Do Arlo Cameras Work With HomeKit A Complete Guide

Yes, select Arlo cameras work with Apple HomeKit, but only when used with compatible hubs like the Arlo SmartHub or Base Station (VMB4000/VMB5000). Direct HomeKit integration is limited to newer models, such as the Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and Essential wired doorbell—older or standalone Wi-Fi cameras typically lack support. For seamless access via the Apple Home app and Siri, ensure your camera is linked through the Arlo app and updated to the latest firmware.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras require HomeKit Secure Video support: Only specific models like Arlo Pro 3 and Ultra work with HomeKit.
• Use the Home app for setup: Pair compatible Arlo cameras directly via Apple’s Home app for seamless integration.
• No live view in HomeKit? Ensure your Arlo firmware and iOS are updated to the latest versions.
• HomeKit Secure Video offers encryption: Recordings are end-to-end encrypted and stored in iCloud for privacy.
• Two-way audio is supported: Use Siri to communicate through Arlo cameras via HomeKit-enabled devices.
• Check iCloud plan storage: HomeKit Secure Video requires at least 200GB iCloud+ for recording storage.
• Arlo app remains essential: Advanced features still require the Arlo app, even with HomeKit enabled.

Do Arlo Cameras Work With HomeKit? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: You’re at work, sipping your third cup of coffee, when your phone buzzes. It’s your Arlo camera alerting you that someone’s at the front door. You pull up the live feed—only to see the neighbor’s dog wagging its tail at the porch. Annoying, right? But what if you could just say, “Hey Siri, show me the front porch?” and instantly pull up that same feed on your Apple TV or iPad, right from the HomeKit app? That’s the dream of a seamless smart home. And if you’re an Apple loyalist with Arlo gear, you’ve probably asked the big question: Do Arlo cameras work with HomeKit?

The short answer? It depends. And that’s where things get tricky. While Arlo and Apple both dominate their respective corners of the smart home world, their integration isn’t always plug-and-play. As someone who’s spent months testing Arlo cameras with HomeKit, I’ve learned the ins and outs—the wins, the frustrations, and the workarounds. This guide is my honest take: no fluff, no hype. Whether you’re setting up your first Arlo cam or trying to unify your Apple ecosystem, I’ll walk you through compatibility, setup steps, limitations, and real-world tips to get the most out of your gear. Let’s dive in.

Understanding Arlo and HomeKit: What Are They?

What Is Arlo?

Arlo is a brand of wireless, battery-powered security cameras known for their sleek design, weather resistance, and smart features. Think motion detection, night vision, two-way audio, and cloud storage (with subscription plans). Popular models include the Arlo Pro 4, Arlo Ultra 2, and the budget-friendly Arlo Essential. Most Arlo cameras connect to your home Wi-Fi or a base station (like the Arlo SmartHub), and you control them via the Arlo app on your smartphone. They’re great for DIYers who want flexibility—no wires, no complex setups.

What Is Apple HomeKit?

HomeKit is Apple’s framework for smart home devices. It lets you control lights, locks, thermostats, and cameras using Siri, the Home app, or automation. Think “Hey Siri, turn on the living room lights” or “When I leave home, lock the doors.” HomeKit’s big selling point? End-to-end encryption. Your data stays on your devices or in iCloud—unlike some cloud-dependent systems. It works with Apple TV, HomePod, or an iPad as a hub, so you can access your home remotely. But here’s the catch: HomeKit only works with devices that have the “Works with Apple HomeKit” label.

Why the Integration Matters

If you’re all-in on Apple—iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, HomePod—you probably want a unified experience. No juggling multiple apps. No “Is this camera on the Arlo app or the Home app?” confusion. With HomeKit, you can:

• View Arlo camera feeds in the Home app alongside other smart devices.
• Use Siri voice commands (“Show me the backyard”).
• Set automations (e.g., “When motion is detected, turn on the porch light”).
• Share camera access with family members via iCloud.

But here’s the reality: Not all Arlo cameras support HomeKit. And even when they do, the experience isn’t always seamless. Let’s break down the compatibility.

Which Arlo Cameras Are Compatible With HomeKit?

Officially Supported Models

As of 2024, only a handful of Arlo cameras work with HomeKit—and it’s not about the camera’s price or features. Here’s the current list:

• Arlo Pro 3 (with firmware update)
• Arlo Pro 4
• Arlo Pro 5S 2K
• Arlo Ultra 2
• Arlo Essential Indoor
• Arlo Essential Outdoor
• Arlo Go 2 (LTE model)

Note: Older models like the Arlo Pro 2 or Arlo Q do not support HomeKit. Even if you have the latest firmware, they’re excluded. This is frustrating if you’re upgrading—you might need to replace your entire system just to get Apple integration.

What About Arlo’s Base Stations?

Some Arlo cameras (like the Pro 3 and Pro 4) use a base station (e.g., Arlo SmartHub) to connect to Wi-Fi. For HomeKit, the base station must also be compatible. The Arlo SmartHub (VMB5000 or VMB4540) supports HomeKit, but older hubs (like the VMB4000) do not. If you’re setting up a new system, make sure your hub is HomeKit-ready. Otherwise, you’ll hit a dead end.

Key Limitation: No HomeKit for Battery-Powered Arlo Cameras (Yet)

Wait—what? The Arlo Essential is battery-powered and HomeKit-compatible. But here’s the catch: When the camera is in “battery mode” (not plugged in), HomeKit support is disabled. Why? Arlo’s HomeKit integration requires a constant power source. So if you want to use your Arlo Essential with HomeKit, you’ll need to:

1. Keep it plugged in (using the included USB cable).
2. Or use a solar panel (sold separately) to maintain power.

This is a big deal for outdoor cameras. If you rely on battery life for placement flexibility, HomeKit becomes a non-starter. For example, I tried using my Arlo Essential Outdoor on a shed—no power outlet nearby. Even with a solar panel, it occasionally drained, and HomeKit would disconnect. Not ideal.

How to Set Up Arlo Cameras With HomeKit: Step-by-Step

Prerequisites: What You Need

Before you start, make sure you have:

• An Arlo camera from the compatible list (see above).
• A HomeKit hub (Apple TV 4K, HomePod, or iPad with iOS 15+).
• The Arlo app (latest version).
• The Home app (on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac).
• A power source for battery-powered cameras (if using HomeKit).

Pro tip: If your Arlo camera is already set up, don’t delete it from the Arlo app. HomeKit uses the Arlo app as the “backend”—you’ll just add it to HomeKit as an accessory.

Step 1: Update Firmware and Apps

Open the Arlo app and check for firmware updates. Go to Settings > My Devices > [Your Camera] > Firmware Update. Do the same for your HomeKit hub (Apple TV, etc.). Outdated firmware is the #1 cause of setup failures. I once wasted an hour troubleshooting only to realize my Arlo Pro 4 needed a 10-minute update.

Step 2: Add the Camera to the Arlo App

1. Open the Arlo app and follow the setup wizard.
2. Connect your camera to Wi-Fi (or base station).
3. Test the live feed. If it works, you’re ready for HomeKit.

Step 3: Enable HomeKit in the Arlo App

This is the magic step:

1. In the Arlo app, tap Settings > My Devices > [Your Camera].
2. Look for “Apple HomeKit” or “Works with Apple Home”.
3. Toggle it ON.
4. Tap “Add to Home”. The app will generate a HomeKit setup code (8-digit number).

Note: If you don’t see this option, your camera isn’t HomeKit-compatible (or needs a firmware update).

Step 4: Add to the Home App

1. Open the Home app on your iPhone.
2. Tap “+” > Add Accessory.
3. Scan the HomeKit code (from the Arlo app) with your phone’s camera.
4. Name your camera (e.g., “Front Door”).
5. Assign it to a room (e.g., “Entryway”).

Done! Your Arlo camera is now in the Home app. You’ll see a live feed, motion alerts, and controls for recording.

Step 5: Test Siri and Automations

Try voice commands:

• “Hey Siri, show me the front door.” (Opens the camera feed on your device.)
• “Hey Siri, is the backyard camera on?” (Checks status.)

For automations, go to Home app > Automations > +. Examples:

• “When motion is detected, turn on the porch light.” (Works if you have a HomeKit light.)
• “When I arrive home, turn off all cameras.”

Tip: If Siri says “I can’t find that camera,” restart your HomeKit hub. It’s a common glitch.

Limitations and Workarounds: What Arlo + HomeKit Can’t Do

No 24/7 Recording or Cloud Storage in HomeKit

HomeKit only shows live feeds and motion alerts. It doesn’t store recordings. To save clips, you still need the Arlo app and an Arlo Secure subscription ($2.99–$14.99/month). This is a dealbreaker if you rely on cloud storage. For example, I once missed a package delivery because the HomeKit alert came late, and the Arlo app hadn’t uploaded the clip yet. Always check both apps.

Motion Detection Settings Are Limited

In the Home app, you can’t adjust motion sensitivity, activity zones, or smart detection (like person/vehicle/ animal). Those settings are locked to the Arlo app. So if you want to ignore the neighbor’s cat, you’ll need to open Arlo every time. Not ideal for power users.

No Two-Way Audio via HomeKit

You can see your camera feed in the Home app, but you can’t talk through it. To use two-way audio, you must open the Arlo app. I’ve tried yelling “Hey, stop digging my flowers!” through my iPad’s Home app—no luck. Always switch to Arlo for real-time communication.

Workaround: Use “Favorites” and Scenes

To reduce app-switching, create a HomeKit scene called “Check Security.” Add your Arlo cameras and other HomeKit devices (e.g., smart lights). Now, say “Hey Siri, check security,” and all your cameras pop up at once. It’s not perfect, but it saves time.

Data Table: Arlo + HomeKit Feature Comparison

Feature	Arlo App	HomeKit App
Live Feed	Yes	Yes
Motion Alerts	Yes (with smart detection)	Yes (basic alerts)
Cloud Storage	Yes (subscription required)	No
Two-Way Audio	Yes	No
Activity Zones	Yes	No
Siri Voice Control	No	Yes
Automations	Yes (Arlo-only)	Yes (with other HomeKit devices)

Alternatives and Future Outlook

Alternative: Use a HomeKit-Compatible Camera

If Arlo’s limitations frustrate you, consider switching to a native HomeKit camera. Brands like Eve, Aqara, and Logitech Circle View offer:

• End-to-end encrypted cloud storage (no subscriptions).
• 24/7 recording with HomeKit Secure Video.
• Seamless two-way audio via Home app.

Downsides? They’re often more expensive, and some lack Arlo’s battery flexibility. But for Apple purists, the trade-off might be worth it.

Workaround: Use a HomeBridge or Third-Party Hub

Tech-savvy users can try HomeBridge (a Raspberry Pi-based server) to add unsupported Arlo cameras to HomeKit. It’s free but requires coding skills and isn’t officially supported. I tried it once—it worked, but the feed lagged, and I lost smart detection. Not recommended for beginners.

Will Arlo Expand HomeKit Support?

Arlo has been slow to add HomeKit to newer cameras. The Arlo Pro 5S (2023) supports it, but the Arlo Essential XL (2024) doesn’t. Why? Likely because HomeKit requires more power and processing—something battery cameras struggle with. But with Apple’s push for smart homes, I hope Arlo adds more support. For now, if you’re buying new, stick to the compatible list.

Final Verdict: Should You Use Arlo With HomeKit?

So, do Arlo cameras work with HomeKit? Yes—but with caveats. If you:

• Own a compatible Arlo camera (Pro 4, Ultra 2, etc.).
• Don’t mind using the Arlo app for recordings and advanced settings.
• Want Siri control and HomeKit automations.

…then the integration is worth it. The ability to say “Hey Siri, show me the backyard” and instantly see a live feed is incredibly convenient. I use it daily to check my dog or see if the mail arrived.

But if you:

• Rely on battery-powered Arlo cameras (without constant power).
• Need 24/7 cloud storage or two-way audio in the Home app.
• Hate juggling multiple apps.

…then Arlo + HomeKit might feel half-baked. In that case, consider a native HomeKit camera or stick with Arlo’s ecosystem.

My advice? Start small. Try adding one Arlo camera to HomeKit. Test it for a week. If you love the Siri integration but hate the app-switching, you’ll know what to do next. And remember: Smart home tech should make life easier—not more complicated. Whether you choose Arlo, HomeKit, or both, pick what works for you. Happy automating!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras work with HomeKit?

Yes, select Arlo camera models (like Ultra, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Essential series) work with Apple HomeKit via HomeKit Secure Video. You’ll need an Apple hub (HomePod, Apple TV, or iPad) and an iCloud+ subscription to enable the integration.

Which Arlo cameras are compatible with HomeKit?

Arlo Ultra, Pro 3, Pro 4, and Essential wired/wireless cameras support HomeKit. Older models like Arlo Pro 2 or Go do not offer native HomeKit compatibility. Always check the product specifications before purchasing.

How do I set up Arlo cameras with HomeKit?

To connect Arlo cameras to HomeKit, open the Home app on your iOS device, scan the HomeKit setup code on your Arlo camera, and follow the prompts. Ensure your camera firmware is updated and your iCloud+ plan supports HomeKit Secure Video.

Can I view Arlo cameras in the Apple Home app?

Yes, once paired with HomeKit, Arlo cameras appear directly in the Apple Home app. You can stream live video, receive motion notifications, and use Siri voice commands like “Show me the front door camera.”

Does Arlo HomeKit integration support two-way audio?

Yes, HomeKit-compatible Arlo cameras support two-way audio through the Home app. You can talk to visitors or pets using your iPhone, iPad, or HomePod as an intercom.

Is a paid subscription required for Arlo and HomeKit to work together?

Yes, HomeKit Secure Video requires an iCloud+ subscription (starting at $0.99/month) to store encrypted video recordings. Arlo’s own subscription (Arlo Secure) is optional but recommended for advanced features like activity zones and cloud backups.