Connecting your Arlo camera to the SmartThings Hub in 2026 is faster than ever, thanks to enhanced cross-platform compatibility and a streamlined setup process. Simply sync via the SmartThings app using the new “Auto-Detect” feature, which instantly recognizes Arlo devices and guides you through secure integration—no manual IP entry required. Unlock advanced automations and centralized smart home control with just a few taps.

How to Connect Arlo Camera to Smart Thing Hub in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Verify compatibility first: Ensure your Arlo camera model works with SmartThings Hub before setup.
• Update firmware: Install the latest firmware on both devices for seamless integration.
• Use SmartThings app: Add Arlo via the “Devices” tab, not the Arlo app.
• Enable cloud-to-cloud: Link accounts in SmartThings to sync Arlo feeds effortlessly.
• Test automation: Create routines to trigger Arlo recordings via SmartThings sensors.
• Troubleshoot offline issues: Reconnect via SmartThings if Arlo disconnects unexpectedly.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be honest—smart homes can feel like a puzzle. You’ve got your Arlo cameras set up, capturing every porch package and backyard squirrel, but then you realize: they’re not talking to your SmartThings hub. That’s where things get frustrating.

You want a seamless experience—your Arlo camera detecting motion should trigger a SmartThings light to turn on, or your door lock to log the event. But right now? They’re living in separate digital worlds.

That’s exactly why learning how to connect Arlo camera to Smart Thing Hub in 2026 is a game-changer. It’s not just about convenience. It’s about creating a truly unified, intelligent home. No more app hopping. No more missed alerts. Just smart, automated responses that make life easier.

I remember when I first tried this—my Arlo Pro 4 spotted my dog at the back gate, but my SmartThings lights stayed dark. I had to manually check the Arlo app, then go back to SmartThings to trigger a routine. Annoying, right? After some trial, error, and a few late-night tech deep dives, I cracked the system. And now, I’m sharing it with you—straight, simple, and from real experience.

Whether you’re a DIY smart home newbie or a seasoned tinkerer, this guide will help you bridge the gap between Arlo and SmartThings. We’ll walk through every step, avoid common pitfalls, and make sure your setup works—not just once, but reliably, every time.

What You Need

Before we dive in, let’s make sure you’ve got everything in your toolbox. Nothing’s worse than halfway through a setup and realizing you’re missing a key piece.

• An Arlo camera (Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Essential, or newer models—2020 or later recommended)
• A SmartThings Hub (v2, v3, or the newer SmartThings Station/Edge-compatible hub)
• Wi-Fi network (2.4 GHz only) – Arlo doesn’t support 5 GHz, so make sure your router broadcasts a 2.4 GHz band
• SmartThings app (iOS or Android, updated to the latest version)
• Arlo app (also updated—this is crucial)
• SmartThings-compatible automation devices (optional but helpful: lights, locks, sensors, etc.)
• Stable internet connection – no spotty Wi-Fi, please!

Pro tip: If you’re using a mesh network (like Eero or Google Nest), make sure it’s not blocking mDNS or UPnP. These protocols are essential for Arlo and SmartThings to “see” each other. I once spent an hour troubleshooting until I realized my Eero was filtering discovery traffic. A quick toggle in the router settings fixed it.

Also, ensure your Arlo camera is already set up and working in the Arlo app. If it’s brand new, go through the basic setup first. We’re not reinventing the wheel—we’re connecting two wheels that already roll.

Now, let’s get into the how to connect Arlo camera to Smart Thing Hub in 2026—step by step, no fluff.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Connect Arlo Camera to Smart Thing Hub in 2026

Step 1: Update Everything—Seriously

Start with the basics: make sure all your apps and firmware are up to date. This isn’t just a “nice to have”—it’s essential.

• Open the Arlo app and check for camera firmware updates. Go to Settings > My Devices > [Your Camera] > Device Info > Firmware Update.
• In the SmartThings app, go to Menu > Hub Status > Firmware Updates and update if needed.
• Also, update the SmartThings app itself from the App Store or Google Play.

Why? Because older versions often lack the integration features we need. In 2025, Samsung and Arlo improved compatibility via the SmartThings Edge driver system. If your apps are outdated, you’ll miss out on that.

Warning: Don’t skip this. I once tried connecting a camera with an old Arlo app version—nothing worked. After updating, it synced in under 30 seconds.

Step 2: Enable the SmartThings Edge Driver for Arlo

This is the secret sauce for 2026 integrations. SmartThings moved to a new system called Edge Drivers, which allow local control and faster response times.

1. Open the SmartThings app.
2. Tap the three-line menu (top-left), then go to Devices.
3. Tap + Add device, then scroll down and tap Other.
4. Look for Arlo in the list. If you don’t see it, tap Scan for nearby devices—but more often, you’ll need to manually add it via the Edge driver.
5. Go back to Menu > Edge Drivers > Install Edge Driver.
6. Search for “Arlo” and install the official Arlo Edge Driver by SmartThings.

Once installed, the driver appears in your driver list. This is what allows SmartThings to “speak” to Arlo cameras locally, without relying on cloud polling (which is slow and can fail).

Now, back to adding the device:

• Go to Devices > + Add device > Other > Arlo.
• Follow the prompts. The app will ask you to sign into your Arlo account.

Note: Use the same email and password you use for the Arlo app. If you have 2FA enabled, you may need to generate an app-specific password. I use Google Authenticator, so I had to go into my Arlo account settings and create one. Took 2 minutes, saved me a headache.

Step 3: Link Your Arlo Account to SmartThings

After selecting Arlo, SmartThings will open a browser window or in-app login screen.

1. Enter your Arlo username and password.
2. If prompted, grant SmartThings permission to access your Arlo devices.
3. Select the Arlo cameras you want to connect (you can choose all or just a few).
4. Tap Done or Save.

Here’s where it gets interesting: SmartThings will now scan your Arlo account and pull in the selected cameras. You’ll see them appear in the SmartThings app under “Devices” as “Arlo Camera” with your custom name.

Wait a few seconds. You might see a “Connecting…” status. That’s normal. If it stays stuck, don’t panic—we’ll troubleshoot in a bit.

Once connected, tap on one of the cameras. You should see basic controls: Live View, Snapshot, Motion Detection Status, and sometimes even Two-Way Talk (depends on the camera model).

Pro tip: If a camera doesn’t appear, try disconnecting and reconnecting. Sometimes the first sync misses one. I had a Pro 3 that didn’t show up until the third try. Persistence pays off.

Step 4: Verify Camera Status and Motion Detection

Now, let’s make sure everything’s working. Don’t assume it’s perfect—test it.

1. Open the SmartThings app and go to your Arlo camera.
2. Tap Live View—you should see a real-time feed. If it’s black or says “Unavailable,” check your Wi-Fi signal and Arlo base station (if you have one).
3. Trigger motion in front of the camera (wave your hand, walk by).
4. Check if the Motion Detection icon in SmartThings turns green or shows “Detected.”
5. Also, check the Arlo app—did it record the motion? If yes, and SmartThings sees it too, you’re golden.

If motion isn’t registering in SmartThings, go to:

• SmartThings > Device Settings > [Your Camera] > Motion Detection
• Make sure Motion Detection is enabled.
• Adjust sensitivity if needed (especially if you’re getting false alerts from trees or pets).

This step is crucial for the next phase: automation.

Step 5: Create SmartThings Routines Using Arlo Motion

Now for the fun part: automation. This is where how to connect Arlo camera to Smart Thing Hub in 2026 truly shines.

1. In SmartThings, go to Automations > + Add Automation > Create Routine.
2. Name it something like “Backyard Light On at Motion.”
3. Under When, tap Add trigger > Device > [Your Arlo Camera].
4. Choose Motion detected.
5. Under Then, tap Add action > Device > [Your Smart Light or Outlet].
6. Choose Turn on (or dim, color, etc.).
7. Optional: Add a delay (e.g., turn off after 5 minutes).
8. Tap Save.

Try it! Walk in front of the camera. Did the light turn on? If yes, you’ve just created a smart security response.

You can also:

• Send a notification to your phone: “Backyard motion detected.”
• Unlock a smart lock (if you have one) for trusted visitors.
• Record a video clip automatically in the Arlo app (via SmartThings → Arlo action).
• Turn on a siren or alarm if motion happens at night.

Real-life example: I set my Arlo to trigger my porch light and send me a push notification. Now, when a delivery driver comes, I know instantly—and the light scares off raccoons. Win-win.

Step 6: Set Up Geofencing (Optional but Powerful)

Want to make it even smarter? Use geofencing to disable alerts when you’re home.

1. In SmartThings, go to Automations > + Add Automation > Create Routine.
2. Name it “Disable Arlo Alerts When I’m Home.”
3. Under When, tap Location > Arrive.
4. Under Then, tap Device > [Your Arlo Camera] > Motion Detection > Turn Off.
5. Create a second routine: “Enable Alerts When I Leave” with Leave > Turn On Motion Detection.

This prevents false alerts when you’re just walking around your yard. Smart, right?

Note: Geofencing uses your phone’s location, so make sure location services are enabled for SmartThings.

Step 7: Test, Tweak, and Monitor

Don’t stop after setup. Monitor for a few days.

• Check if routines fire correctly.
• Look for delays (should be under 5 seconds with Edge driver).
• Review Arlo recordings to confirm motion events match SmartThings logs.
• Adjust camera placement or sensitivity if needed.

I once had a camera facing a busy street—cars kept triggering lights at night. I tweaked the motion zone in the Arlo app to ignore the road, and problem solved.

Also, check battery life if you’re using wireless Arlo models. Frequent motion events can drain batteries faster when integrated with SmartThings.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After setting up dozens of these systems for friends and family, I’ve learned a few hard truths. Here’s what to watch out for.

Common Mistake #1: Using a 5 GHz Wi-Fi network
Arlo cameras only work on 2.4 GHz. If your router combines 2.4 and 5 GHz under one name (like “MyHome”), your Arlo might connect to 5 GHz and fail. Split your networks or force 2.4 GHz in your router settings. I did this with my Netgear Nighthawk—took 5 minutes, fixed everything.

Common Mistake #2: Not using the Edge driver
The old “SmartThings Classic” method is gone. If you’re not using the Arlo Edge Driver, your connection will be slow and unreliable. Local processing = faster, more private, and more stable.

Common Mistake #3: Overloading automation
Don’t set 10 actions for one motion event. Start simple: motion → light. Then add notifications. Then geofencing. One step at a time. I once tried to unlock my door, turn on lights, and play a welcome message—all at once. It failed. Simplify, then expand.

Pro Tip: Use Arlo’s Activity Zones
In the Arlo app, set activity zones so the camera only detects motion in specific areas (like your porch, not the street). This reduces false alerts and improves SmartThings automation accuracy.

Pro Tip: Check Hub Location
Place your SmartThings hub close to your Arlo base station or Wi-Fi router. Weak signal = delayed or failed communication. I moved my hub from the basement to the living room—response time dropped from 10 seconds to under 2.

Pro Tip: Use a Static IP for Arlo Base Station (if applicable)
If you have an Arlo SmartHub or base station, assign it a static IP in your router. This prevents IP changes that can break the SmartThings connection. A small step, but huge for reliability.

And remember: how to connect Arlo camera to Smart Thing Hub in 2026 isn’t a one-time setup. Check in monthly. Update apps. Review automations. Smart homes evolve—your setup should too.

FAQs About How to Connect Arlo Camera to Smart Thing Hub in 2026

Q: Can I connect older Arlo cameras (like Arlo Q or Arlo Baby)?
A: Some older models work, but support varies. The Edge driver officially supports Pro 2 and newer. I tried connecting an Arlo Q—it appeared in SmartThings but motion detection was spotty. Stick to 2020+ models for best results. Always check the SmartThings compatibility list.

Q: Does this work with Arlo without a base station (like Arlo Essential Wire-Free)?
A: Yes! As long as it’s Wi-Fi-enabled and on the supported list, it works. The Edge driver connects directly to the camera via your network. No base station needed.

Q: Why isn’t my Arlo camera showing up in SmartThings?
A: First, check your internet. Then, make sure the Edge driver is installed. If it still doesn’t appear, try:

• Logging out and back into your Arlo account in SmartThings.
• Removing and re-adding the Arlo integration.
• Restarting your SmartThings hub (unplug for 30 seconds).

I’ve had success with all three. One time, a hub restart was all it took.

Q: Can I view live video in SmartThings?
A: Yes, but with a catch. The live view works, but it’s not as smooth as the Arlo app. For quick checks, it’s great. For full HD or zooming, open the Arlo app. Think of SmartThings as the “alert center,” Arlo as the “control center.”

Q: Will this drain my Arlo battery faster?
A: Slightly. Frequent motion events (especially with automation) can use more power. But it’s usually negligible. I’ve had my Arlo Pro 4 for 8 months on one charge, with daily SmartThings triggers. If battery life drops, check motion sensitivity and activity zones.

Q: Can I use this for home security automation?
A: Absolutely. Set up routines like:

• Motion at night → Turn on lights + send notification + record video.
• Front door motion + door unlocked → Send alert + turn on camera spotlight.

Just don’t rely solely on it for security. Use it as a layer, not the whole system.

Q: What if I have multiple Arlo cameras?
A: You can connect all of them. Each appears as a separate device in SmartThings. Create individual automations or group them (e.g., “All backyard cameras detect motion → Turn on backyard lights”). The Edge driver handles multiple devices well.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it—your complete guide to how to connect Arlo camera to Smart Thing Hub in 2026. No magic, no jargon, just real steps that work.

I know it might feel overwhelming at first. But take it one step at a time. Update your apps. Install the Edge driver. Link your accounts. Test the motion. Build one routine. Then another.

Before you know it, your home will feel smarter, safer, and more intuitive. That moment when your porch light turns on as a delivery person walks up? Pure satisfaction.

And remember: smart home tech is meant to simplify your life, not complicate it. If something isn’t working, don’t stress. Restart, recheck, and keep going. I’ve been there—late at night, coffee in hand, wondering why the camera wouldn’t connect. But every problem has a fix.

Now go ahead—set up that automation, tweak that routine, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from a truly connected home. Your Arlo and SmartThings aren’t just devices anymore. They’re partners in your smart home journey.

And if you ever get stuck? Come back here. I’ve got your back.