google Home ecosystem. They offer:

• Two-way audio via voice
• Arm/disarm via voice
• Smart alerts (person, vehicle, etc.) in Google Home
• Seamless routines (e.g., “When I say ‘I’m leaving,’ arm all cameras”)

But Nest cameras are often more expensive, less flexible (many require wiring), and have fewer battery options. Arlo wins on versatility, but Google wins on integration.

Arlo vs. Ring

Ring (owned by Amazon) works flawlessly with Alexa but has no official Google Home support. You’d need a screenless Echo device to use Ring with voice. So, if you’re Team Google, Arlo is the better choice.

Data Table: Key Features Comparison

Feature	Arlo + Google Home	Nest + Google Home	Ring + Alexa
Live View on Screen	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes (on Echo Show)
Two-Way Audio via Voice	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Arm/Disarm via Voice	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Smart Alerts in App	✅ Yes (Arlo app)	✅ Yes (Google Home app)	✅ Yes (Ring app)
Wire-Free Options	✅ Many	✅ Limited	✅ Many
Local Storage	✅ Yes (with hub)	❌ No (cloud only)	✅ Yes (Ring Alarm Pro)

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

So, back to the original question: Are Arlo cameras compatible with Google Home? The answer is a cautious yes. If you’re using a newer Arlo model (Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Essential, etc.), you’ll get solid integration—live views, motion alerts, and voice commands. It’s not perfect, but it’s functional and reliable.

However, if you need features like two-way audio, voice-controlled arming, or smart alerts in Google Home, you’ll be disappointed. In that case, consider switching to a Nest camera or using Arlo alongside a secondary system (like a Google Nest Doorbell) for full coverage.

For me, the trade-off is worth it. I love Arlo’s battery life, sleek design, and local storage options. The Google Home integration lets me check feeds hands-free, which is a game-changer when I’m cooking or holding a baby. I’ve accepted that I’ll use the Arlo app for advanced controls—it’s a small price to pay for flexibility.

Here’s my advice: Start with one compatible Arlo camera. Set it up with Google Home. Test the voice commands and live view. If it meets your needs, expand your system. If not, you haven’t lost much. Smart home tech is all about finding the right mix—and Arlo and Google Home, while not a dream team, can definitely be a solid duo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Arlo cameras compatible with Google Home?

Yes, most Arlo cameras are compatible with Google Home, allowing you to view live feeds, receive alerts, and control cameras using Google Assistant commands. Check your specific Arlo model’s compatibility on the Google Home app or Arlo’s official website.

How do I connect my Arlo camera to Google Home?

To connect your Arlo camera to Google Home, open the Google Home app, tap “Add,” select “Works with Google,” and search for “Arlo.” Follow the prompts to link your Arlo account and sync your devices.

Can I use Google Assistant to view my Arlo camera feed?

Absolutely! Once your Arlo camera is linked to Google Home, you can say, “Hey Google, show me the [camera name]” to view the live feed on compatible smart displays like Google Nest Hub.

Do all Arlo cameras work with Google Home, or only specific models?

Most newer Arlo cameras (like Pro, Ultra, and Essential series) work with Google Home, but older or discontinued models may lack support. Always verify compatibility for your specific model before setup.

Why isn’t my Arlo camera showing up in the Google Home app?

If your Arlo camera isn’t appearing, ensure it’s supported, your account is properly linked, and your firmware is up to date. Re-linking the Arlo service in the Google Home app often resolves the issue.

Can I use Google Home to arm/disarm my Arlo security system?

Yes, if your Arlo system includes an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station, you can use Google Assistant to arm or disarm it via voice commands like, “Hey Google, arm my Arlo system.”