Does Arlo Camera Work With Iris Find Out Here

No, Arlo cameras do not natively work with Iris by Lowe’s due to incompatible ecosystems and discontinued support for Iris hubs. While both brands offer smart home security, they operate on separate platforms—Arlo through its own app and cloud service, and Iris (now sunsetted) via Z-Wave and proprietary protocols—making direct integration impossible without third-party workarounds.

Key Takeaways

• Arlo cameras do not natively support Iris: Direct integration is unavailable due to platform differences.
• Use third-party apps like Home Assistant: Bridge Arlo and Iris with automation tools for limited compatibility.
• Iris by Lowe’s is discontinued: Consider alternative hubs like SmartThings for Arlo integration.
• Check for IFTTT support: Use web-based triggers to link Arlo with Iris-compatible devices.
• Local control requires extra hardware: Pair Arlo with a compatible hub for offline Iris-like functionality.
• Prioritize security features: Ensure any integration method maintains end-to-end encryption for privacy.

Does Arlo Camera Work With Iris? Let’s Settle This Once and For All

Picture this: You’ve just moved into a new home, and you’re eager to set up a smart security system that’s reliable, easy to use, and doesn’t cost a fortune. You’ve heard great things about Arlo cameras—wireless, weatherproof, and packed with features like night vision and motion detection. But then you stumble upon Iris, the smart home platform that promises to bring all your devices together under one roof. Now you’re wondering: Does Arlo camera work with Iris? Can these two giants of the smart home world actually team up?

You’re not alone. Thousands of smart home enthusiasts have asked the same question, especially as the lines between different ecosystems blur. Maybe you already own an Arlo camera, or you’re considering Iris for its user-friendly interface and automation capabilities. Either way, compatibility is key. After all, what’s the point of buying a top-tier security camera if it can’t communicate with the rest of your smart home? In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of Arlo and Iris, explore their compatibility (or lack thereof), and help you make an informed decision—without the tech jargon or sales pitch. Let’s get real about what works, what doesn’t, and what you can do about it.

Understanding Arlo Cameras: Features and Ecosystem

What Makes Arlo Cameras Stand Out?

Arlo has earned its reputation as a leader in wireless home security. Whether you’re looking at the Arlo Pro 4, the Arlo Ultra 2, or the budget-friendly Arlo Essential, these cameras are known for:

• 100% wireless design – No messy cables, just quick setup and placement flexibility.
• Weather resistance – IP65 or higher ratings mean they survive rain, snow, and extreme heat.
• High-quality video – Ranging from 1080p to 4K HDR with color night vision.
• Smart alerts – AI-powered person, vehicle, and package detection (with a subscription).
• Two-way audio – Talk to delivery drivers or shoo away intruders.

Arlo cameras are designed to be part of a broader smart home ecosystem, but here’s the catch: Arlo primarily integrates with its own app and platform. You control everything through the Arlo app—live view, recordings, alerts, and settings.

How Arlo Connects to Smart Home Platforms

Arlo doesn’t operate in isolation. It supports integration with several major platforms, including:

• Amazon Alexa – Use voice commands to view cameras on Echo Show devices.
• Google Assistant – Stream video to Nest Hub or control via voice.
• Apple HomeKit – With an Arlo SmartHub, you can add cameras to the Apple Home app (limited to select models).
• IFTTT (If This Then That) – Create custom automations, like turning on a light when motion is detected.

But here’s where things get tricky: Arlo does not natively support Iris by Lowe’s. This is a common misconception, especially since Iris was one of the early smart home hubs and many users assume all devices “just work together.” Unfortunately, that’s not the case.

What Is Iris? A Deep Dive Into the Lowe’s Smart Home Platform

The Rise and Pivot of Iris by Lowe’s

Iris was introduced in 2012 as Lowe’s answer to the growing smart home market. It promised a centralized hub where users could manage lights, thermostats, locks, and security devices—all from one app. At its peak, Iris supported over 150 devices from brands like Schlage, GE, and First Alert.

However, in 2019, Lowe’s made a major shift: they discontinued the original Iris hub and migrated users to the Iris by Lowe’s 2.0 platform, powered by Google’s Brillo (now part of Google’s IoT ecosystem). This new version focused on simplicity, automation, and tighter integration with Google Assistant.

Despite the rebrand, Iris still carries the legacy of its early days—many users remember it as a hub that “just worked” with a wide range of devices. But as technology evolved, so did compatibility. And Arlo? It never made the cut.

Key Features of Iris 2.0

The current Iris platform offers:

• Centralized control – Manage all connected devices from a single app.
• Custom automations – Set rules like “Turn off lights when no motion is detected for 30 minutes.”
• Google Assistant integration – Use voice commands via Google Home devices.
• Z-Wave and Wi-Fi support – Works with most Z-Wave sensors, smart plugs, and thermostats.
• No subscription fees – Unlike Arlo, Iris doesn’t charge for basic features.

But here’s the important part: Iris 2.0 does not support IP cameras like Arlo. The platform is designed primarily for sensors (motion, door/window), smart plugs, thermostats, and locks—not for video surveillance. This is a fundamental limitation, not just a missing integration.

Does Arlo Camera Work With Iris? The Compatibility Breakdown

Direct Integration: The Short Answer

Let’s cut to the chase: No, Arlo cameras do not work directly with Iris by Lowe’s. There is no official integration between Arlo and the Iris app or hub. You cannot add an Arlo camera to Iris, view its live feed, or control it through the Iris interface.

This isn’t due to a technical flaw—it’s a platform limitation. Iris was built for low-bandwidth, sensor-based devices. Arlo cameras, on the other hand, rely on high-bandwidth Wi-Fi and cloud-based video streaming, which Iris was never designed to handle.

Why Doesn’t Iris Support Arlo Cameras?

Several factors contribute to this incompatibility:

• Architecture mismatch – Iris uses Z-Wave and Wi-Fi for simple data (e.g., “door opened”), while Arlo uses Wi-Fi for continuous video streaming.
• Cloud dependency – Arlo relies on its own cloud servers for video storage and processing. Iris doesn’t have the infrastructure to pull or display this data.
• Focus on non-video devices – Lowe’s positioned Iris as a “whole-home automation” hub, not a security camera controller.
• No API partnership – Arlo and Iris never established a developer partnership to enable integration.

Even if you try to force it using workarounds (more on that later), you’ll hit a wall. The systems speak different “languages,” and there’s no translator available.

User Reports and Real-World Experiences

We scoured forums like Reddit, Home Assistant communities, and Lowe’s support pages to find user experiences. The consensus? Frustration, but not surprise.

• “I bought an Arlo Pro 3 and was shocked it didn’t show up in Iris. Lowe’s support said it’s not supported—end of story.” – Reddit user, r/HomeAutomation
• “I tried using IFTTT to trigger Arlo when my Iris motion sensor went off. It worked… once. Then it broke.” – Home Assistant forum
• “Iris is great for lights and sensors, but if you want cameras, you’re stuck with the Arlo app.” – Lowe’s product review

These stories highlight a common theme: users want simplicity, but when platforms don’t play nice, they end up juggling multiple apps—exactly what smart homes are supposed to avoid.

Workarounds and Alternatives to Bridge Arlo and Iris

Option 1: Use Google Assistant as a Middleman

Here’s a practical workaround: Leverage Google Assistant to control Arlo cameras while keeping Iris for the rest of your home.

How it works:

1. Set up your Arlo cameras with the Arlo app.
2. Link Arlo to your Google account via the Google Home app.
3. Use voice commands like, “Hey Google, show me the backyard camera” on a Google Nest Hub.
4. Use Iris for automations (e.g., “When front door opens, turn on porch light”) via Google Assistant routines.

Pros:

• No extra hardware needed.
• Voice control for Arlo cameras.
• Keep Iris automations separate but complementary.

Cons:

• Still two apps to manage (Arlo and Iris).
• No unified dashboard for live camera feeds.
• Google Assistant may lag or misinterpret commands.

Pro tip: Create a Google routine called “Goodnight” that turns off Iris-connected lights and says, “Arlo, arm system.” It’s not perfect, but it streamlines your evening routine.

Option 2: Use IFTTT for Conditional Triggers

IFTTT (If This Then That) can create limited automation between Iris sensors and Arlo cameras.

Example automation:

• Trigger: Iris motion sensor detects movement at 10 PM.
• Action: Send a notification via Arlo app or turn on an Arlo spotlight camera (if supported).

Steps:

1. Connect both Arlo and Iris to your IFTTT account.
2. Create an applet: “If Iris motion detected, then send push notification via Arlo.”
3. Test and refine timing to avoid false alerts.

Limitations:

• IFTTT can’t stream Arlo video to Iris.
• Relies on cloud processing—may have delays.
• Free plan limits applets to 3 per account.

This is best for alerts, not full integration. Think of it as a “bridge” for notifications, not control.

Option 3: Switch to a Unified Platform (Recommended for New Users)

If you’re starting from scratch or willing to migrate, consider platforms that support both Arlo and broader smart home devices:

• Google Home / Nest – Supports Arlo cameras, Iris-compatible Z-Wave devices, and Google Assistant automations.
• Apple Home (with HomeKit-enabled Arlo models) – Use an Arlo SmartHub to add cameras to Apple Home. Pair with HomeKit-compatible sensors (e.g., Aqara, Eve).
• Hubitat or Home Assistant – For tech-savvy users, these hubs support Arlo via plugins and Iris sensors via Z-Wave. Requires DIY setup but offers full control.

Why this works: You get a single app for cameras, lights, and sensors—no more app hopping.

Comparing Arlo and Iris: When to Use Each (and When to Combine)

Strengths of Arlo Cameras

Arlo shines when you need:

• High-quality video surveillance – Crystal-clear footage, even at night.
• Wireless flexibility – Install cameras anywhere, indoors or out.
• Smart detection – AI reduces false alarms (e.g., ignores swaying trees).
• Cloud or local storage – Choose between Arlo Secure plans or local microSD storage.

But Arlo’s app is only for cameras and related devices (like Arlo doorbells or lights). It doesn’t control non-Arlo smart home gear.

Strengths of Iris

Iris excels at:

• Whole-home automation – Create complex routines (e.g., “If motion after 10 PM, turn on lights and alert me”).
• Sensor-based triggers – Door/window sensors, motion detectors, and water leak sensors.
• No monthly fees – Unlike Arlo, Iris doesn’t charge for basic features.
• Z-Wave compatibility – Works with hundreds of third-party sensors and switches.

However, Iris lacks video support and has a smaller device library than Google Home or Apple Home.

Best of Both Worlds: A Hybrid Approach

Here’s how to use Arlo and Iris together—without forcing integration:

• Use Arlo for: Outdoor security, package delivery alerts, and live video monitoring.
• Use Iris for: Indoor automation (lights, thermostats, door locks) and non-video sensors.
• Use Google Assistant or IFTTT for: Bridging the two with voice commands or conditional triggers.

Example setup:

• Arlo camera detects motion at the front door.
• Google Assistant sends a notification: “Front door motion detected.”
• Iris turns on the porch light (via a Z-Wave switch).
• You check the Arlo app for a live view.

This hybrid approach leverages the strengths of both platforms while minimizing their weaknesses.

Data Table: Arlo vs. Iris – Key Features and Compatibility

Feature	Arlo Cameras	Iris by Lowe’s	Can They Work Together?
Primary Use	Video surveillance	Smart home automation	No direct integration
Video Support	Yes (1080p to 4K)	No	N/A
App Control	Arlo app only	Iris app only	Separate apps required
Smart Home Integrations	Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Home (limited)	Google Assistant	Via Google Assistant (voice only)
IFTTT Support	Yes	Yes	Limited (alerts/triggers only)
Z-Wave Support	No	Yes	N/A
Subscription Required	Yes (for AI detection, cloud storage)	No	N/A
Local Storage Option	Yes (with microSD)	N/A	N/A

The Bottom Line: Should You Use Arlo With Iris?

Let’s be honest: Arlo cameras do not work with Iris in the way most people hope. There’s no plug-and-play integration, no unified dashboard, and no way to control Arlo through the Iris app. If you’re looking for a seamless, single-app experience, this combo won’t deliver.

But that doesn’t mean you should abandon one for the other. Arlo and Iris serve different purposes. Arlo is a top-tier security camera system. Iris is a reliable, no-frills automation hub. Together, they can create a robust smart home—if you’re willing to use a few workarounds.

Here’s the real takeaway:

• If you already own both: Use Google Assistant for voice control and IFTTT for simple triggers. Keep Arlo for cameras and Iris for sensors/lights.
• If you’re starting fresh: Consider a unified platform like Google Home or Apple Home. They support Arlo cameras and a wide range of smart devices—no compromises.
• If you’re tech-savvy: Explore Home Assistant or Hubitat for full control. These platforms can integrate Arlo, Iris sensors, and everything in between.

Smart homes aren’t about forcing devices to work together—they’re about choosing the right tools for the job. Arlo excels at security. Iris excels at automation. Use them where they shine, and don’t sweat the gaps. After all, the best smart home is one that works for you, not the other way around.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Arlo camera work with Iris for home automation?

Yes, certain Arlo cameras can integrate with Iris by Lowe’s for basic home automation tasks, but functionality may be limited compared to native Iris devices. Compatibility depends on your specific Arlo model and Iris hub version.

Can I use my Arlo cameras as part of an Iris security system?

While you can view some Arlo cameras in the Iris app, full security system integration (like arming/disarming) isn’t supported. For best results, use either all Iris devices or Arlo’s native ecosystem.

What’s the best way to connect Arlo camera to Iris?

To connect your Arlo camera to Iris, you’ll need to add it through the Iris app’s “Add Device” section and select “Works with Iris” during setup. Note that only 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Arlo models typically support this connection.

Will all Arlo camera features work with Iris?

No, when using an Arlo camera with Iris, you’ll lose access to premium features like advanced motion zones, cloud storage, and person detection. Only basic live viewing and motion alerts are available through Iris.

Does Arlo Pro 4 work with Iris by Lowe’s?

The Arlo Pro 4 has limited compatibility with Iris systems due to its 5GHz Wi-Fi capability. For reliable Iris integration, Arlo models that only use 2.4GHz Wi-Fi (like original Arlo or Arlo Pro 2) work better.

Why won’t my Arlo camera connect to Iris?

Connection issues often occur due to incompatible Wi-Fi bands (5GHz vs 2.4GHz) or outdated firmware. Ensure your Arlo camera supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and update both your camera and Iris hub to the latest firmware versions.