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Yes, you can send Arlo camera feeds to more than one phone by sharing access through the Arlo app with family members or trusted users. Simply invite additional users via email and customize their permissions to view live footage, receive alerts, or manage settings—ideal for shared home security.
Key Takeaways
- Yes, share access: Arlo allows camera sharing with multiple phones via the app.
- Use the Arlo app: Add users under “Settings” > “Share Access” to grant permissions.
- Customize permissions: Choose what each user can view or control for privacy.
- No limit on devices: Multiple phones can access one camera simultaneously.
- Instant notifications: All shared users receive alerts for motion or recordings.
- Revoke anytime: Remove shared access instantly through the app if needed.
📑 Table of Contents
- Sharing Arlo Cameras with Multiple Phones: Is It Possible?
- How Arlo’s Multi-User Access Actually Works
- Step-by-Step Guide: Adding Multiple Phones to Your Arlo System
- Limitations and Things to Keep in Mind
- Advanced Tips for Power Users and Large Households
- Data Table: Arlo Multi-User Features at a Glance
- Final Thoughts: Making It Work for Your Home
Sharing Arlo Cameras with Multiple Phones: Is It Possible?
Picture this: You just installed your shiny new Arlo security camera system, excited to keep tabs on your home. But then you realize your spouse, roommate, or even your grown kids want access to the live feed too. Suddenly, you’re wondering: Can you send Arlo cameras to more than one phone? The good news is, yes — you absolutely can! But like most tech things, it’s not just a simple “yes” or “no” answer. There’s a bit of setup, some nuances to consider, and a few tips to make it work smoothly for everyone involved.
When I first set up my Arlo system, I assumed I’d have to share my login or pass the phone around. But after some trial and error, I discovered how easy it is to share access securely and efficiently. Whether you’re managing a busy household, running a small business, or just want peace of mind that multiple people can monitor your property, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover how to add multiple users, what the limitations are, and even some clever workarounds if you hit a snag. So, let’s dive in and make sure no one’s left in the dark — literally or figuratively!
How Arlo’s Multi-User Access Actually Works
Arlo makes it surprisingly simple to grant access to more than one phone, thanks to its user-friendly app and cloud-based system. The key lies in adding secondary users through the Arlo app, which allows them to view live feeds, receive alerts, and even control cameras (depending on permissions). Here’s how it works under the hood:
The Role of the Primary Account
Every Arlo system is tied to a primary account — usually the person who bought and set up the cameras. This account has full control over settings, subscriptions, and user management. Think of it like the “admin” role. The primary user can invite others to join as secondary users by sending them an invitation via email or phone number. Once accepted, these users get their own login credentials and can access the cameras from their own devices.
For example, if you’re the primary user, you can invite your partner to join your Arlo system. They’ll download the Arlo app, log in with their own email, and instantly see your cameras. No need to share your password or worry about someone snooping on your other accounts.
Permissions and Access Levels
One of the best features of Arlo’s multi-user setup is the ability to customize permissions. When you invite someone, you can choose whether they can:
- View live video and recordings
- Receive motion alerts and notifications
- Arm or disarm the system
- Change camera settings (like motion detection zones)
- Delete recordings (a sensitive permission, best reserved for trusted users)
Let’s say your teenage child wants access to check on the dog while you’re out. You can grant them viewing and alert permissions but disable their ability to delete recordings or change settings. That way, they stay informed without risking accidental changes.
Real-World Example: A Family Setup
Imagine a family of four: Mom (primary account), Dad, teenage daughter, and a grandparent who lives nearby. Mom sets up the Arlo system and invites the other three as secondary users. Dad gets full access since he’s also a homeowner. The daughter gets viewing and alert access but can’t delete recordings. The grandparent gets limited access — just live viewing and alerts — so they can check in on the kids but won’t mess with settings.
This kind of flexibility makes Arlo ideal for households where multiple people need different levels of access. It’s also great for small businesses, rental properties, or even community watch groups.
Step-by-Step Guide: Adding Multiple Phones to Your Arlo System
Now that you understand the basics, let’s walk through the actual process of adding more phones to your Arlo system. I’ll keep it simple — no tech jargon, just clear steps you can follow in under 10 minutes.
Step 1: Open the Arlo App and Log In
First, make sure you’re logged in to your primary Arlo account on the Arlo app (available on iOS and Android). Tap the three-line menu icon in the top-left corner to access your account settings.
Step 2: Navigate to User Management
Go to Settings > My Account > Users. You’ll see a list of current users — probably just you, if you’re the primary account holder. Tap the “+” or “Add User” button to start the process.
Step 3: Enter the New User’s Information
You’ll need to enter either the person’s email address or phone number. Arlo will send them an invitation to join your system. Make sure they’re ready to accept it — they’ll need to download the Arlo app and create their own account if they don’t already have one.
Step 4: Set Permissions
This is where you decide what the new user can and can’t do. As mentioned earlier, you can customize their access level. For most family members, I recommend:
- View live video: On
- Receive alerts: On
- Arm/disarm system: On (if trusted)
- Delete recordings: Off (unless they’re a primary admin)
Step 5: Send the Invitation
Once you’ve set the permissions, tap “Send.” The new user will get a notification (via email or text) with a link to join your Arlo system. They’ll need to click the link, download the app, and log in to accept the invitation.
Step 6: Verify Access
After the new user accepts, you can verify their access by checking the “Users” list in your app. They should now be able to see your cameras, receive alerts, and perform actions based on their permissions.
Pro Tip: Use Nicknames for Clarity
If you have multiple users (e.g., “Dad,” “Mom,” “Teenager”), use the nickname feature to label them clearly. This helps avoid confusion when managing permissions later. You can edit nicknames by tapping on a user’s name in the “Users” list.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, the invitation doesn’t arrive or the user can’t accept it. Here are a few quick fixes:
- Check spam/junk folders — the invitation email might end up there.
- Ensure the user has a strong internet connection — they’ll need it to download the app and accept the invite.
- Resend the invitation if it expires (they usually last 24-48 hours).
- Double-check email/phone number — a typo can delay the process.
Limitations and Things to Keep in Mind
While Arlo’s multi-user system is powerful, it’s not without its limits. Being aware of these will help you avoid frustration and make the most of your setup.
User Limits per Account
Arlo allows up to 15 secondary users per primary account. That’s more than enough for most households, but if you’re running a large business or community project, you might hit this cap. If you need more, consider creating a second primary account and linking it through a shared network (though this is more complex and not officially supported).
Subscription and Storage Considerations
All users share the same Arlo subscription and cloud storage. If you’re on a plan with limited storage (like the basic 7-day plan), all users’ recordings count toward the same limit. This means if your kid watches a lot of playback, it could fill up faster. Consider upgrading to a longer storage plan (e.g., 30 days) if multiple people are actively using the system.
Notification Overload
Here’s a common issue: If multiple users have alerts enabled, you might get duplicate notifications for the same event. For example, both you and your spouse get a “motion detected” alert at the same time. To avoid this:
- Use custom alert zones to reduce false alarms (e.g., ignore the driveway if only one person needs to monitor it).
- Set up alert schedules — e.g., only get alerts during certain hours.
- Use Arlo’s “Smart Alerts” feature (if available) to filter out people, animals, or vehicles.
Camera Sharing with Non-Arlo Users
What if someone doesn’t want to install the Arlo app? Unfortunately, there’s no way to grant access without them downloading the app and creating an account. However, you can:
- Share a live feed link (temporary and less secure) — go to a camera, tap “Share,” and send a link. This works for quick check-ins but isn’t ideal for ongoing access.
- Use a shared tablet — set up a dedicated device with the Arlo app for communal viewing (e.g., in a family room).
Data Usage and Bandwidth
More users = more data usage. If you have several people watching live feeds or downloading recordings, it could impact your home internet speed. To mitigate this:
- Use lower video quality for remote viewing (adjustable in camera settings).
- Limit simultaneous live streams — Arlo allows up to 3 live streams at once (more than that may cause buffering).
Advanced Tips for Power Users and Large Households
If you’re managing a complex setup — like a multi-generational home, rental property, or small business — here are some advanced strategies to streamline access and avoid chaos.
Create a “Camera Group” for Shared Access
Arlo allows you to group cameras (e.g., “Front Yard,” “Backyard,” “Garage”). You can then assign users to specific groups. For example:
- Your teenager only gets access to the backyard camera (to check on the dog).
- The babysitter only sees the indoor nursery camera.
- Your property manager has access to all outdoor cameras but not the inside ones.
This keeps everyone focused on what they need without overwhelming them with irrelevant feeds.
Use “Away” and “Home” Modes Strategically
Arlo’s modes (Away, Home, Disarmed) let you control when cameras record and send alerts. You can assign users to specific modes. For instance:
- When you set the system to “Away,” both you and your partner get alerts.
- When you’re “Home,” only you get alerts (to reduce noise).
This is especially useful if you have roommates or family members who come and go at different times.
Set Up Automated Rules
Arlo’s rules feature lets you automate actions based on triggers. For example:
- When the front door opens at night, send an alert to both your phone and your spouse’s.
- If motion is detected in the garage, record a 30-second clip and notify your security team (if you have one).
Rules can be created in the app under Settings > Modes > Rules. They’re a game-changer for large or busy households.
Use Arlo’s “Guest Access” for Short-Term Needs
Need to give temporary access to a house sitter, repair person, or Airbnb guest? Use Guest Access (available in newer Arlo models). You can:
- Grant access for a specific time frame (e.g., 24 hours, one week).
- Limit their permissions (e.g., view only, no alerts).
- Revoke access instantly when they’re done.
This is perfect for short-term situations where you don’t want to add a permanent user.
Data Table: Arlo Multi-User Features at a Glance
| Feature | Available? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Number of secondary users | Up to 15 | Per primary account |
| Custom permissions | Yes | View, alert, arm/disarm, delete recordings |
| Camera groups | Yes | Assign users to specific camera groups |
| Live feed sharing (no app) | Partial | Temporary links only; not secure for long-term |
| Simultaneous live streams | Up to 3 | More may cause buffering |
| Guest access | Yes (newer models) | Time-limited, revocable |
| Shared cloud storage | Yes | All users share the same subscription |
Final Thoughts: Making It Work for Your Home
So, can you send Arlo cameras to more than one phone? Absolutely — and it’s one of Arlo’s strongest features. Whether you’re sharing access with family, roommates, or a trusted neighbor, the system is designed to be flexible, secure, and easy to manage. The key is to plan ahead: decide who needs access, what they should be able to do, and how to avoid notification overload.
From my experience, the biggest mistake people make is either over-sharing (giving everyone full access, which can lead to confusion) or under-sharing (not setting up secondary users, which defeats the purpose of a shared security system). Take the time to set permissions thoughtfully, use camera groups, and leverage modes and rules to keep things organized.
And remember: Arlo’s multi-user system isn’t just about convenience — it’s about peace of mind. When multiple people can monitor your home, you’re not just relying on one person to catch an issue. If you’re at work and your spouse is out, your teen can still get an alert. If a delivery person shows up while you’re away, your neighbor can check it out. It’s a team effort, and Arlo makes it possible.
So go ahead — invite those users, set those permissions, and enjoy the confidence that comes from knowing your home is being watched by the people you trust. And if you run into any hiccups? Don’t worry — the Arlo app’s support section is surprisingly helpful, and there’s a huge community of users online who’ve probably faced (and solved) the same issues.
Happy monitoring!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you send Arlo cameras to more than one phone?
Yes, Arlo cameras can be shared with multiple phones using the Arlo app’s “Share Access” feature. This allows family members or team members to view live feeds and receive alerts on their own devices.
How do I share my Arlo camera with another phone?
Open the Arlo app, go to Settings > Share Access, and enter the email address associated with the recipient’s Arlo account. They’ll receive an invitation to view your camera feeds securely.
Is there a limit to how many phones I can share Arlo cameras with?
Arlo allows sharing with up to 10 users per camera system, ensuring flexibility for households or small businesses. Each user must have their own Arlo account to accept the shared access.
Can I control Arlo cameras from multiple phones simultaneously?
Yes, multiple users can access and control shared Arlo cameras in real time, including arming/disarming systems or viewing recordings. All activity is logged in the app for security.
Do all phones need the Arlo app to receive shared camera access?
Yes, recipients must install the Arlo app and log in to their own Arlo account to view shared cameras. The app is free on iOS and Android, making setup quick and simple.
Can you send Arlo cameras to more than one phone without compromising privacy?
Absolutely. Arlo’s sharing feature uses encrypted connections and lets you revoke access anytime. You can also customize permissions, such as restricting deletion of recordings or live view access.