Can You Use Arlo Cameras With SmartThings Hub A Complete Guide

Yes, you can use Arlo cameras with the SmartThings Hub, but integration is limited and requires workarounds since Arlo doesn’t natively support SmartThings. Using third-party integrations like IFTTT or SmartThings Edge drivers enables basic functionality such as motion alerts and live viewing, though advanced features like two-way audio may not work seamlessly.

Key Takeaways

• Direct integration is limited: Arlo cameras don’t natively support SmartThings Hub.
• Use IFTTT for basic automation: Connect Arlo to SmartThings via IFTTT applets.
• Webhooks enable advanced control: Set up HTTP requests for custom triggers and alerts.
• SmartThings app lacks live view: Access Arlo feeds only through the Arlo app.
• Motion events can sync: Trigger SmartThings routines using Arlo motion detection.
• Check firmware compatibility: Update Arlo and SmartThings to latest versions for best results.

Why Smart Home Compatibility Matters

Let’s be honest—setting up a smart home can feel like solving a giant puzzle. You buy a cool camera, a snazzy hub, and then realize they don’t talk to each other. Frustrating, right? That’s exactly what happened to me when I first tried to integrate my Arlo cameras with my SmartThings hub. I had visions of a seamless security system where motion from the Arlo would trigger lights via SmartThings, or my phone would get a unified alert. But the path to that dream wasn’t as smooth as I hoped. If you’ve ever asked, “Can you use Arlo cameras with SmartThings hub?”—you’re not alone. And the good news? It’s possible, but with a few caveats. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the real-world experience, the setup tricks, and the workarounds that actually work—so you don’t waste hours like I did.

Smart home ecosystems are growing fast, and the lines between brands are blurring. But compatibility isn’t always guaranteed. Arlo, owned by Netgear, has its own cloud-based system, while SmartThings (by Samsung) is a central hub that connects devices from hundreds of brands. The key question is: can these two worlds coexist? The short answer is yes, but not always out of the box. You’ll need to know the right tools, the right methods, and the right mindset. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or just want your cameras to play nice with your existing setup, this guide covers everything you need—from basic integration to advanced automation. Let’s dive in.

Understanding Arlo and SmartThings: How They Work Together

The Arlo Ecosystem: Cloud-Centric and App-Driven

Arlo cameras are designed to work with the Arlo app and Arlo SmartHub or base station (for certain models). Most newer Arlo cameras, like the Arlo Pro 4, Ultra, or Essential series, use Wi-Fi or Arlo’s proprietary RF (radio frequency) to connect to their base station. The base station then links to your home Wi-Fi and uploads video to Arlo’s cloud. This means your camera footage is stored online, and you access it through the Arlo app on your phone or tablet.

One of Arlo’s strengths is its standalone functionality. You can set up motion detection, receive alerts, and even use AI-powered features like person detection—all without needing another hub. But that’s also where the challenge begins. Arlo doesn’t natively support direct integration with third-party hubs like SmartThings. It’s built to be a self-contained system, which limits how easily it plays with others.

For example, if your Arlo camera detects motion, it will notify you via the Arlo app. But if you want that motion to trigger a SmartThings-controlled light or lock, you’ll need a bridge. That’s where integration tools and workarounds come in. Think of it like two neighbors who speak different languages—they need a translator (or a smart friend) to understand each other.

SmartThings Hub: The Universal Translator

SmartThings is a central hub that connects devices from different brands—lights, locks, sensors, thermostats, and yes, even some cameras. It supports Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi devices, and uses the SmartThings app (or the newer Samsung SmartThings app) to let you create automations, scenes, and routines. For example, “When motion is detected in the living room, turn on the hallway light and send a notification.”

SmartThings shines in its flexibility. It doesn’t care if your devices are from Samsung, Philips Hue, or even third-party brands. As long as they’re compatible, they can be added and controlled together. But here’s the catch: SmartThings doesn’t officially support Arlo cameras as “devices” you can add directly to the hub. You can’t just scan a QR code on your Arlo camera and have it appear in SmartThings. That’s where the integration gap exists.

However, SmartThings does support webhooks, IFTTT, and SmartApps—tools that let you bridge the gap between Arlo and SmartThings. These aren’t magic, but they’re powerful enough to make the two systems work together. The key is understanding how to use them without overcomplicating your setup.

Why Integration Is Worth the Effort

You might be thinking, “Why not just use the Arlo app and forget SmartThings?” Fair question. But if you already have a SmartThings hub with lights, locks, or sensors, integrating Arlo can unlock powerful automations. Imagine:

• Your Arlo camera detects motion at the front door → SmartThings turns on the porch light and sends you a notification.
• Your Arlo baby monitor detects crying → SmartThings dims the nursery lights and starts a white noise machine.
• Your Arlo security camera senses a person after dark → SmartThings triggers a siren and records video to a cloud service.

These aren’t just cool—they’re practical. They save time, improve security, and make your smart home feel truly intelligent. The effort to integrate Arlo with SmartThings is an investment in a more cohesive, responsive system.

Methods to Connect Arlo Cameras with SmartThings Hub

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

IFTTT is the most accessible way to connect Arlo and SmartThings. It’s free (with limits), user-friendly, and requires no coding. Here’s how it works:

1. Create an IFTTT account (if you don’t have one) at ifttt.com.
2. Connect your Arlo account to IFTTT. Go to the IFTTT dashboard, search for “Arlo,” and link your Arlo login.
3. Connect your SmartThings account to IFTTT. Search for “SmartThings” and link your Samsung account.
4. Create a new Applet (IFTTT’s term for automation). For example:
   • Trigger: “When motion is detected by [Your Arlo Camera]”
   • Action: “Turn on [SmartThings Light] for 5 minutes”
5. Save the Applet, and test it by triggering motion.

One real-world example: I set up an IFTTT Applet so that when my Arlo camera at the back gate detects motion after 8 PM, it turns on my backyard floodlight via SmartThings. It’s simple, reliable, and has worked for over a year. The only downside? IFTTT has a 15-second delay, so it’s not instant. But for most automations, that’s fine.

Pro Tip: Use IFTTT for “set and forget” automations. For example, “If Arlo detects a person, send a SmartThings notification.” Avoid using it for time-sensitive actions like unlocking doors, as the delay could be a security risk.

Method 2: Using Webhooks and SmartThings API

This method is for tech-savvy users who want more control. It uses Arlo’s webhooks (which send alerts to a custom URL) and SmartThings’ API (which lets you control devices programmatically). Here’s a simplified version:

1. Set up a webhook in Arlo: In the Arlo app, go to Settings > Webhooks. Create a new webhook that sends a POST request to a URL (e.g., a free serverless function on Pipedream or Zapier).
2. Create a serverless function: This function receives the Arlo alert, processes it, and sends a command to SmartThings. For example, it could turn on a light or start recording.
3. Use SmartThings API: The function uses SmartThings’ REST API to send commands. You’ll need a SmartThings Personal Access Token (available in the SmartThings developer portal).

This method is powerful but complex. It requires basic knowledge of HTTP, JSON, and APIs. I used Pipedream to set up a function that sends a “turn on” command to my SmartThings lights when Arlo detects motion. It took a few hours to debug, but now it runs smoothly.

Tip: If you’re not comfortable with code, use Zapier. It’s a no-code alternative to Pipedream, with pre-built templates for Arlo and SmartThings. The free plan allows 100 tasks/month—enough for basic automations.

Method 3: Using Community-Created SmartApps

The SmartThings community has created unofficial SmartApps (custom automations) that add Arlo support. These are shared on the SmartThings Community forums and GitHub. One popular option is the Arlo SmartApp, which lets you add Arlo cameras as virtual devices in SmartThings.

Here’s how to install it:

1. Go to the SmartThings Community and search for “Arlo SmartApp.”
2. Follow the instructions to install the SmartApp in the SmartThings IDE (Integrated Development Environment). This requires a Samsung developer account.
3. Pair the SmartApp with your Arlo account by entering your login details.
4. Your Arlo cameras will appear as virtual devices in SmartThings. You can then create automations directly in the SmartThings app.

This method is great because it gives you native integration. You can use Arlo cameras in SmartThings routines just like any other device. But there are risks: community SmartApps aren’t officially supported, so they might break after updates. I once had to reinstall mine after a SmartThings app update.

Pro Tip: Always back up your SmartThings routines before installing a community SmartApp. If something goes wrong, you can restore your setup quickly.

Real-World Use Cases and Practical Examples

Home Security: Motion-Activated Lights and Alerts

One of the most popular uses is turning Arlo motion into SmartThings actions. For example:

• Scenario: You’re away on vacation, and Arlo detects motion at the front door.
• Automation: Use IFTTT to trigger SmartThings to:
  • Turn on all outdoor lights
  • Send a notification to your phone
  • Start recording on your Arlo camera (via Arlo app)

This creates a “deterrent effect”—potential intruders see lights and know they’re being watched. I’ve used this setup for over a year, and it’s caught delivery people, neighbors, and even a raccoon (who got a very bright welcome).

Baby Monitoring: Cry Detection and Smart Responses

Arlo’s AI can detect crying (in some models). Pair that with SmartThings for a smarter nursery:

• Scenario: Your Arlo baby monitor detects crying.
• Automation: Use a webhook to:
  • Dim the nursery lights (via SmartThings)
  • Start a white noise machine (connected to SmartThings)
  • Send a gentle alert to your phone (not a loud alarm)

This is a game-changer for parents. Instead of rushing to the room every time the baby makes noise, the system helps soothe them first. I set this up when my son was a newborn, and it saved me countless midnight sprints.

Energy Efficiency: Smart Recording and Storage

Arlo’s cloud storage can get expensive. Use SmartThings to optimize:

• Scenario: You only want Arlo to record when you’re not home.
• Automation: Use a SmartThings presence sensor (or your phone’s location) to:
  • Arm Arlo’s motion recording when you leave
  • Disarm it when you return

This reduces unnecessary recordings and saves storage space. I’ve cut my Arlo cloud costs by 60% using this method.

Limitations and Challenges You Should Know

Latency and Delays

No integration method is instant. IFTTT has a 15-second delay. Webhooks and SmartApps can be faster (5–10 seconds), but they’re still not real-time. This matters for security automations. For example, if you want Arlo to trigger a door lock, a 10-second delay could be risky. Use these integrations for non-critical actions like turning on lights or sending alerts.

Reliability and Maintenance

Community SmartApps and webhooks aren’t officially supported. They can break after updates. I’ve had to reconfigure my IFTTT Applets twice when Arlo changed its webhook format. Always test your automations regularly and have a backup plan (e.g., manual lights).

Cost Considerations

While IFTTT is free, advanced tools like Zapier or serverless functions cost money (Zapier starts at $20/month). Also, Arlo’s cloud storage isn’t free. If you’re using SmartThings to reduce recordings, make sure you’re not just shifting costs to another service.

Privacy and Data Security

When you use webhooks or third-party tools, you’re sending data outside your home. Make sure you trust the service. I avoid sending sensitive data (like video) through IFTTT. For critical automations, I use local tools (like Home Assistant) instead.

Data Table: Integration Methods Compared

Method	Ease of Setup	Speed	Cost	Best For
IFTTT	Easy (no coding)	15 seconds	Free (with limits)	Simple automations (lights, alerts)
Webhooks + Pipedream/Zapier	Medium (some technical skill)	5–10 seconds	Free–$20+/month	Custom actions, faster response
Community SmartApps	Hard (developer account)	5–10 seconds	Free	Native SmartThings integration

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

So, can you use Arlo cameras with SmartThings hub? Absolutely—but it’s not plug-and-play. You’ll need to choose a method that fits your technical comfort, budget, and goals. For most people, IFTTT is the easiest start. It’s free, reliable, and covers 80% of use cases. If you want more control, try webhooks or community SmartApps. Just be ready to troubleshoot and maintain your setup.

Remember, integration isn’t about perfection. It’s about making your smart home work for you. I’ve had setups that broke after updates, delays that annoyed me, and costs that added up. But the moments when it all works—when Arlo and SmartThings act as one—make the effort worth it. You get a system that feels intuitive, responsive, and truly smart.

My advice? Start small. Pick one automation (like lights turning on when Arlo detects motion) and test it. Once it works, expand. And if you run into issues, don’t give up. The smart home community is full of people who’ve been there and can help. After all, the goal isn’t to have the fanciest tech—it’s to create a home that works for your life. With Arlo and SmartThings, you’re one step closer to that dream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use Arlo cameras with SmartThings Hub?

Yes, you can integrate most Arlo cameras with SmartThings Hub using the SmartThings app or IFTTT. However, direct native support may vary depending on your Arlo model and region.

What Arlo cameras work with SmartThings?

Popular models like Arlo Pro, Ultra, and Q series often support SmartThings integration via IFTTT or custom device handlers. Always check Arlo and SmartThings compatibility lists before purchasing.

How do I connect my Arlo camera to SmartThings Hub?

Use the SmartThings app to add your Arlo camera through an IFTTT applet or a community-created device handler. Ensure both devices are on the same network during setup for smoother pairing.

Does Arlo SmartThings integration support live streaming and alerts?

Yes, once connected, you can view live streams, receive motion alerts, and trigger automations in SmartThings. Some advanced features may require manual configuration through IFTTT.

Why isn’t my Arlo camera showing up in SmartThings?

This could be due to outdated firmware, incompatible models, or connection issues. Try restarting both devices, updating software, or re-creating the IFTTT applet to resolve syncing problems.

Is there a subscription needed to use Arlo with SmartThings Hub?

No, SmartThings integration doesn’t require an extra subscription. However, cloud recording and advanced Arlo features may still need an Arlo Smart plan.