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If your Arlo Pro 2 camera isn’t playing audio, the most common culprit is a disabled microphone setting—double-check it’s turned on in the app. Ensure the camera’s firmware is up to date and that no physical obstructions are blocking the mic port. For persistent issues, a quick reboot or factory reset often restores sound functionality.
Key Takeaways
- Check volume settings: Ensure your device and Arlo app volumes are turned up.
- Verify mute status: Confirm the camera isn’t muted in the Arlo app settings.
- Update firmware: Install the latest camera and app updates to fix audio bugs.
- Test microphone: Use the app’s audio test feature to check mic functionality.
- Inspect network connection: Weak Wi-Fi can disrupt audio; move closer to the router.
- Restart devices: Power cycle the camera and your mobile device to resolve glitches.
📑 Table of Contents
- Why Your Arlo Pro 2 Camera Might Not Be Picking Up Sound
- Understanding How the Arlo Pro 2 Microphone Works
- Software and Settings Fixes for Audio Issues
- Hardware Checks: Microphone, Cables, and Power
- Advanced Troubleshooting: Network, App, and Account Issues
- When to Contact Arlo Support or Consider Replacements
- Final Thoughts: Patience and Persistence Pay Off
Why Your Arlo Pro 2 Camera Might Not Be Picking Up Sound
Imagine this: You’re away from home, checking in on your Arlo Pro 2 camera to see your dog playing in the yard. Everything looks fine—until you realize you can’t hear the familiar sound of their happy barks. Or worse, you’re trying to monitor a conversation outside your front door, but all you get is silence. Sound issues with your Arlo Pro 2 can be frustrating, especially when you rely on the camera for security and peace of mind. You’re not alone—many users have faced this problem, and it’s often fixable with a few troubleshooting steps.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most common reasons why you can’t hear from your Arlo Pro 2 camera and how to solve them. Whether it’s a settings glitch, a hardware issue, or something as simple as a blocked microphone, we’ll cover it all. Think of this as a friendly conversation over coffee, where I share what I’ve learned from my own struggles and research. No jargon, no fluff—just practical advice to get your camera’s audio back up and running.
Understanding How the Arlo Pro 2 Microphone Works
Before we dive into fixes, let’s take a moment to understand how the Arlo Pro 2’s microphone works. This camera is designed with a built-in mic to capture audio alongside video, but like any tech, it’s not foolproof. The mic is sensitive to placement, interference, and environmental factors. Knowing how it operates will help you pinpoint the issue faster.
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The Basics of Arlo Pro 2 Audio
The Arlo Pro 2 records audio in real-time, syncing it with video clips. The mic is located near the camera lens (check your manual for the exact spot). It’s designed to pick up sounds within a 10-15 foot range, but this can vary based on background noise and obstacles. For example, if your camera is mounted behind glass or a screen door, the sound may be muffled or blocked entirely.
- Example: A user once complained their Arlo Pro 2 couldn’t hear their kids playing in the backyard. Turns out, the camera was installed behind a double-pane window. The glass was blocking the sound waves.
- Tip: Test the mic by speaking directly toward the camera from a few feet away. If it works, the issue might be distance or placement.
Common Environmental Interference
Wind, rain, and even nearby electronics can interfere with the mic. Wind is a big culprit—it can create a constant whooshing sound or drown out voices. Similarly, placing the camera too close to a speaker, TV, or HVAC system can cause distortion or feedback.
- Example: Another user noticed their Arlo Pro 2 audio was full of static. After checking, they realized the camera was mounted near a buzzing transformer box. Moving it a few feet away fixed the issue.
- Tip: If you’re in a noisy area, try enabling the camera’s noise reduction feature (if available in your app settings).
Software and Settings Fixes for Audio Issues
Sometimes, the problem isn’t the hardware—it’s the software. A quick tweak in your Arlo app or account settings can restore sound without needing tools or technical know-how.
Visual guide about can’t hear from my arlo pro 2 camera
Image source: downloads.arlo.com
Check Audio Recording Settings
The first thing to verify is whether audio recording is enabled in your camera settings. It’s easy to accidentally turn it off, especially after a firmware update.
- Open the Arlo app and select your camera.
- Go to Settings > Audio and ensure “Record Audio” is toggled on.
- If it’s already on, try toggling it off, waiting 10 seconds, and turning it back on.
Real-life scenario: A friend once spent hours troubleshooting their Arlo Pro 2 audio, only to discover the setting had been disabled during a routine update. A simple toggle fixed it!
Update Firmware and App
Outdated firmware can cause audio glitches. Arlo regularly releases updates to improve performance and fix bugs.
- In the Arlo app, go to Settings > My Devices > Device Info to check for updates.
- Ensure your smartphone’s Arlo app is updated too. An old app version might not support the latest camera features.
Tip: Set your camera to auto-update (if available) to avoid missing critical patches.
Test in Different Modes
The Arlo Pro 2 has different recording modes (e.g., live view, motion alerts, continuous recording). Sometimes, audio works in one mode but not another.
- Try streaming live video to see if sound works there.
- If live audio is fine but recorded clips are silent, the issue might be with the SD card (if you’re using local storage).
Hardware Checks: Microphone, Cables, and Power
If software fixes don’t work, let’s dig into the physical setup. The Arlo Pro 2’s mic is durable, but it’s not immune to wear, damage, or installation errors.
Inspect the Microphone
The mic is a small hole near the lens—check if it’s blocked by dirt, dust, or debris. Even a tiny obstruction can muffle sound.
- Use a soft brush or compressed air to gently clean the mic hole.
- Avoid using liquids or sharp objects (e.g., needles), as this can damage the mic.
Example: A user noticed their Arlo Pro 2 audio was muffled. They wiped the camera lens but forgot the mic. A quick clean with a microfiber cloth restored clarity.
Check Power and Connectivity
The Arlo Pro 2 relies on a steady power supply (either battery or wired). Low battery or unstable power can affect audio performance.
- If using batteries, replace them if they’re below 20%.
- For wired setups, ensure the power adapter is securely plugged in.
- Test with a different outlet or cable to rule out power issues.
Pro tip: A friend’s Arlo Pro 2 audio would cut out randomly. They discovered the battery was loose in its compartment—tightening it fixed the problem.
Reboot the Camera and Base Station
A classic “turn it off and on again” fix often works. Rebooting can clear temporary glitches affecting the mic.
- For battery-powered cameras: Remove the battery, wait 30 seconds, then reinsert.
- For wired setups: Unplug the power, wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
- Also reboot the base station (if you have one) by unplugging it for 30 seconds.
Advanced Troubleshooting: Network, App, and Account Issues
Sometimes, the root cause isn’t the camera itself but your network or account setup. Let’s explore deeper fixes.
Network Bandwidth and Wi-Fi Strength
Weak Wi-Fi can cause audio lag or dropouts. The Arlo Pro 2 needs a stable connection to stream audio and video smoothly.
- Check your Wi-Fi signal strength near the camera. If it’s weak, move the router closer or add a Wi-Fi extender.
- Use the Arlo app’s Signal Strength tool (under camera settings) to test connectivity.
Real-world fix: A user’s Arlo Pro 2 audio would cut out every time their neighbor’s microwave was on. The interference was disrupting their 2.4GHz Wi-Fi. Switching to a 5GHz network solved it.
App Permissions and Device Conflicts
If you’re using multiple devices (e.g., phone, tablet) to access your Arlo app, audio might work on one but not another.
- Check app permissions on your device. Ensure the Arlo app has access to microphone and storage.
- Log out of the Arlo app on other devices to rule out conflicts.
Account and Subscription Status
Audio recording requires an active Arlo subscription for cloud storage. If your plan lapsed, audio might be disabled.
- Log into your Arlo account and verify your subscription status.
- If you’re using local storage (SD card), ensure it’s properly inserted and formatted.
When to Contact Arlo Support or Consider Replacements
Despite your best efforts, some issues might require professional help. Here’s how to know when to call in the experts.
Persistent Hardware Failures
If the microphone is physically damaged (e.g., cracked casing, water damage), it may need replacement. Signs of hardware failure include:
- No audio in any mode, even after troubleshooting.
- Distorted or static-filled sound that won’t clear.
- Visible damage to the mic or camera body.
Action: Contact Arlo support for warranty claims or repair options. The Pro 2 typically has a 1-year warranty.
Outdated or Discontinued Models
The Arlo Pro 2 was released in 2018. If your camera is several years old, it might be nearing end-of-life. Arlo occasionally phases out support for older models.
- Check Arlo’s website for your model’s support status.
- If no firmware updates are available, consider upgrading to a newer model (e.g., Arlo Pro 4 or Ultra).
Data Table: Quick Reference for Common Issues
| Issue | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| No audio in recordings | Disabled audio setting | Toggle “Record Audio” on in the app |
| Muffled or distant sound | Blocked mic or poor placement | Clean mic; reposition camera |
| Static or interference | Nearby electronics or weather | Move camera; enable noise reduction |
| Audio cuts out randomly | Weak Wi-Fi or low battery | Boost signal; replace batteries |
| No sound on one device | App permissions | Check microphone access in device settings |
Final Thoughts: Patience and Persistence Pay Off
Troubleshooting your Arlo Pro 2’s audio issues can feel like a puzzle, but with the right approach, you’ll solve it. Start with the simplest fixes (settings, reboots) before moving to hardware or advanced steps. Remember, every camera is a little different—what works for your neighbor might not work for you. The key is patience and a methodical approach.
If you’ve tried everything and still can’t hear from your Arlo Pro 2, don’t hesitate to reach out to Arlo support. They’ve seen it all and can offer tailored advice. And if you’re considering a replacement, newer models like the Arlo Pro 4 offer improved audio features, like directional mics and better noise cancellation. Whatever you decide, I hope this guide helps you get your camera’s sound back—and restores that peace of mind you bought it for in the first place. Happy troubleshooting!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I hear audio from my Arlo Pro 2 camera?
The most common cause is disabled audio settings. Open the Arlo app, go to your camera’s settings, and ensure the “Microphone” toggle is turned on. Also, check if your phone’s volume is up and not muted.
How do I fix the “can’t hear from my Arlo Pro 2 camera” issue during live streaming?
This could be due to a weak Wi-Fi signal or app glitches. Move closer to your router or restart the Arlo app. Reinstalling the app or updating its firmware may also resolve audio sync issues.
Is there a way to test if my Arlo Pro 2 camera microphone is working?
Yes, use the “Record a Video” feature in the Arlo app to capture a short clip with sound. Play it back to verify if audio is recorded. If not, check for physical obstructions on the microphone hole.
Why does my Arlo Pro 2 camera have no sound at night?
Infrared night vision mode doesn’t affect audio, but extreme weather (like wind) might. Ensure the camera’s firmware is updated, as outdated versions can cause night-time audio glitches.
Can a power cycle fix the Arlo Pro 2 audio problem?
Yes, power cycling often resolves temporary software bugs. Turn off the camera, wait 30 seconds, then restart it. This refreshes the connection and resets the microphone functionality.
Are there compatibility issues that cause no audio on Arlo Pro 2?
Rarely, outdated Arlo app versions or unsupported devices can cause audio problems. Update the app and ensure your smartphone/tablet meets Arlo’s compatibility requirements for full audio support.