Can Arlo Camera Work With SmartThings Hub A Complete Guide

Yes, Arlo cameras can work with the SmartThings Hub, but only through limited integration via the SmartThings app using custom edge drivers or IFTTT—there’s no native support. This workaround enables basic automation and control, though advanced features like live viewing or two-way audio may not function seamlessly.

Key Takeaways

• Direct integration is limited: Arlo cameras don’t natively support SmartThings Hub without workarounds.
• Use IFTTT for connectivity: Bridge Arlo and SmartThings via IFTTT for basic automation tasks.
• Enable remote access: SmartThings can view Arlo feeds using custom solutions or community integrations.
• Check firmware updates: Always update both devices to ensure compatibility with new features.
• Manual setup required: Expect complex configuration for full functionality between platforms.
• Prioritize security: Use strong passwords and 2FA when linking third-party services.

Can Arlo Camera Work With SmartThings Hub? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: You’re sitting on your couch, sipping a cup of tea, and you want to check who just rang your doorbell. You open your phone, tap a single app, and there it is—your Arlo camera feed, right alongside your lights, thermostat, and other smart devices. Sounds like the dream, right? But can Arlo cameras actually work with the SmartThings hub? That’s the million-dollar question, and I’m here to help you figure it out—no tech degree required.

As someone who’s tried (and sometimes failed) to connect various smart home gadgets, I know how frustrating it can be when devices just don’t play nice together. I’ve spent countless evenings trying to get my Arlo cameras to show up in SmartThings, only to end up Googling things like “why is my camera not connecting” at 11 p.m. If you’ve ever felt that pain, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll explore whether Arlo cameras and SmartThings can truly coexist, how to set them up if they can, and what limitations you might face along the way. Whether you’re a smart home newbie or a seasoned tinkerer, this guide will walk you through every step—with real-world examples, practical tips, and honest insights.

Understanding Arlo Cameras and SmartThings: The Basics

What Are Arlo Cameras?

Arlo cameras are a popular brand of wireless, Wi-Fi-based security cameras made by Netgear. They come in several models—from indoor cams like the Arlo Essential Indoor to outdoor weatherproof models like the Arlo Pro 4 and Arlo Ultra 2. Most Arlo cameras offer features like 1080p or 4K video, night vision, motion detection, two-way audio, and cloud or local storage options (with an Arlo SmartHub or base station).

One of the big draws of Arlo is its sleek design and easy setup via the Arlo app. But here’s the catch: Arlo doesn’t natively support integration with every smart home platform. While they work seamlessly with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit (in some models), their compatibility with Samsung’s SmartThings hub is a bit more nuanced.

What Is the SmartThings Hub?

The SmartThings hub is Samsung’s flagship smart home controller. It acts as a central brain, connecting devices using multiple protocols like Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, and Thread. With SmartThings, you can automate lights, locks, thermostats, sensors, and more—all from one app.

SmartThings shines when it comes to interoperability. It supports thousands of devices from brands like Philips Hue, Yale, Ecobee, and Ring. But here’s the thing: not every device is plug-and-play. Some require workarounds, custom integrations, or third-party tools. And that’s where Arlo enters the picture.

How Do These Systems Normally Work?

Arlo cameras typically connect directly to your home Wi-Fi (or via a base station) and are managed through the Arlo app. SmartThings, on the other hand, uses a hub to communicate with devices over local networks. The key challenge? Arlo doesn’t officially support SmartThings as a direct integration partner. That means you won’t find an “Arlo” option when adding new devices in the SmartThings app.

But don’t throw in the towel just yet. There are still ways to bridge the gap—some easier than others. Let’s explore those options in the next section.

Direct Integration: Is There an Official Arlo + SmartThings Connection?

The Official Stance: No Native Support

Let’s cut to the chase: There is no official, direct integration between Arlo cameras and the SmartThings hub. If you open the SmartThings app and go to “Add a Device,” you won’t see Arlo in the list of supported brands. This isn’t a bug—it’s by design.

Why? Arlo has its own ecosystem and cloud infrastructure. To integrate with SmartThings, Arlo would need to provide an API (application programming interface) that SmartThings could use to pull video feeds, trigger recordings, or send motion alerts. As of now, that hasn’t happened. Arlo focuses its integrations on voice assistants and major platforms like Alexa and Google, which have broader user bases.

So if you’re hoping to control your Arlo camera directly from SmartThings—like turning it on/off, viewing live video, or getting alerts—it won’t work out of the box. You can’t use SmartThings automations to trigger Arlo actions (e.g., “When motion is detected, start recording”) unless you use a workaround.

Why Doesn’t Arlo Support SmartThings?

This is a fair question—and one I asked myself after spending an hour trying to force a connection. The likely reasons include:

• Market priorities: Arlo’s main focus is on consumer-friendly, plug-and-play setups with voice assistants. SmartThings users are often more technical, so Arlo may not see it as a priority.
• Cloud vs. local control: Arlo relies heavily on cloud processing for motion detection, alerts, and video storage. SmartThings, especially newer versions, leans toward local processing for faster response and privacy. These different architectures make integration tricky.
• Licensing and partnerships: Integrating with SmartThings requires formal agreements, API access, and ongoing maintenance. Arlo may not want to invest in that unless demand is high enough.

That said, Arlo does support indirect connections through IFTTT and webhooks (more on that later). But for now, direct control? Not happening.

A Real-World Example: What You Can’t Do

Let’s say you have an Arlo Pro 4 at your front door and a SmartThings hub managing your lights. You’d love it if, when motion was detected, the porch light turned on and your phone got a SmartThings alert. Unfortunately, without a bridge, this won’t work.

You can’t:

• View Arlo camera feeds in the SmartThings app
• Use Arlo motion events to trigger SmartThings automations
• Control Arlo settings (like night vision) from SmartThings

But—and this is a big but—you can get close. Let’s look at the workarounds.

Workaround #1: Using IFTTT to Connect Arlo and SmartThings

What Is IFTTT?

IFTTT stands for “If This, Then That.” It’s a free automation platform that lets you connect different apps and devices using simple applets. Think of it as a translator between services that don’t speak the same language.

Both Arlo and SmartThings have official IFTTT integrations. That means you can use IFTTT to create automations between them—even if they don’t connect directly.

Step-by-Step: Setting Up IFTTT with Arlo and SmartThings

Here’s how to set it up:

1. Create an IFTTT account at ifttt.com (it’s free).
2. Connect your Arlo account in IFTTT. Go to “Services,” search for “Arlo,” and log in.
3. Connect your SmartThings account the same way. Search for “SmartThings” and authorize access.
4. Create a new applet:
   • Click “Create” → “If This” → Choose “Arlo” → Select trigger (e.g., “Motion detected”).
   • Click “Then That” → Choose “SmartThings” → Select action (e.g., “Turn on light” or “Send notification”).
   • Customize the details (which camera, which light, etc.) and save.

Now, when your Arlo camera detects motion, IFTTT will tell SmartThings to turn on a light or send you a push notification—all without direct integration.

Practical Example: Motion-Activated Porch Light

Let’s say you have an Arlo Pro 4 at your front door and a SmartThings-connected porch light (like a Philips Hue bulb). You want the light to turn on when someone walks by at night.

• Create an IFTTT applet with:
  • This: Arlo → “Motion detected” (choose your camera)
  • That: SmartThings → “Turn on device” (select your porch light)
• Set a time restriction (e.g., only between 6 PM and 6 AM) to avoid false triggers during the day.

This works great! The only downside? There’s a slight delay (usually 3–10 seconds) because the signal has to go from Arlo → IFTTT → SmartThings → your light. It’s not instant, but it’s reliable.

Limitations of IFTTT

While IFTTT is a lifesaver, it’s not perfect. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Latency: As mentioned, there’s a delay. Not ideal for real-time security.
• Reliability: IFTTT can occasionally fail to trigger, especially during high-traffic times.
• Limited actions: You can’t stream video or control camera settings via IFTTT.
• Free plan limits: The free tier allows 20 applets and 15-minute check intervals. For heavy users, a paid plan ($5/month) is better.

Still, for basic automations, IFTTT is your best bet for connecting Arlo and SmartThings.

Workaround #2: Using Webhooks and SmartApps (Advanced)

What Are Webhooks and SmartApps?

If you’re comfortable with a little tech tinkering, you can go deeper using webhooks (HTTP requests sent between services) and SmartApps (custom automations written for SmartThings).

Arlo can send webhooks when motion is detected. You can configure these to trigger a custom SmartApp or a Node.js script that communicates with your SmartThings hub via the SmartThings API.

How to Set Up Webhooks with Arlo

1. Set up a webhook endpoint: Use a service like webhook.site or a self-hosted server (e.g., using Node-RED or a Raspberry Pi).
2. Configure Arlo to send webhooks: In the Arlo app, go to Settings → Rules → Create a rule (e.g., “Motion detected”) → Under “Notify,” choose “Webhook” and enter your URL.
3. Process the webhook: When Arlo detects motion, it sends a POST request to your endpoint. Your script can then:
   • Send a command to SmartThings via the API (e.g., turn on a light)
   • Send a push notification through Pushover or Telegram
   • Log the event to a database

Example: Node-RED + SmartThings Integration

Here’s a real-world setup I used:

• Hosted a Node-RED instance on a Raspberry Pi.
• Created an HTTP endpoint to receive Arlo webhooks.
• Used the SmartThings REST API to turn on a light when motion was detected.
• Added a filter to only trigger between 8 PM and 6 AM.

The result? A fully automated, low-latency system that worked faster than IFTTT. But it required coding skills, a server, and patience.

Pros and Cons of Webhook Method

Pros	Cons
Low latency (near real-time)	Requires technical knowledge
Highly customizable	Needs a server or cloud service
No third-party dependencies (after setup)	Arlo webhook setup isn’t intuitive
Can trigger multiple actions	Not beginner-friendly

This method is ideal for tech-savvy users who want full control. If you’re not into coding, stick with IFTTT.

Alternative Solutions and Best Practices

Use Both Apps Side-by-Side

The simplest solution? Don’t force integration. Use the Arlo app for camera management and the SmartThings app for everything else. Many users run both apps on the same phone without issues.

You can still get alerts from both systems. For example:

• Arlo sends motion alerts via push notifications.
• SmartThings handles automations (lights, locks, etc.).

This “split-brain” approach works surprisingly well—and avoids the headache of complex integrations.

Leverage Voice Assistants as a Bridge

Both Arlo and SmartThings work with Alexa and Google Assistant. You can use voice commands to bridge the gap:

• “Alexa, show me the front door camera” → Arlo feed appears on an Echo Show.
• “Alexa, turn on the porch light when motion is detected” → Use Alexa Routines to link Arlo motion to SmartThings devices.

Alexa Routines can trigger SmartThings actions based on Arlo events—effectively creating a smart home bridge without coding.

Best Practices for a Smooth Experience

Here are some tips to make your Arlo + SmartThings setup as smooth as possible:

• Keep both apps updated: Arlo and SmartThings release updates that improve compatibility and fix bugs.
• Use strong Wi-Fi: Arlo cameras need a stable connection. Place your router close to the base station or use Wi-Fi extenders.
• Test automations during the day: Don’t wait until 2 a.m. to realize your IFTTT applet isn’t working.
• Use time filters: Prevent false triggers (e.g., don’t turn on lights when motion is detected during the day).
• Label devices clearly: In both apps, name your Arlo cameras and SmartThings devices so you don’t get confused.

When to Consider a Different Camera

If seamless SmartThings integration is a must-have, you might want to consider alternatives:

• Ring cameras: Officially supported by SmartThings (via Ring integration).
• Eufy cameras: Some models support local storage and work with Home Assistant, which can connect to SmartThings.
• Wyze cameras: Budget-friendly and work with IFTTT, though not officially supported.

But if you love your Arlo cameras (and I do), the workarounds are worth it.

Conclusion: Can Arlo Cameras Work With SmartThings? Yes—With a Little Effort

So, can Arlo cameras work with the SmartThings hub? The short answer is: not directly, but yes, with workarounds. There’s no official integration, but tools like IFTTT, webhooks, and voice assistants let you bridge the gap and create a cohesive smart home experience.

For most users, IFTTT is the best starting point. It’s free, easy to set up, and handles basic automations like turning on lights or sending alerts. If you need faster response times or more control, the webhook method (via Node-RED or a similar tool) is powerful—but not for beginners.

And remember: sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. Running the Arlo and SmartThings apps side-by-side, using voice assistants as a bridge, or accepting a small delay in automations can be perfectly fine for everyday use.

The smart home journey isn’t about having every device talk to every other device. It’s about finding what works for you—your lifestyle, your tech comfort level, and your goals. Whether you’re using Arlo for security, SmartThings for automation, or both, there’s a path forward.

So go ahead—try IFTTT, experiment with webhooks, or just enjoy both apps. Your smart home doesn’t have to be perfect to be amazing. And who knows? Maybe one day, Arlo and SmartThings will officially join forces. Until then, you’ve got this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo cameras work with the SmartThings hub?

Yes, most Arlo cameras (like Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Essential series) can integrate with the SmartThings hub via the SmartThings app or IFTTT. This allows you to control and monitor your Arlo devices alongside other smart home gadgets in one ecosystem.

How do I connect my Arlo camera to the SmartThings hub?

To connect your Arlo camera to SmartThings, use the SmartThings app to add Arlo as a “Thing” or set up an IFTTT applet for automation. Ensure both devices are on the same network and follow the in-app instructions for seamless pairing.

Does SmartThings support all Arlo camera models?

Most modern Arlo cameras, including Pro 3, Ultra, and battery-powered models, are compatible with SmartThings. However, older or base-station-dependent models may have limited functionality—check Arlo’s official compatibility list for details.

Can I use Arlo cameras with SmartThings for home automation?

Yes! Once connected, you can create automations (e.g., turning on lights when Arlo detects motion) using SmartThings routines or IFTTT. This enhances security and convenience by syncing Arlo with other smart devices like locks or lights.

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

This could be due to network issues, outdated firmware, or compatibility limitations. Try re-adding the camera, restarting the SmartThings hub, or updating both the app and Arlo firmware to resolve the issue.

Do Arlo cameras on SmartThings require a subscription?

Basic functionality (live view, motion alerts) works without a subscription, but cloud storage and advanced features (like AI detection) require an Arlo Secure plan. SmartThings integration itself doesn’t need a subscription.