Can You Use Alexa With Arlo Cameras A Complete Guide

Yes, you can use Alexa with Arlo cameras to enable voice-controlled live viewing, motion alerts, and smart home automation through compatible Echo devices. Integration is seamless via the Alexa app, allowing you to arm/disarm cameras, view feeds on Echo Show, and trigger routines—boosting security and convenience effortlessly.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, Alexa works with Arlo: Use voice commands via Alexa-enabled devices to view Arlo camera feeds.
• Link accounts first: Connect Arlo and Alexa in the Alexa app to enable integration.
• Live viewing made easy: Say “Alexa, show [camera name]” to stream footage on Echo Show or Fire TV.
• No two-way audio: Alexa can display Arlo video but won’t support camera-to-device communication.
• Check compatibility: Most Arlo models work, but verify yours in the Arlo/Alexa support lists.
• Routines enhance automation: Create Alexa routines to trigger Arlo alerts or recordings with voice prompts.

The Smart Home Dream: Bringing Alexa and Arlo Together

Imagine this: You’re cozy on the couch, wrapped in a blanket with a warm cup of tea, and instead of getting up to check who’s at the front door, you simply say, “Alexa, show me the front door camera.” Within seconds, your living room TV or Echo Show screen lights up with a live feed from your Arlo camera. That’s the magic of smart home integration — and it’s not just a fantasy. It’s a real, achievable setup for many homeowners today.

If you’re like me — someone who loves both convenience and peace of mind — combining Alexa with Arlo cameras feels like a no-brainer. Alexa, Amazon’s voice-powered assistant, has become a central hub in many households, while Arlo’s line of wireless, high-resolution security cameras offers reliable surveillance. But can you use Alexa with Arlo cameras? And if so, how well does it actually work? In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from setup and compatibility to real-world use cases and troubleshooting tips — so you can decide if this combo is right for your smart home.

Understanding Arlo Cameras and Alexa: The Basics

Before we dive into integration, let’s take a quick look at what each product brings to the table. Understanding their core features helps explain why pairing them makes sense — and where limitations might arise.

What Are Arlo Cameras?

Arlo, a brand under Netgear, is known for its sleek, weather-resistant, wire-free security cameras. Popular models include:

• Arlo Pro series (Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S) – 2K or 4K resolution, color night vision, spotlight, two-way audio
• Arlo Ultra – 4K HDR, advanced AI detection, magnetic charging
• Arlo Essential – Budget-friendly, 1080p, indoor/outdoor options
• Arlo Doorbell and Floodlight – Specialized for entry points and wide-area coverage

These cameras are designed for easy installation, offer cloud or local storage (with optional base stations), and work via the Arlo app for remote access and alerts.

What Is Amazon Alexa?

Alexa is Amazon’s voice-activated virtual assistant, available on devices like Echo, Echo Dot, Echo Show, Fire TV, and third-party smart speakers. Alexa can control smart lights, play music, set timers, and — crucially — integrate with compatible smart home devices, including security cameras.

Alexa doesn’t directly “see” your cameras. Instead, it acts as a bridge between your voice commands and the apps or platforms managing your devices. For Arlo, this means Alexa communicates with the Arlo skill (a built-in integration in the Alexa app) to access your camera feeds and settings.

Why Pair Alexa and Arlo?

Combining Alexa with Arlo cameras gives you:

• Hands-free access to live camera views using voice commands
• Seamless integration with other Alexa-enabled devices (e.g., turning on lights when motion is detected)
• Convenient monitoring via Echo Show or Fire TV — no need to pull out your phone
• Enhanced automation through routines (e.g., “Goodnight” routine that checks all cameras)

For example, I use Alexa to check my backyard camera when my dog barks at night. Instead of fumbling with my phone in the dark, I just say, “Alexa, show me the backyard.” It’s faster, safer, and feels like living in the future.

Can You Use Alexa With Arlo Cameras? Compatibility Breakdown

Now, let’s answer the main question: Can you use Alexa with Arlo cameras? The short answer is yes — but with some conditions. Not every Arlo model or feature works flawlessly with Alexa, and understanding these nuances is key to a smooth experience.

Which Arlo Cameras Work With Alexa?

Most modern Arlo cameras released in the past five years are compatible with Alexa, including:

• Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S
• Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2
• Arlo Essential, Essential XL, Essential Spotlight
• Arlo Video Doorbell (all generations)
• Arlo Floodlight Cam

Note: Older models like the original Arlo (2014) or Arlo Go (LTE-based) may have limited or no Alexa support. Always check your camera’s model number and firmware version.

Required Hardware and Software

To use Alexa with Arlo, you’ll need:

• An Alexa-enabled device (Echo, Echo Show, Fire TV, etc.)
• Arlo cameras with updated firmware (check in the Arlo app)
• Arlo account and app (iOS or Android)
• Amazon account linked to your Alexa devices
• Stable Wi-Fi connection (critical for video streaming)

Pro tip: I once had issues with laggy feeds until I realized my Arlo base station was too far from my router. Moving it closer fixed the problem — a small detail, but it made a big difference.

What Features Are Supported?

Alexa supports several Arlo functions, but not all:

Feature	Supported by Alexa?	Notes
Live camera view	✅ Yes	On Echo Show, Fire TV, or compatible smart displays
Two-way audio	✅ Yes	Talk through the camera from an Echo Show
Motion alerts	✅ Yes (via routines)	Alexa can announce motion or trigger actions
Recordings playback	❌ No	Must use the Arlo app for recorded clips
Camera settings	❌ No	Adjust sensitivity, zones, etc., in the Arlo app
Arm/disarm system	✅ Yes	Use voice to turn on/off camera monitoring

As you can see, Alexa is great for real-time monitoring and basic controls, but for advanced features like reviewing past recordings or adjusting detection zones, you’ll still need the Arlo app.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

While the integration works well, it’s not perfect:

• Latency: There can be a 2–5 second delay between speaking and the camera feed loading — not ideal for urgent situations.
• No multi-camera view: Alexa can only show one camera at a time on Echo Show.
• Echo Dot (non-screen) limitations: You can’t view video on devices without a screen, but you can still arm/disarm or get audio alerts.
• Geofencing quirks: Sometimes Alexa doesn’t sync with Arlo’s geofencing (auto-arming when you leave). I had to manually set up a routine to fix this.

Bottom line: Alexa and Arlo work well together for convenience and quick checks, but don’t expect it to replace the Arlo app for full control.

Step-by-Step: How to Connect Alexa to Arlo Cameras

Setting up Alexa with Arlo is surprisingly simple. I did it in under 10 minutes, and you can too. Here’s how:

Step 1: Update Your Devices

Before linking anything, make sure:

• Your Arlo cameras are online and updated (check in the Arlo app under Settings > Device Info)
• Your Alexa app and device firmware are up to date

I once skipped this step and spent 20 minutes troubleshooting — only to realize my camera needed a firmware update. Lesson learned!

Step 2: Enable the Arlo Skill in Alexa

1. Open the Alexa app (iOS or Android)
2. Tap More (bottom right) > Skills & Games
3. Search for “Arlo”
4. Tap on the Arlo Smart Home skill (by Netgear)
5. Tap Enable to Use

You’ll be redirected to the Arlo login page. Enter your Arlo account email and password to link the accounts.

Step 3: Discover Devices

1. Back in the Alexa app, go to Devices > Cameras
2. Tap + > Add Device
3. Select Camera > Arlo
4. Alexa will search for your Arlo cameras and add them automatically

Your cameras should appear in the Alexa app under “Cameras.” You can rename them for easier voice control (e.g., “Front Door,” “Backyard”).

Step 4: Test Voice Commands

Try these commands on your Alexa device:

• “Alexa, show me the Front Door camera.”
• “Alexa, turn on the Backyard camera.”
• “Alexa, arm my Arlo system.”
• “Alexa, talk to the Front Door.” (on Echo Show)

If the camera feed appears, you’re all set! If not, check the troubleshooting section below.

Step 5: Set Up Routines (Optional)

Take it further by creating Alexa routines. For example:

• When you say “Goodnight,” Alexa turns off lights, locks doors, and arms your Arlo cameras.
• When motion is detected at the front door, Alexa announces “Motion at the front door” and turns on the porch light.

To set this up:

1. In the Alexa app, go to More > Routines
2. Tap + to create a new routine
3. Choose a trigger (voice, motion, time, etc.)
4. Add actions: “Arm Arlo system,” “Turn on porch light,” etc.
5. Save and test

I use a “Goodbye” routine every morning — it’s satisfying to say, “Alexa, I’m leaving,” and watch the house secure itself.

Real-World Use Cases: How People Actually Use Alexa + Arlo

Now that you know how to set it up, let’s explore how real users — and I — are using this combo in daily life.

1. Checking the Door Without Moving

One of the most popular uses: “Alexa, show me the front door.” Whether you’re cooking, working, or relaxing, you can instantly see who’s outside without getting up. I use this daily for deliveries, neighbors, or just to check if the mail arrived.

2. Monitoring Pets and Kids

Parents and pet owners love this. You can say, “Alexa, show me the living room,” to see if the kids are playing safely or if the dog is on the couch. I once caught my cat knocking over a plant — and laughed about it later.

3. Security While Away

When traveling, I use Alexa to check in. I’ll say, “Alexa, show me the backyard,” to confirm no one’s in the pool area. It’s not a full replacement for the Arlo app (which shows recordings), but it’s great for quick peace of mind.

4. Two-Way Communication

With an Echo Show, you can talk through your Arlo camera. I’ve used this to greet delivery drivers or tell a neighbor I’ll be right out. The audio quality is clear, and the delay is minimal (under 2 seconds).

5. Automated Alerts and Responses

Set up routines so Alexa responds to Arlo events:

• When motion is detected, Alexa says, “Front door motion detected”
• At night, motion triggers a porch light to turn on
• When you leave home, Alexa arms all cameras

I had a false alarm one night — a raccoon tripped the motion sensor. But thanks to the routine, the light turned on, and the raccoon ran off. No false panic!

6. Multi-Room Monitoring

If you have multiple Echo Shows, you can view different cameras on each screen. For example:

• Kitchen Echo Show: “Alexa, show me the garage”
• Bedroom Echo Show: “Alexa, show me the nursery”

This is great for large homes or families with young kids.

Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting

Even with a solid setup, issues can pop up. Here are my top tips and fixes from months of using Alexa with Arlo.

Optimize Your Setup

• Name cameras clearly: Avoid generic names like “Camera 1.” Use “Front Door,” “Driveway,” etc., for easier voice control.
• Use Echo Show for best experience: The screen makes live viewing and two-way audio much better.
• Keep cameras charged: Wire-free Arlo cameras need regular charging. A dead camera won’t respond to Alexa.
• Use a base station (if possible): It improves signal strength and recording reliability.

Common Issues and Fixes

Problem: “Alexa can’t find my Arlo camera.”

• Check that the Arlo skill is enabled and linked to the correct account
• Restart both the Arlo app and Alexa app
• Re-discover devices in the Alexa app

Problem: “Camera feed is slow or choppy.”

• Move your Arlo base station closer to the router
• Reduce camera resolution in the Arlo app (from 4K to 2K)
• Ensure your Wi-Fi signal is strong (use a Wi-Fi extender if needed)

Problem: “Alexa won’t arm my Arlo system.”

• Verify that “Arm” is enabled in the Arlo skill settings
• Check that your Arlo subscription (if needed) is active
• Try saying “Alexa, arm the Arlo cameras” instead of “system”

Advanced Tips

• Use IFTTT for extra automation: Create custom routines (e.g., “When Arlo detects motion, send a text message”) using IFTTT (If This Then That).
• Set up geofencing: Use the Arlo app to auto-arm when your phone leaves the area, then use Alexa to override if needed.
• Create a “Security” scene: In Alexa, group cameras and lights. Say “Alexa, activate security mode” to arm cameras and turn on outdoor lights.

I once used IFTTT to make Alexa tweet when my front door opened — a fun (but temporary) experiment for a party!

Final Thoughts: Is Alexa + Arlo Right for You?

So, can you use Alexa with Arlo cameras? Absolutely — and for many people, it’s a game-changer. The integration is stable, easy to set up, and adds real value to your smart home. Whether you want to check the front door with your voice, talk to visitors from another room, or automate your security, this combo delivers.

That said, it’s not flawless. The lack of multi-camera views, slight delays, and limited playback controls mean the Arlo app will always be part of your routine. But for quick, convenient, hands-free monitoring, Alexa and Arlo work beautifully together.

Think of it this way: Alexa is your friendly assistant who can show you the live feed, while Arlo is the expert who handles recordings, alerts, and settings. Together, they form a powerful team.

My advice? Try it out. Set up one camera with Alexa and see how it fits into your life. I started with just the front door — and now, I can’t imagine my home without it. Whether you’re a busy parent, a pet owner, or just someone who values peace of mind, this integration brings a little more control, convenience, and calm to your everyday.

After all, the best smart home tech isn’t about having the fanciest gadgets — it’s about making life easier, one voice command at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use Alexa with Arlo cameras for voice commands?

Yes, you can use Alexa with Arlo cameras to control them via voice commands. Simply enable the Arlo skill in the Alexa app and link your Arlo account to view live feeds or arm/disarm systems using Alexa-enabled devices.

Which Arlo cameras work with Alexa?

Most Arlo cameras, including Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Essential models, support Alexa integration. Check the Arlo app or product specs to confirm compatibility with Alexa’s live view and two-way audio features.

How do I connect my Arlo cameras to Alexa?

To connect Arlo cameras to Alexa, open the Alexa app, search for the “Arlo” skill, and log in to your Arlo account. Follow the prompts to discover devices and sync your cameras for voice control.

Can Alexa show my Arlo camera feed on Echo Show?

Yes, Alexa can display your Arlo camera feed on Echo Show or Fire TV. Use commands like “Alexa, show me the front door camera” to view live streams hands-free.

Does Alexa support Arlo camera motion alerts?

While Alexa doesn’t directly announce Arlo motion alerts, you can use routines in the Alexa app to trigger notifications or lights when motion is detected by your Arlo cameras.

Can I use Alexa with Arlo cameras without a subscription?

Yes, basic Alexa features like live viewing work without an Arlo subscription. However, advanced features like cloud storage or activity zones require an Arlo Secure plan.