Can Arlo Cameras Link Directly to SmartThings A Complete Guide

Arlo cameras cannot link directly to SmartThings due to platform limitations, but integration is possible using third-party tools like IFTTT or a custom SmartThings Edge driver. This workaround enables automation and control within the SmartThings app, though real-time features may vary. Discover how to bridge the gap and unlock seamless smart home functionality.

Key Takeaways

• Direct linking isn’t natively supported: Arlo cameras don’t connect directly to SmartThings without workarounds.
• Use IFTTT for integration: Set up automated triggers between Arlo and SmartThings via IFTTT applets.
• SmartThings API enables control: Access Arlo feeds through custom SmartApps using the API.
• Check compatibility first: Confirm your Arlo model supports third-party integrations before setup.
• Local processing is limited: Most integrations rely on cloud-to-cloud connections, not local hubs.
• Prioritize security: Review permissions when linking accounts to protect your camera data.

Can Arlo Cameras Link Directly to SmartThings? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: you’re halfway to work when a sudden thought hits you—did I lock the back door? Instead of turning the car around, you pull out your phone, open an app, and instantly see your front porch through a live feed. That’s the magic of smart home security, and for many, it’s no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Arlo cameras are some of the most popular options out there, offering crisp video, smart alerts, and sleek designs. But what if you’re already invested in the SmartThings ecosystem, Samsung’s powerful home automation platform? Can Arlo cameras link directly to SmartThings and play nicely with your lights, locks, and sensors?

If you’ve ever tried to connect different smart devices from various brands, you know it’s not always smooth sailing. Some pair up effortlessly, while others feel like you’re trying to translate between two languages that barely overlap. The question “Can Arlo cameras link directly to SmartThings?” is one we hear often—and for good reason. You want seamless integration, not a clunky workaround that breaks every other week. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: whether direct integration exists, how to make it work, what the limitations are, and how to get the most out of both platforms—without pulling your hair out.

Understanding Arlo and SmartThings: Two Smart Giants

What Makes Arlo Cameras Stand Out?

Arlo, owned by Netgear, has built a reputation for high-quality, easy-to-install security cameras. Whether you’re using the Arlo Pro, Arlo Ultra, or the budget-friendly Arlo Essential, these cameras offer features like:

• 1080p or 4K video resolution
• Night vision (color or infrared)
• Motion detection with AI-powered person, package, and animal alerts
• Two-way audio
• Wire-free and weather-resistant designs
• Cloud storage and local backup options

Arlo cameras are designed to work best within their own ecosystem—the Arlo app. This app is where you manage recordings, adjust sensitivity, set activity zones, and view live feeds. But what happens when you want these cameras to talk to other smart devices, like turning on your Philips Hue lights when motion is detected? That’s where SmartThings comes in.

SmartThings: The Hub of Your Smart Home

SmartThings, originally developed by a startup and now owned by Samsung, is one of the most versatile home automation platforms available. It acts as a central hub that connects devices from hundreds of brands—Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, Matter, and more. Whether you have smart plugs, door locks, thermostats, or sensors, chances are SmartThings can control them.

The SmartThings app (and the newer SmartThings Home Monitor) lets you:

• Create automation routines (“If motion is detected, turn on the porch light”)
• Group devices into rooms or zones
• Use voice commands via Google Assistant, Alexa, or Bixby
• Monitor your home remotely
• Integrate with other services like IFTTT or Webhooks

So, you’ve got a great camera system and a powerful automation platform. The big question remains: can they work together without a middleman?

Can Arlo Cameras Link Directly to SmartThings?

The Short Answer: Not Natively—But There Are Workarounds

Let’s cut to the chase: Arlo cameras do not have a direct, native integration with SmartThings as of 2024. Unlike brands like Ring, Nest, or even some Aqara sensors, Arlo hasn’t built a SmartThings-compatible driver or API that allows for plug-and-play connectivity.

This means you can’t just open the SmartThings app, hit “Add Device,” and see your Arlo camera pop up like a Samsung sensor or a TP-Link plug. That’s a bummer—especially if you were hoping for a seamless, out-of-the-box experience.

But before you throw in the towel, know this: indirect integration is very much possible. And with a little setup, you can get your Arlo cameras to trigger SmartThings routines, show live feeds in SmartThings, and even control other devices based on camera events.

Why Doesn’t Arlo Have Native SmartThings Support?

There are a few likely reasons:

• Proprietary Ecosystem: Arlo wants you to use its app and services (like Arlo Secure for cloud storage). Opening up to third-party platforms could dilute that control.
• Technical Limitations: Arlo uses a cloud-based architecture. Unlike Zigbee or Z-Wave devices that communicate directly with a hub, Arlo cameras connect to the cloud first. SmartThings, especially the older Classic app, was designed for local device control.
• Business Strategy: Arlo has its own automation features (e.g., Arlo Smart Home, which works with Alexa, Google, and IFTTT). They may not see SmartThings as a priority.

So while it’s not impossible, it’s not the default path either. But don’t worry—we’ll show you how to bridge the gap.

How to Connect Arlo Cameras to SmartThings (Step-by-Step)

Method 1: Using IFTTT (If This, Then That)

The most popular and user-friendly way to connect Arlo to SmartThings is through IFTTT (If This, Then That), a free automation service that links apps and devices. Think of it as a translator between two languages.

Here’s how it works:

1. Create an IFTTT Account (if you don’t have one). It’s free and takes two minutes.
2. Go to ifttt.com and log in.
3. Click “Create” to make a new Applet.
4. Set the Trigger: Choose “Arlo” as the service, then select an event like “Motion is detected” or “Person is detected.”
5. Set the Action: Choose “SmartThings” as the service, then pick an action like “Turn on a light” or “Send a notification.”
6. Connect your Arlo and SmartThings accounts when prompted.
7. Name your Applet and activate it.

Example: You set up an Applet that says: “If Arlo detects motion at the front door, then turn on the porch light in SmartThings.” Now, when someone approaches, your lights come on automatically—no app switching needed.

Pros:

• Easy to set up, even for beginners
• Free for basic use (limited to 3 Applets)
• Works with many Arlo models

Cons:

• Delays (can be 10–30 seconds due to cloud processing)
• Not real-time; relies on internet connectivity
• No video feed in SmartThings (only triggers)

Method 2: SmartThings WebCore (Advanced Users)

If you’re comfortable with a bit more technical setup, WebCore (Web CoRE) is a powerful automation engine for SmartThings. It allows for complex logic, timing, and even direct API calls.

Here’s how you can use WebCore with Arlo:

1. Install the WebCore SmartApp from the SmartThings Community (it’s not in the official store).
2. Use an Arlo API wrapper (like a Node.js script or a third-party service) to pull motion data from Arlo’s cloud.
3. Set up a webhook or REST API call from Arlo to WebCore.
4. Create a WebCore piston (automation) that triggers when Arlo sends an alert.

Example: Your Arlo camera detects a person at 10 PM. It sends a webhook to WebCore, which then turns on the hallway lights, locks the back door, and sends you a custom notification—all within seconds.

Pros:

Near real-time response

Highly customizable

Can integrate with other services (e.g., send an SMS or log data)

Cons:

Steep learning curve

Requires technical knowledge (APIs, webhooks, JSON)

Not officially supported; may break with updates

Method 3: Using a Third-Party Integration Platform (e.g., Node-RED)

For power users, Node-RED is a visual programming tool that runs on a Raspberry Pi or home server. It can connect to both Arlo and SmartThings via APIs and create complex automations.

You’d set up:

• A Node-RED flow that listens for Arlo motion events
• Triggers a SmartThings command (via SmartThings API or Webhooks)
• Logs data, sends emails, or even integrates with Home Assistant

Tip: Use the node-red-contrib-arlo and node-red-contrib-smartthings nodes for easier setup.

This method is ideal if you already have a home server or are building a DIY smart home hub.

What You Can (and Can’t) Do When Linking Arlo to SmartThings

What You *Can* Do

Once you’ve set up the integration (via IFTTT or another method), here are some practical things you can automate:

• Turn on lights when Arlo detects motion (great for security and convenience)
• Send notifications to your phone or SmartThings app when someone is at the door
• Trigger a siren or alarm if motion is detected at night
• Record video automatically (if your SmartThings hub supports it)
• Arm/disarm your security system based on camera activity
• Log events in a spreadsheet or home monitoring dashboard

Real-Life Example: Sarah, a homeowner in Seattle, uses Arlo cameras and SmartThings. She set up an IFTTT Applet that turns on her living room lamp when the backyard camera detects motion after 8 PM. Her kids love it—no more fumbling for the light switch at night.

What You *Can’t* Do (Limitations)

Despite the workarounds, there are some hard limits:

• No live video feed in SmartThings: You can’t view Arlo’s live stream inside the SmartThings app. You’ll still need the Arlo app for that.
• No two-way audio in SmartThings: You can’t talk through the camera from the SmartThings interface.
• No direct camera controls: You can’t start/stop recording, adjust motion sensitivity, or change settings from SmartThings.
• Delays in automation: Cloud-to-cloud integrations (like IFTTT) aren’t instant. You might see a 10–30 second lag.
• No local processing: Everything goes through the cloud, which means it won’t work if your internet is down.

These limitations mean that while you can react to Arlo events in SmartThings, you can’t fully replace the Arlo app. Think of SmartThings as an extension, not a replacement.

Tips for a Smarter, More Reliable Integration

Optimize Your Network for Speed

Since both Arlo and SmartThings rely on the cloud, a slow or unstable internet connection can ruin your experience. Here’s how to improve it:

• Use a 5 GHz Wi-Fi band for Arlo cameras (if supported) to reduce interference.
• Place your Arlo base station or cameras close to your router or use Wi-Fi extenders.
• Ensure your router supports QoS (Quality of Service) to prioritize camera traffic.
• Use a wired Ethernet connection for your SmartThings hub (if possible) for more reliable automation.

Use Arlo’s AI Features to Reduce False Alarms

Nothing’s worse than your porch light turning on because a squirrel ran past. Use Arlo’s smart alerts to filter out non-human motion:

• Enable “Person Detection” in the Arlo app
• Set up activity zones (e.g., only trigger on the driveway, not the sidewalk)
• Adjust sensitivity so pets or leaves don’t set off alerts

This way, your SmartThings routines will only fire when it matters.

Test and Monitor Your Automations

Set up a few test scenarios:

• Wave at your camera and see if the light turns on within 30 seconds
• Check if notifications arrive on your phone
• Use SmartThings’ “History” tab to see if triggers were logged

If something fails, check:

• IFTTT or WebCore logs
• Arlo’s motion detection settings
• Internet connectivity and app permissions

Consider a Hybrid Setup

Some users run both Arlo and a SmartThings-compatible camera (like a Samsung SmartCam or Aqara) side by side. Use Arlo for outdoor security and the SmartThings camera for indoor monitoring with native automation. It’s not ideal, but it gives you the best of both worlds.

Comparison Table: Arlo + SmartThings vs. Other Integrations

Integration Method	Setup Difficulty	Speed	Reliability	Live Video in SmartThings?	Best For
IFTTT	Easy	10–30 sec	Medium	No	Beginners, simple automations
WebCore	Hard	5–15 sec	High	No	Advanced users, custom logic
Node-RED	Hard	1–5 sec	High	No	Tech-savvy DIYers, home servers
Native SmartThings Camera	Easy	Instant	High	Yes	Seamless, full-featured control
Arlo + Alexa Routine	Easy	10–20 sec	Medium	No	Voice control, multi-platform homes

This table shows that while Arlo doesn’t integrate as smoothly as native SmartThings devices, the trade-offs can be worth it for the video quality and features Arlo offers.

Final Thoughts: Should You Link Arlo to SmartThings?

So, can Arlo cameras link directly to SmartThings? Not directly—but with a little effort, you can make them work together beautifully. Whether you’re using IFTTT for simple automations, WebCore for advanced logic, or Node-RED for full control, there’s a path that fits your skill level and needs.

The key is to set realistic expectations. You won’t get a seamless, plug-and-play experience like with native devices. But you will gain the ability to turn your Arlo cameras into powerful triggers for your entire smart home. Imagine your lights turning on when someone approaches, your thermostat adjusting when you come home, or your alarm arming when you leave—all orchestrated by a camera that sees what you can’t.

And while Arlo may not support SmartThings natively today, the smart home landscape is always evolving. With the rise of Matter and open standards, we may see better cross-platform support in the future. Until then, the workarounds we’ve covered give you the flexibility to build the smart home you want—without being locked into a single brand.

So go ahead: set up that IFTTT Applet, experiment with WebCore, or dive into Node-RED. Your Arlo cameras and SmartThings hub are waiting to team up. And who knows? The next time you’re halfway to work, you might not need to turn back—because your smart home already has your back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Arlo cameras link directly to SmartThings without a hub?

No, Arlo cameras cannot link directly to SmartThings without a compatible hub or bridge. While both platforms support IFTTT and some cloud-to-cloud integrations, a direct connection typically requires the Arlo SmartHub or base station to enable full functionality within the SmartThings ecosystem.

How do I connect my Arlo cameras to SmartThings?

To connect Arlo cameras to SmartThings, use the SmartThings app to add Arlo as a “Works with SmartThings” device via cloud-to-cloud integration. Alternatively, use IFTTT applets to link triggers and actions between Arlo and SmartThings for limited automation.

Does the Arlo and SmartThings integration support live viewing and alerts?

Yes, once connected via SmartThings or IFTTT, you can view live streams from Arlo cameras in the SmartThings app and receive motion alerts on your phone. However, advanced features like person detection may require the Arlo app to remain active.

Are all Arlo camera models compatible with SmartThings?

Most newer Arlo models (e.g., Arlo Pro 4, Ultra, Essential) work with SmartThings via cloud integration, but older models may require the Arlo SmartHub. Always check the official Arlo and SmartThings compatibility lists before purchasing.

Can I use Arlo cameras with SmartThings for automations?

Yes, you can use Arlo cameras with SmartThings automations through IFTTT or direct integration. For example, set lights to turn on when Arlo detects motion, though some complex automations may require additional SmartThings-compatible devices.

Why won’t my Arlo cameras connect to SmartThings?

Connection issues often stem from outdated firmware, incorrect login credentials, or unsupported Arlo models. Ensure both your Arlo and SmartThings apps are updated, and verify compatibility. Restarting both apps and your router can also resolve syncing problems.