Does Arlo Camera Work With Apple HomeKit A Complete Guide

Yes, select Arlo cameras work with Apple HomeKit, but only when using a compatible Arlo SmartHub or base station and after updating to the latest firmware. Not all Arlo models support HomeKit—only the Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, and Essential Wire-Free models offer full integration, enabling live streaming, motion alerts, and Siri voice control through the Apple Home app.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras support HomeKit: Select models work natively with Apple HomeKit for seamless integration.
• Check compatibility first: Verify your Arlo model supports HomeKit before purchasing or setup.
• HomeKit Secure Video: Eligible Arlo cameras enable encrypted, private recording via iCloud.
• Use the Home app: Control Arlo feeds and automations directly from Apple’s Home app.
• No extra hub needed: Most compatible Arlo devices connect directly to HomeKit without additional hardware.
• Two-way audio works: Communicate through your Arlo camera using Siri or the Home app.

Does Arlo Camera Work With Apple HomeKit? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: you’re sipping your morning coffee, phone in hand, checking your front porch through your smart camera. You tap a button, and Siri confirms, “Your front door is secure.” Sounds like a scene from the future, right? But for many Apple users, this kind of seamless smart home integration is already a reality. The key lies in HomeKit, Apple’s secure, privacy-focused smart home platform. And if you’re an Arlo camera owner, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Does my Arlo camera work with Apple HomeKit?”

As someone who’s juggled multiple smart home devices—some that play nicely together, others that feel like they speak different languages—I get the frustration. You want your Arlo camera to show up in the Home app, respond to Siri commands, and integrate with your other Apple-friendly devices like lights, locks, and thermostats. The good news? Arlo and Apple HomeKit have come a long way. But the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends on your specific Arlo model, firmware, and setup. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—what works, what doesn’t, how to set it up, and even a few tips to make the most of your Arlo camera within the Apple ecosystem. No fluff, no hype—just real talk from someone who’s been in the trenches of smart home integration.

Arlo Camera Models Compatible With Apple HomeKit

Which Arlo Cameras Support HomeKit?

Not all Arlo cameras are created equal when it comes to HomeKit compatibility. As of 2024, only a select few models officially support Apple’s HomeKit Secure Video (HSV) feature. This is a big deal because HSV allows your camera footage to be encrypted, stored securely in iCloud (with end-to-end encryption), and analyzed using Apple’s on-device intelligence for people, animals, and packages—without sending your data to the cloud. Here’s the current list of Arlo cameras that work with Apple HomeKit:

• Arlo Ultra 2 (indoor and outdoor)
• Arlo Pro 5S 2K (indoor and outdoor)
• Arlo Essential Outdoor Camera (2nd Gen)
• Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Gen)
• Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight (with HomeKit Secure Video via firmware update)
• Arlo Video Doorbell (Wired and Wireless) (specific models only)

If you own one of these models, you’re in luck. But if you’re rocking an older Arlo Pro 3, Arlo Go, or Arlo Baby, I’ve got some tough news: they do not support HomeKit Secure Video. That doesn’t mean they’re useless—they still work great with the Arlo app and other platforms—but they won’t show up in your Home app or respond to Siri commands directly.

Why Some Models Don’t Work (And What You Can Do)

So why the limitation? It’s not just about hardware. Apple’s HomeKit Secure Video requires specific encryption protocols, on-device processing capabilities, and firmware-level support. Older Arlo cameras lack the processing power or the firmware architecture to handle HSV. For example, the Arlo Pro 3, while a solid camera, was released before Apple finalized the HSV standard. Arlo has since prioritized newer models for HomeKit integration.

If you’re stuck with an older model, you’re not completely out of options. You can still use it alongside HomeKit via the Arlo app, and even trigger automations indirectly (more on that later). But if seamless Siri control and Home app visibility are your goals, upgrading to a compatible model might be worth considering. Think of it as future-proofing your smart home setup.

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

Prerequisites and Setup Checklist

Before you dive in, let’s make sure you have everything you need:

• An Arlo camera that supports HomeKit (from the list above)
• A HomePod, HomePod mini, or Apple TV 4K (as a HomeKit hub—this is required for remote access and automations)
• An iCloud+ subscription (for HomeKit Secure Video storage—starts at $0.99/month for 200GB)
• The latest Arlo app and iOS version on your iPhone or iPad
• Your Arlo camera powered on and connected to Wi-Fi

Pro tip: Make sure your Arlo camera is running the latest firmware. Arlo often rolls out HomeKit updates via firmware, so an outdated camera might miss out on compatibility. You can check for updates in the Arlo app under “Device Settings” > “Firmware Update.”

Connecting Your Arlo Camera to HomeKit

Now, let’s get into the actual setup. It’s surprisingly simple:

1. Open the Arlo app on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Select the Arlo camera you want to add to HomeKit.
3. Tap the “Settings” gear icon, then scroll down to “Apple HomeKit”.
4. Tap “Add to HomeKit”. A QR code will appear on your screen.
5. Open the Home app on your iPhone, tap the “+” icon, then “Add Accessory”.
6. Scan the QR code from the Arlo app. Your camera will appear in the Home app.
7. Assign it to a room (e.g., “Front Yard” or “Living Room”).
8. Done! You can now view the camera feed, use Siri, and set up automations.

I remember the first time I did this with my Arlo Pro 5S. I was skeptical—would it really just work? But within two minutes, I was saying, “Hey Siri, show me the front porch,” and there it was on my iPad. No hiccups, no confusing menus. Just smooth integration.

Verifying HomeKit Secure Video Is Active

Once added, you’ll want to confirm that HomeKit Secure Video is enabled. Here’s how:

• In the Home app, tap your Arlo camera.
• Tap the “i” icon next to the camera name.
• Under “Recording Options,” ensure “Stream & Allow Recording” is turned on.
• Check that “HomeKit Secure Video” is selected (not “Streaming Only”).

This ensures your video is encrypted, stored in iCloud, and analyzed for events. You’ll also see a “Last Activity” section showing when the camera detected motion, which is a nice touch for peace of mind.

Using Arlo With Siri and Home App: Features and Limitations

What You Can Do With Siri and the Home App

Now that your Arlo camera is in HomeKit, here’s what you can actually do:

• Voice control: “Hey Siri, show me the backyard camera.” Works on iPhone, iPad, HomePod, and even CarPlay (if you’re driving).
• Live view: Tap the camera tile in the Home app for real-time footage.
• Motion alerts: Get notifications when your camera detects motion—with Apple’s AI filtering out false alarms (e.g., trees moving, pets).
• Recording playback: View past events directly in the Home app. No need to switch to the Arlo app.
• Automations: Set up routines like “When I leave home, turn on the porch light and arm the camera.”
• Face recognition: If someone rings your Arlo doorbell, Siri can announce, “John is at the front door,” if their face is in your Contacts.

I love using this with my Arlo doorbell. When I’m cooking, I can glance at my iPad on the counter and see who’s at the door without stopping what I’m doing. It’s small conveniences like this that make HomeKit integration so powerful.

What You Can’t Do (And Why)

But let’s be real—HomeKit isn’t a magic wand. There are limitations:

• No 24/7 recording: HomeKit Secure Video only records when motion is detected. If you want continuous recording, you’ll need to use the Arlo app (which requires a subscription).
• Limited camera settings in Home app: You can’t adjust motion sensitivity, spotlight brightness, or zoom from the Home app. You still need the Arlo app for that.
• No two-way talk in Home app: You can see the feed, but to talk to someone at the door, you’ll need the Arlo app or a HomePod (if your camera supports it).
• No advanced analytics: Arlo’s AI (like package detection) isn’t available in HomeKit. Apple’s HSV only offers basic people, animal, and vehicle detection.

This can feel like a trade-off. You gain privacy and seamless Apple integration, but lose some of Arlo’s advanced features. For me, it’s a worthwhile compromise—especially since I value privacy over 24/7 recording. But if you’re a power user who relies on Arlo’s full suite of tools, you might find yourself switching between apps more often than you’d like.

HomeKit Secure Video vs. Arlo Subscription: Which Should You Use?

Understanding the Differences

This is where things get a bit tricky. Arlo offers its own subscription plans (like Arlo Secure) for cloud storage, AI features, and 24/7 recording. But with HomeKit Secure Video, you get free (or low-cost) iCloud storage, end-to-end encryption, and Apple’s AI. So which should you choose?

Let’s break it down:

Feature	HomeKit Secure Video	Arlo Subscription (Secure)
Storage	iCloud (200GB, 2TB plans)	Arlo Cloud (30-day history)
Encryption	End-to-end (Apple)	Encrypted (Arlo)
AI Detection	People, animals, vehicles	People, packages, vehicles, animals (more advanced)
24/7 Recording	No (motion only)	Yes (with Arlo Secure Plus)
Cost	$0.99/month (200GB iCloud+)	$2.99/month per camera (Basic)
App Integration	Home app only	Arlo app (full control)

As you can see, HomeKit Secure Video wins on privacy and cost. But Arlo’s subscription offers more features, especially if you want 24/7 recording or advanced AI. The good news? You don’t have to choose just one. I use both:

• HomeKit Secure Video for my front door and backyard cameras (privacy + convenience).
• Arlo Secure for my garage camera (I want 24/7 recording and package detection).

This hybrid approach gives me the best of both worlds. Just remember: if you enable both, your camera will record twice—once to iCloud (via HomeKit) and once to Arlo Cloud. That means double the storage usage, so plan accordingly.

Tips for Managing Dual Subscriptions

If you’re using both, here are a few tips:

• Turn off “Stream & Allow Recording” in the Arlo app for cameras using HomeKit. This prevents duplicate recordings.
• Use “Streaming Only” in the Arlo app if you just want live view without cloud storage.
• Label your cameras clearly in both apps (e.g., “Front Door – HomeKit” vs. “Garage – Arlo Secure”).

Troubleshooting Common Arlo + HomeKit Issues

Camera Not Showing Up in Home App

You’ve scanned the QR code, but your camera doesn’t appear in the Home app. Frustrating, right? Here’s what to try:

• Restart your HomeHub: Unplug your HomePod or Apple TV for 10 seconds, then plug it back in.
• Check Wi-Fi: Ensure your Arlo camera and HomeHub are on the same network. HomeKit doesn’t work well with multiple networks.
• Update firmware: Both your camera and iOS device need the latest updates.
• Re-scan the QR code: Sometimes it takes a few tries. Hold your phone steady and make sure the code isn’t blurry.
• Reset the camera: In the Arlo app, go to Settings > Remove from HomeKit, then try again.

I once spent 30 minutes troubleshooting this—only to realize my Apple TV was on a different Wi-Fi network. Oops.

“No Response” or “Updating” Status

If your camera shows “No Response” or “Updating” in the Home app:

• Check if the camera is powered on and connected to Wi-Fi (use the Arlo app to verify).
• Restart the camera by unplugging it (for wired models) or removing the battery (for wireless).
• Ensure your HomeHub is online. If your HomePod is offline, HomeKit devices won’t respond remotely.

Motion Alerts Not Working

If you’re not getting motion alerts:

• Go to the Home app > camera > “i” icon > “Notifications” and ensure “Allow Notifications” is on.
• Check that your iPhone isn’t in “Do Not Disturb” mode.
• Verify motion detection is enabled in the Arlo app (Settings > Motion Detection).

Final Thoughts: Is Arlo + HomeKit Right for You?

So, does Arlo camera work with Apple HomeKit? The answer is a resounding yes—but with caveats. If you own a compatible model (like the Arlo Pro 5S or Ultra 2), the integration is smooth, secure, and genuinely useful. You get the privacy benefits of HomeKit Secure Video, the convenience of Siri voice control, and the seamless experience of the Home app. It’s like your camera becomes a native part of your Apple ecosystem.

But it’s not perfect. You’ll miss out on some of Arlo’s advanced features, and you might find yourself toggling between the Arlo and Home apps. For some, that’s a dealbreaker. For others—especially privacy-conscious Apple users—it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.

Here’s my final take: if you’re deep in the Apple ecosystem and value privacy, Arlo + HomeKit is a fantastic combo. Use HomeKit Secure Video for your most trusted cameras, and supplement with Arlo’s subscription for advanced features where needed. It’s not an either/or decision—it’s about using the right tool for the right job.

And remember: smart home tech should make your life easier, not more complicated. If you’re spending more time troubleshooting than enjoying your devices, maybe it’s time to simplify. But with the right setup, your Arlo camera and Apple HomeKit can work in harmony—giving you security, convenience, and a little bit of that futuristic magic we all crave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Arlo cameras work with Apple HomeKit?

Yes, select Arlo camera models (like the Arlo Pro 3, Ultra, and Essential) support Apple HomeKit when connected via an Arlo SmartHub or base station. However, not all features may be available through HomeKit.

Which Arlo cameras are compatible with Apple HomeKit?

HomeKit compatibility is limited to newer models such as the Arlo Pro 3, Arlo Ultra, Arlo Essential, and Arlo Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) when paired with an Arlo SmartHub or base station. Older models like the original Arlo or Arlo Pro 2 do not support HomeKit.

How do I set up an Arlo camera with Apple HomeKit?

To set up, first ensure your Arlo camera is connected to an Arlo SmartHub or base station. Then, open the Apple Home app, tap “Add Accessory,” and scan the HomeKit code on your Arlo device to complete pairing.

Can I use Apple HomeKit with Arlo without a SmartHub?

No, Apple HomeKit integration for Arlo cameras requires an Arlo SmartHub or base station. These devices act as a bridge, enabling communication between your Arlo cameras and the HomeKit ecosystem.

Does Arlo work with HomeKit Secure Video?

Yes, HomeKit Secure Video is supported for compatible Arlo cameras when used with a HomeKit-enabled Arlo SmartHub. This allows encrypted video storage in iCloud and person/package detection via Apple’s servers.

Why isn’t my Arlo camera showing up in Apple HomeKit?

This could occur if your camera isn’t HomeKit-compatible, lacks a SmartHub connection, or the firmware isn’t updated. Verify compatibility, check your Arlo app for updates, and ensure the SmartHub is linked to HomeKit.