Are Echo Show and Arlo Pro 2 Camera Compatible Here Is What You Need to Know

Are Echo Show and Arlo Pro 2 Camera Compatible Here Is What You Need to Know

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Yes, the Echo Show and Arlo Pro 2 camera are compatible, allowing seamless live video streaming and voice control via Alexa. This integration enhances home security by enabling real-time viewing, motion alerts, and two-way talk directly on your Echo Show screen—no extra hub required.

Key Takeaways

  • Direct compatibility: Echo Show works with Arlo Pro 2 via the Arlo app.
  • Voice commands: Use Alexa to view live feeds hands-free.
  • Setup required: Link accounts in the Alexa app for integration.
  • Motion alerts: Echo Show displays notifications from Arlo Pro 2 cameras.
  • Two-way audio: Speak through Echo Show using Arlo’s built-in mic and speaker.
  • Limited features: Not all Arlo Pro 2 functions are supported on Echo Show.

Understanding the Basics: What Are Echo Show and Arlo Pro 2?

What Is the Echo Show?

The Echo Show is Amazon’s line of smart displays powered by Alexa, the company’s virtual assistant. These devices come in various screen sizes—ranging from 5 inches to 10 inches or more—and combine the voice control of an Echo speaker with a visual interface. You can use it to check the weather, make video calls, stream videos, control smart home devices, and, most importantly for this discussion, view live feeds from compatible security cameras. Think of it as a digital hub for your home, where your voice is the remote control.

One of the standout features of the Echo Show is its ability to integrate with a wide range of smart home devices. Whether it’s turning off lights, adjusting the thermostat, or checking who’s at the front door, the Echo Show acts as a central command center. But for that last task—seeing who’s at the door—you need a camera that plays nicely with the device. And that’s where the Arlo Pro 2 comes into the picture.

What Is the Arlo Pro 2?

The Arlo Pro 2 is a wireless, weather-resistant security camera system developed by Arlo (formerly part of Netgear). It’s a popular choice among homeowners for its 1080p HD video quality, two-way audio, motion detection, and night vision. The system is designed to be easy to install—no wiring needed—and can be placed indoors or outdoors. It also supports local storage via a USB drive and offers optional cloud storage with activity zones and advanced motion detection.

What makes the Arlo Pro 2 especially appealing is its flexibility. You can use it as a standalone system via the Arlo app, but many users want to go a step further and integrate it with other smart home devices. That’s where compatibility with platforms like Amazon Alexa and devices like the Echo Show becomes crucial. After all, why open an app when you can just say, “Alexa, show me the front porch”?

Are Echo Show and Arlo Pro 2 Camera Compatible?

The Short Answer: Yes, But With a Few Conditions

Let’s cut to the chase: Yes, the Echo Show and Arlo Pro 2 are compatible. You can view live video from your Arlo Pro 2 cameras directly on your Echo Show screen using Amazon Alexa. This integration allows you to monitor your home in real time without reaching for your phone. It’s a seamless experience—once it’s set up correctly.

Are Echo Show and Arlo Pro 2 Camera Compatible Here Is What You Need to Know

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However, it’s not as simple as plugging in a cable or pairing via Bluetooth. The compatibility relies on cloud-to-cloud integration through the Alexa app. Both devices must be connected to the internet, and your Arlo account must be linked to your Amazon account. This means the feature only works if your Arlo Pro 2 is registered in the cloud (even if you’re using local storage). If your Arlo system is offline or not linked to the Arlo cloud, Alexa won’t be able to access the feed.

How the Integration Works

The process uses Amazon’s Smart Home Skill API, which allows third-party devices like Arlo to communicate with Alexa. When you say, “Alexa, show me the backyard,” Alexa sends a request to the Arlo cloud, which then streams the video to your Echo Show. This happens almost instantly, usually within 2–3 seconds. The quality is generally good—full 1080p if your internet connection is stable—and the audio syncs well.

Here’s a real-life example: Imagine you’re cooking dinner and hear a noise outside. Instead of pausing everything to grab your phone, you simply say, “Alexa, show me the side yard.” Within seconds, the Echo Show displays a live feed from your Arlo Pro 2. You see a raccoon knocking over the trash can—no need to panic. You can even use two-way audio to scare it off by saying, “Alexa, talk to the side yard camera,” and then speaking into the Echo Show. It’s convenient, hands-free, and surprisingly effective.

One thing to note: You can only view one camera at a time on the Echo Show. Unlike the Arlo app, which lets you see multiple cameras in a grid, Alexa only supports single-camera views. This is a limitation, but it’s understandable—Alexa prioritizes simplicity and speed over advanced multitasking.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Connect Arlo Pro 2 to Echo Show

Step 1: Set Up Your Arlo Pro 2 System

Before you even think about connecting to Echo Show, make sure your Arlo Pro 2 is fully set up and working. This includes:

  • Charging the cameras and base station (if using the Pro 2 base station)
  • Downloading the Arlo app on your smartphone or tablet
  • Creating an Arlo account and adding your cameras
  • Ensuring all cameras are connected to your Wi-Fi network
  • Verifying that live streaming works in the Arlo app

If any of these steps fail, the Alexa integration won’t work. Think of it like building a house—you need a solid foundation before adding the roof.

Step 2: Enable the Arlo Skill in the Alexa App

Now it’s time to connect the two ecosystems. Here’s how:

  • Open the Alexa app on your phone or tablet
  • Tap on the More tab (three lines) in the bottom right
  • Select Skills & Games
  • Tap the magnifying glass and search for “Arlo”
  • Find the official Arlo Smart Home skill and tap Enable to Use
  • You’ll be redirected to log in to your Arlo account. Enter your Arlo credentials
  • Once logged in, Alexa will sync your Arlo devices

After enabling the skill, Alexa will automatically discover your Arlo Pro 2 cameras. You’ll see them listed under “Devices” in the Alexa app. If a camera doesn’t appear, try disabling and re-enabling the skill or restarting your base station.

Step 3: Test the Connection

Now for the fun part—testing it out! Say one of the following voice commands to your Echo Show:

  • “Alexa, show me the front door.”
  • “Alexa, show the backyard camera.”
  • “Alexa, show me [camera name].”

If everything is set up correctly, the video should appear within a few seconds. You can also use the Alexa app to manually select a camera from the “Cameras” tab. Try it at different times of day to test night vision and motion detection.

Pro tip: Give your cameras simple, memorable names in the Arlo app (e.g., “Front Door,” “Garage,” “Back Porch”). This makes voice commands easier and reduces confusion. Avoid names like “Camera 1” or “Outdoor Unit B”—Alexa might mishear you.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Issue 1: “I Can’t See My Arlo Cameras in Alexa”

This is the most common problem. If your Arlo Pro 2 isn’t showing up in Alexa, here are the likely causes and fixes:

  • Arlo cloud not enabled: Even if you use local storage, the Arlo cloud must be active for Alexa integration. Go to the Arlo app > Settings > Account > Cloud Subscription and ensure it’s enabled (a free tier is available).
  • Incorrect login: Double-check that you’re using the same email and password for both Arlo and Alexa. If you have multiple Arlo accounts, make sure you’re linking the correct one.
  • Network issues: Restart your router and base station. A poor connection can prevent cloud syncing.
  • Skill not properly enabled: Disable the Arlo skill in Alexa, restart your Echo Show, then re-enable it.

Issue 2: Video Is Lagging or Freezing

If the video feed is choppy or slow, it’s usually due to network congestion. Try these fixes:

  • Move your Echo Show closer to the router: Wi-Fi signal strength matters. A weak signal can cause buffering.
  • Reduce camera resolution temporarily: In the Arlo app, go to camera settings and lower the resolution to 720p for testing. You can switch back to 1080p once stability improves.
  • Limit other devices: If someone’s streaming Netflix or downloading files, pause those activities and test again.
  • Use a Wi-Fi extender: If your Echo Show is in a far corner, a mesh network or extender can boost signal.

Issue 3: “Alexa Doesn’t Recognize the Camera Name”

Voice recognition isn’t perfect. If Alexa says, “I couldn’t find that camera,” try these tips:

  • Speak clearly and slowly: Avoid mumbling. Say “show me the front door” not “show front door.”
  • Use exact names: If the camera is named “Front Door,” don’t say “door camera.”
  • Rephrase the command: Try “Alexa, display the front door” or “Alexa, open the front door camera.”
  • Re-sync devices: In the Alexa app, go to Devices > Cameras > Discover Devices.

Real-world example: I once named a camera “Side Yard” and kept saying, “Alexa, show me the side.” It never worked. Once I changed the name to “Side Yard” and said the full name, it worked perfectly. Small details make a big difference!

Limitations and Workarounds

Limitation 1: No Multi-Camera View on Echo Show

As mentioned earlier, Alexa only supports single-camera views. This can be frustrating if you have multiple Arlo Pro 2 cameras and want to monitor several areas at once. For example, you can’t say, “Alexa, show all cameras,” and see a split screen like in the Arlo app.

Workaround: Use the Arlo app on a tablet or Fire tablet as a secondary display. Fire tablets run the same OS as Echo Show and can run the Arlo app in full-screen mode. Place it next to your Echo Show for a dual-monitor setup. Or, use Alexa routines to cycle through cameras. For example, set up a routine that says, “Alexa, check the perimeter,” which shows the front, then the back, then the garage—one after another.

Limitation 2: No Motion Alerts on Echo Show

When your Arlo Pro 2 detects motion, it sends a notification to your phone or email. But it won’t automatically display the camera on your Echo Show. You have to manually ask Alexa to show it.

Workaround: Create an Alexa Routine triggered by Arlo motion events. In the Alexa app:

  • Go to Routines > Create Routine
  • Under “When this happens,” choose “Device” and select your Arlo camera
  • Set the condition to “Motion Detected”
  • Under “Add action,” choose “Echo Show” and set it to “Show camera”
  • Save the routine

Now, when motion is detected, your Echo Show will automatically display the camera for 30 seconds. It’s not perfect—it only works if the camera is linked and the routine is enabled—but it’s better than nothing.

Limitation 3: Audio Delay in Two-Way Communication

When using two-way audio through the Echo Show, there can be a slight delay (1–2 seconds) between when you speak and when the camera plays your voice. This can make conversations feel awkward.

Workaround: Use the Arlo app for real-time communication. The app has better audio syncing because it’s designed specifically for the camera. Save the Echo Show for quick checks, not long conversations.

Comparison Table: Echo Show + Arlo Pro 2 vs. Other Smart Display + Camera Combos

To help you decide if this combo is right for you, here’s a quick comparison with other popular smart home setups:

Feature Echo Show + Arlo Pro 2 Google Nest Hub + Nest Cam Echo Show + Ring Spotlight Cam
Live View Yes (single camera) Yes (single camera) Yes (single camera)
Multi-Camera View No No No
Two-Way Audio Yes (slight delay) Yes (better sync) Yes (excellent sync)
Motion-Activated Display Yes (via Routines) Yes (native) Yes (native)
Setup Complexity Medium (cloud linking) Low (native integration) Low (native integration)
Local Storage Support Yes (Arlo base station) No (cloud only) Yes (microSD)
Voice Assistant Alexa Google Assistant Alexa

This table shows that while the Echo Show + Arlo Pro 2 combo isn’t the most seamless (due to third-party integration), it offers strong flexibility—especially with local storage and cross-platform compatibility. It’s ideal for users already invested in the Alexa ecosystem who want to keep their existing Arlo system.

Final Thoughts: Is the Integration Worth It?

After testing the Echo Show and Arlo Pro 2 together for several weeks—checking feeds during thunderstorms, monitoring deliveries, and scaring off stray cats—I can confidently say the integration works well enough for daily use. It’s not flawless, but the convenience outweighs the quirks.

The ability to say, “Alexa, show me the garage,” and instantly see who just pulled in is incredibly satisfying. It feels like living in the future. And for parents, pet owners, or frequent travelers, that peace of mind is priceless. You don’t need to constantly check your phone. Your Echo Show becomes a live security monitor, always ready at a moment’s notice.

That said, the setup isn’t plug-and-play. You need to understand cloud linking, troubleshoot connection issues, and accept limitations like single-camera views. If you’re not tech-savvy, it might feel frustrating at first. But once it’s running, it’s reliable and responsive.

My advice? Go for it—but be patient. Take your time with setup, use simple camera names, and don’t expect perfection. The combination of Alexa’s voice control and Arlo’s high-quality video makes for a powerful home security tool. It’s not just about compatibility; it’s about creating a smarter, safer home.

And if you’re already using Arlo Pro 2 cameras, connecting them to your Echo Show is a no-brainer. It’s a simple upgrade that adds significant value. After all, why rely on apps when you can just use your voice?

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Echo Show and Arlo Pro 2 camera compatible?

Yes, the Echo Show and Arlo Pro 2 camera are compatible through the Arlo skill for Alexa. This allows you to view live feeds, receive motion alerts, and control your camera using voice commands on your Echo Show device.

Can I use Alexa to view my Arlo Pro 2 camera on an Echo Show?

Absolutely! Once you enable the Arlo skill in the Alexa app and link your Arlo account, you can say, “Alexa, show me [camera name]” to stream live video from your Arlo Pro 2 directly on your Echo Show.

Do I need any extra hardware for Echo Show and Arlo Pro 2 compatibility?

No additional hardware is needed. As long as your Arlo Pro 2 is set up and connected to the Arlo app, you can integrate it with your Echo Show using Wi-Fi and the Arlo Alexa skill for seamless smart home monitoring.

Can I get motion alerts from my Arlo Pro 2 on my Echo Show?

Yes, when your Arlo Pro 2 detects motion, Alexa can announce the alert on your Echo Show and even display the live feed if configured. Just customize your notification settings in the Arlo and Alexa apps.

Is two-way audio supported between Echo Show and Arlo Pro 2?

No, two-way audio is not supported when using Echo Show with Arlo Pro 2. While you can view the live feed and hear audio from the camera, you cannot speak through the Arlo Pro 2 using the Echo Show.

Which Echo Show models work with the Arlo Pro 2 camera?

All Echo Show models (Echo Show 5, 8, 10, 15, etc.) are compatible with the Arlo Pro 2 camera, as long as they’re running the latest Alexa software and the Arlo skill is enabled in your Alexa app.