Can I Talk Through My Arlo Camera Here Is How It Works

Yes, you can talk through your Arlo camera using its built-in two-way audio feature, allowing real-time communication via the Arlo app. Simply press the microphone icon in the app to speak, whether you’re greeting a visitor or deterring an intruder—making your home security more interactive and effective.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can talk through compatible Arlo cameras using two-way audio.
• Use the Arlo app to access live audio and speak in real time.
• Check microphone settings to ensure clear communication and reduce background noise.
• Works remotely from anywhere with internet and the Arlo app installed.
• Ideal for monitoring pets, kids, or deterring visitors with your voice.

Can I Talk Through My Arlo Camera? Here’s How It Works

Picture this: You’re sipping your morning coffee when your phone buzzes—your Arlo camera just detected movement. You open the app and see a delivery person at your door. Instead of racing home or texting a neighbor, you simply press a button and say, “I’ll be right there—please leave the package by the garage.” No shouting, no confusion. Just a calm, clear voice from your camera, guiding the situation.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can I talk through my Arlo camera?”, the short answer is yes—but there’s more to it than you might expect. Not all Arlo models support two-way audio, and even those that do have nuances in performance, setup, and real-world use. Whether you’re a homeowner trying to deter porch pirates, a parent checking in on kids after school, or a pet lover wanting to calm your anxious pup, two-way audio can be a game-changer. But how well does it actually work? Let’s dive into the details, explore what’s possible, and share practical tips to get the most out of your Arlo system—no tech jargon, just honest, real-world insights.

Which Arlo Cameras Support Two-Way Audio?

Not every Arlo camera has the ability to talk through it. It’s important to know which models do—and which don’t—before assuming your setup supports voice communication.

Arlo Models with Two-Way Audio

• Arlo Pro 2 and Arlo Pro 3: These wired/wireless hybrid cameras include built-in speakers and microphones. You can talk and listen in real time.
• Arlo Pro 4 and Arlo Pro 5S: The newer Pro series models offer improved audio clarity and wider dynamic range. Great for clear conversations even in windy conditions.
• Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2: These premium cameras deliver studio-quality audio with noise cancellation. Perfect for crisp, clear voice communication.
• Arlo Essential Wired Video Doorbell: Yes, the doorbell has two-way talk! It’s one of the most popular uses—greeting visitors or instructing delivery drivers.
• Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell: Same great audio features, now with the freedom of wire-free installation.
• Arlo Go 2 (LTE): Ideal for remote locations, this cellular-connected camera also supports two-way audio, even when Wi-Fi isn’t available.

Arlo Models Without Two-Way Audio

• Original Arlo and Arlo Pro (1st gen): These older models only support listening, not talking. You can hear sounds, but you can’t speak through them.
• Arlo Baby: While it has excellent audio monitoring and lullabies, it lacks a speaker for outgoing voice. You can’t talk through it.
• Arlo Floodlight Cam (older models): Some early floodlight versions only support listening. Check your model number to confirm.

Pro Tip: Always check your camera’s product label or the Arlo app under “Device Info” to confirm two-way audio support. If the feature isn’t listed, it’s not available.

What About the Arlo Base Station?

Some users assume the base station (like the Arlo SmartHub or Arlo SmartHub 2) enables two-way talk. But no—the audio capability is built into the camera itself. The base station simply connects your cameras to your network. So if your camera doesn’t have a speaker, the base station won’t magically add one.

How to Use Two-Way Audio: A Step-by-Step Guide

Using two-way audio on your Arlo camera is surprisingly simple—once you know where to tap. Here’s how to get started, whether you’re using the app on your phone or tablet.

Step 1: Open the Arlo App

Make sure your Arlo app is updated to the latest version. Open it and log in. You should see your camera feeds on the home screen.

Step 2: Tap on the Camera Feed

Select the camera where you want to talk. For example, your front door camera. Tap the live view to open it full screen.

Step 3: Tap the “Talk” Button

Look for the microphone icon (usually in the bottom-right corner). Tap it. The app will ask for microphone permission if it’s your first time. Allow it.

Step 4: Speak Clearly

Once the button turns green or pulses, you’re live. Speak naturally—no need to shout. The camera will transmit your voice to the speaker on the device.

Step 5: Release to Stop

When you’re done, release the button. The audio stops immediately. You can now continue watching the live feed or exit the app.

Bonus: Use the “Listen” Feature First

Before you talk, tap the ear icon (next to the talk button) to listen to the environment. This helps you understand the situation. For example, you might hear a dog barking or a child calling for help. Then, decide if you need to speak.

Real-World Example: Talking to a Delivery Driver

Let’s say you’re at work and get a motion alert. You open the app and see a UPS driver holding a package. You tap “Listen” and hear, “Is someone home?” Then, you press and hold the “Talk” button and say, “Hi, I’m not home, but you can leave the package behind the planter on the left. Thanks!” The driver hears you clearly, nods, and places the package exactly where you said. Crisis averted—no missed deliveries, no stolen packages.

Tips for Better Two-Way Audio

• Speak at a normal volume: Shouting can distort the audio. The camera picks up your voice well even at conversational levels.
• Minimize background noise: If you’re in a loud environment (e.g., a coffee shop), try to move to a quieter spot. The app uses noise filtering, but it’s not perfect.
• Use headphones: If you’re in a noisy room, plug in earbuds. This reduces echo and improves clarity.
• Check your internet connection: A weak Wi-Fi signal can delay audio. Make sure your camera has at least 2–3 bars of signal strength.
• Test before relying on it: Try a mock conversation with a family member. See how clear the audio is from both sides.

What to Expect: Audio Quality and Limitations

Two-way audio on Arlo cameras is convenient, but it’s not perfect. Let’s talk about what works well—and where it falls short.

Strengths of Arlo’s Two-Way Audio

• Low latency: Most users report audio delays of 1–2 seconds. That’s fast enough for natural conversation.
• Good volume: The speaker is loud enough to be heard clearly at 10–15 feet, even outdoors.
• Noise reduction: Newer models (like Ultra 2 and Pro 5S) use AI to filter wind, rain, and background chatter.
• Echo cancellation: The camera detects and reduces audio feedback, so you don’t hear your own voice repeated.
• Works with multiple users: Multiple people can access the same camera feed and talk through it, as long as they’re logged into the same Arlo account.

Common Limitations and Challenges

• Wi-Fi dependency: Two-way audio requires a stable internet connection. If your Wi-Fi drops, you lose the ability to talk.
• One-way at a time: You can’t listen and talk simultaneously. When you press “Talk,” the “Listen” function pauses.
• No pre-recorded messages: Unlike some smart doorbells (e.g., Ring), Arlo doesn’t let you set custom voice messages (yet). You have to speak live every time.
• Audio quality varies by model: Older Pro models may sound muffled in windy conditions. The Ultra series is much better, but it’s also more expensive.
• No voice assistant integration for talking: You can’t say, “Hey Google, talk through the front door camera.” You have to use the Arlo app directly.

Real-World Scenario: Talking to a Noisy Neighbor

Imagine your neighbor’s dog keeps barking at night. You’ve asked them politely, but it keeps happening. One evening, you get a motion alert. You see the dog in your yard. You open the app, tap “Listen,” and hear the barking. Then, you press “Talk” and say, “Hi, I can see your dog in my yard. Can you please bring him in? He’s scaring my cat.” The neighbor looks up, sees the camera, and quickly calls the dog inside. The barking stops. No confrontation, no drama—just a calm, direct message delivered through your Arlo.

When Two-Way Audio Isn’t Enough

Sometimes, voice alone isn’t the best solution. For example:

• Emergency situations: If you see a break-in or medical emergency, call 911 immediately. Don’t rely on talking through the camera.
• Language barriers: If you’re communicating with someone who doesn’t speak your language, voice may not help. Consider using the camera’s spotlight or siren to signal attention.
• Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals: The camera’s audio is useless for someone who can’t hear. Pair it with visual alerts (like flashing lights) for inclusivity.

Smart Integrations: Using Two-Way Audio with Other Devices

One of the best things about Arlo is its ability to work with other smart home devices. You can enhance two-way audio by integrating it with lights, speakers, and voice assistants.

Arlo + Amazon Alexa

You can view Arlo camera feeds on Echo Show devices, but you can’t talk through the camera using Alexa. However, you can:

• Ask Alexa to show your camera feed on an Echo Show.
• Use Alexa to trigger routines—e.g., “Alexa, I’m leaving,” turns on all cameras and sends a notification.
• Pair Alexa with a smart speaker in the same room as the Arlo camera. When motion is detected, Alexa can play a chime, and you can then open the Arlo app to talk.

Arlo + Google Assistant

Similar to Alexa, Google Assistant can show camera feeds on Nest Hubs, but no voice-through functionality. However, you can:

• Set up routines—e.g., “Hey Google, good night” arms all cameras.
• Use Google Home app to receive motion alerts with custom sounds.
• Combine with a smart display to see who’s at the door before deciding to talk.

Arlo + Smart Lights and Alarms

Here’s a pro setup: When motion is detected, your Arlo camera triggers:

• Smart lights: Flash the porch light to get attention.
• Smart siren: Play a warning sound (e.g., “You are being recorded”).
• Then, use two-way audio: After the visual/auditory alert, you can calmly say, “Hi, I’m watching. Please leave.”

This layered approach is much more effective than just talking alone.

Arlo + Apple HomeKit (via Arlo Secure)

If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, Arlo works with HomeKit Secure Video. You can view feeds on your iPhone or HomePod, but again—no voice-through from Siri. You still need the Arlo app to talk.

Data Table: Arlo Camera Two-Way Audio Comparison

Camera Model	Two-Way Audio	Speaker Power (dB)	Noise Cancellation	Wi-Fi Required	Best For
Arlo Pro 3	Yes	85 dB	Basic	Yes	General outdoor use
Arlo Pro 4	Yes	88 dB	Enhanced	Yes	Front door, driveway
Arlo Ultra 2	Yes	90+ dB	AI-powered	Yes	High-traffic areas, windy locations
Arlo Essential Doorbell (Wired)	Yes	86 dB	Standard	Yes	Doorway communication
Arlo Go 2	Yes	82 dB	Basic	No (LTE)	Remote cabins, construction sites
Arlo Pro 2	Yes	84 dB	Basic	Yes	Budget-friendly two-way talk
Arlo Pro (1st gen)	No	N/A	N/A	Yes	Monitoring only (listen only)

Final Thoughts: Is Two-Way Audio Worth It?

So, can you talk through your Arlo camera? Absolutely—if you have the right model. Two-way audio isn’t just a cool feature; it’s a practical tool that can prevent package theft, improve neighborly communication, and give you peace of mind when you’re away.

But like any tech, it has its quirks. The audio isn’t always crystal clear in bad weather. You can’t leave pre-recorded messages. And you still need a good Wi-Fi connection. That said, the newer Arlo models—especially the Ultra and Pro 4/5S—have made huge strides in audio quality and reliability.

Think of two-way audio as a digital megaphone for your home. It’s not meant to replace face-to-face interaction, but it’s perfect for quick, clear communication when you’re not there. Whether you’re telling a delivery driver where to leave a package, calming a nervous pet, or politely asking a stranger to step off your porch, it works.

And here’s a final tip: Test it regularly. Don’t wait for an emergency to find out your audio is muffled or delayed. Do a monthly check—talk to a family member or even just say “Testing 1-2-3” to yourself. Make sure everything works.

At the end of the day, your Arlo camera is more than a security device. With two-way audio, it becomes a communication tool—one that brings you closer to your home, even when you’re miles away. So go ahead, press that talk button, and say hello to the future of home security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I talk through my Arlo camera using two-way audio?

Yes, most Arlo cameras (like the Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Essential series) have built-in two-way audio, allowing you to speak through the camera via the Arlo app. Simply tap the microphone icon in the live feed to start talking.

How do I enable the “talk through Arlo camera” feature?

Open the Arlo app, select your camera, and tap the microphone icon during a live view. Ensure your camera’s firmware is updated and microphone permissions are enabled in the app settings.

Why isn’t the two-way audio working on my Arlo camera?

Check your internet connection, ensure the camera is powered on, and verify that the microphone isn’t muted in the app. Also, confirm your model supports two-way audio (not all older models do).

Can I use my Arlo camera to talk to delivery drivers or visitors?

Absolutely! The two-way audio lets you communicate remotely with anyone near the camera, making it ideal for greeting visitors or giving instructions to delivery personnel.

Does talking through an Arlo camera use a lot of data?

Two-way audio uses minimal data, but streaming video while using it may increase consumption. For best results, use Wi-Fi instead of mobile data for extended conversations.

Are there any privacy concerns with using two-way audio on Arlo cameras?

Arlo encrypts audio transmissions for security, but always inform others they’re being recorded if required by local laws. Avoid using the feature in private areas without consent.