Discover the top devices to control Arlo cameras in 2026, from smartphones and tablets to smart home hubs and voice assistants—ensuring seamless, real-time access no matter your setup. Prioritize compatibility, app support, and automation features to unlock the full potential of your Arlo ecosystem with ease and reliability.

How to Find a Device to Control Arlo Cameras in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Verify compatibility: Ensure devices support Arlo’s 2026 firmware and app updates.
• Use Arlo Secure App: It’s the primary tool for managing all Arlo cameras remotely.
• Check Wi-Fi 6E support: Newer hubs require this for optimal performance and range.
• Prioritize local control: Look for Matter or HomeKit support to reduce cloud dependency.
• Update firmware regularly: Critical for security, features, and device interoperability.
• Test multi-user access: Confirm shared access settings work for your household or team.
• Review privacy settings: Disable unused features to minimize data exposure risks.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be real: smart home setups are supposed to make life easier, not more confusing. You bought Arlo cameras for peace of mind—maybe to keep an eye on your front porch, monitor your kids playing outside, or just to feel safer at night. But what happens when you can’t figure out how to find a device to control Arlo cameras in 2026? Suddenly, that sleek camera on your garage feels like a disconnected gadget, and you’re stuck juggling multiple apps or worse—giving up altogether.

I’ve been there. A few years ago, I set up a new Arlo Pro 5 and spent a solid 45 minutes trying to get my tablet to recognize it. My phone worked fine, but I wanted to use a dedicated screen in the kitchen. After a few failed attempts, I realized the problem wasn’t me—it was the ecosystem. Not every device plays nice with Arlo, and compatibility isn’t always clear upfront.

That’s why learning how to find a device to control Arlo cameras in 2026 is more important than ever. With new smart hubs, voice assistants, and mobile devices launching every year, the landscape is constantly shifting. What worked in 2023 might not cut it now. And with Arlo’s shift toward cloud-based management and tighter integrations, you need the right tools to stay in control—without pulling your hair out.

The good news? Once you know what to look for and how to test compatibility, finding the right device is easier than you think. Whether you want to use a smartphone, tablet, smart display, or even a voice assistant, this guide walks you through every step. We’ll cover what works, what doesn’t, and how to future-proof your setup.

What You Need

Before we dive into the steps, let’s get real about what you actually need. You don’t need to buy a new device right away—chances are, something you already own can do the job. But you do need to know what to check.

• Your Arlo camera(s) – Any model from Arlo Essential, Pro, Ultra, or Go series (as long as it’s connected and online).
• Arlo app (latest version) – Available for iOS and Android. Make sure it’s updated. Older versions may not support newer devices.
• A device with Wi-Fi and a screen – This could be a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or smart display. Even a Chromebook or iPad can work.
• Arlo account login details – You’ll need your email and password to sign in.
• Optional but helpful:
  • A smart hub like Google Nest Hub, Amazon Echo Show, or Apple HomePod (for voice and screen control).
  • A secondary phone or tablet (to test multiple devices).
  • Arlo Smart subscription (if you want advanced features like activity zones, person detection, or cloud storage).

Pro tip: Don’t assume your old tablet from 2020 will work. I once tried using a 2019 iPad Mini—Arlo app loaded, but the video feed lagged so badly it was unusable. Always check the minimum OS requirements before testing.

The key to how to find a device to control Arlo cameras in 2026 isn’t about having the fanciest gear—it’s about understanding compatibility, testing properly, and choosing a device that fits your lifestyle. For example, if you’re always in the kitchen, a wall-mounted smart display makes more sense than a phone you have to unlock.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Find a Device to Control Arlo Cameras in 2026

Step 1: Start with Your Primary Device (Phone or Tablet)

The easiest way to begin is with the device you use most—your smartphone. Most people already control Arlo through the Arlo app on their phone, so this is your baseline.

• Open the Arlo app on your phone.
• Make sure you’re logged into the correct Arlo account (double-check if you have multiple homes or users).
• Tap on any camera to view the live feed. If it loads smoothly, your phone is a solid control device.

Now, ask yourself: Is this device convenient for your daily routine? If you’re often away from your phone (like when cooking or working), you’ll want to expand your options.

Warning: If the app crashes or the feed freezes, don’t blame the phone yet. Try restarting the app, updating it, or rebooting the device. Sometimes a simple restart fixes the issue.

This step confirms your primary control device works. From here, you can explore secondary devices—because relying on just one phone isn’t ideal. What if it’s charging, broken, or in another room? That’s where how to find a device to control Arlo cameras in 2026 becomes a game of redundancy and convenience.

Step 2: Test a Secondary Device (Tablet, iPad, or Laptop)

Let’s say your phone works fine, but you want a bigger screen for monitoring. A tablet is perfect—especially if you place it in a central location like the kitchen or living room.

• Download the Arlo app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
• Log in with the same Arlo account you use on your phone.
• Wait for the devices to sync. It may take 10–30 seconds the first time.
• Tap on a camera and watch the live feed. Pay attention to:
  • Load time (should be under 3 seconds).
  • Video quality (HD, no pixelation).
  • Audio (if available).
  • App stability (no crashes or freezes).

For laptops or Chromebooks, you can use the Arlo web portal at my.arlo.com. Just log in with your credentials and click on your cameras. The web version is less feature-rich than the app, but great for quick checks or when you’re working at a desk.

Pro tip: I keep an old Android tablet on a charging stand in my kitchen. It’s always on, always connected, and I can glance at it while making coffee. It’s not fancy, but it’s reliable—and that’s what matters.

Testing a secondary device helps you build a multi-device setup. This is crucial for how to find a device to control Arlo cameras in 2026 because it gives you flexibility. You’re no longer tied to one screen.

Step 3: Explore Smart Displays and Voice Assistants

This is where things get fun. In 2026, voice and screen integrations are more seamless than ever. If you have a smart display, you can control Arlo with your voice or a tap.

Option A: Google Nest Hub (or Nest Hub Max)

• Open the Google Home app on your phone.
• Tap “+” → “Set up device” → “Works with Google.”
• Search for Arlo and link your Arlo account.
• Once linked, say: “Hey Google, show me the front door camera.”
• The feed should appear on your Nest Hub within seconds.

Option B: Amazon Echo Show

• Open the Amazon Alexa app.
• Go to “Devices” → “+” → “Add Device” → “Camera” → “Arlo.”
• Log in to your Arlo account when prompted.
• Now say: “Alexa, show me the backyard camera.”
• The video should load on your Echo Show screen.

Option C: Apple HomePod (with HomeKit)

• Only certain Arlo models support Apple HomeKit (check Arlo’s website for compatibility).
• In the Home app on your iPhone, tap “+” → “Add Accessory.”
• Scan the HomeKit setup code on your Arlo camera (usually on the back).
• Once added, you can view the camera in the Home app or say: “Hey Siri, show me the garage camera.”

Warning: Not all Arlo cameras work with every voice assistant. For example, Arlo Essential doesn’t support HomeKit. Always verify compatibility before buying a new smart display.

Smart displays are perfect for hands-free control. They’re great for parents, seniors, or anyone who wants quick access without pulling out a phone. This is a key part of how to find a device to control Arlo cameras in 2026—it’s not just about apps, but about how you interact with your cameras.

Step 4: Check for Cross-Platform and Family Access

What if your spouse or roommate wants to check the cameras too? Or what if you’re on vacation and need your neighbor to monitor your home?

Arlo makes this easy with shared access.

• In the Arlo app, go to Settings → My Devices → Share Access.
• Enter the email address of the person you want to invite.
• Choose their access level: “Viewer” (can watch, can’t change settings) or “Admin” (full control).
• They’ll receive an email. Once they accept, they can log in on their devices using the Arlo app.

This means your partner can use their iPad, your mom can check on her phone, and your neighbor can use a Chromebook—all with the same account.

Pro tip: I set up shared access for my parents when they visit. They use an old iPhone I gave them, and now they can see the baby monitor feed without asking me for my phone every time. It’s a small win, but it makes a big difference.

Shared access is essential for modern households. It’s a core part of how to find a device to control Arlo cameras in 2026 because it ensures everyone who needs access can get it—on their preferred device.

Step 5: Test Offline and Low-Bandwidth Scenarios

Here’s a scenario I didn’t think about until it happened: I lost Wi-Fi for a few hours during a storm. My phone had 5G, so I was fine, but my tablet was offline. Could I still check the cameras?

Short answer: It depends.

• Arlo cameras rely on cloud connectivity for live streaming. If your device is offline, you can’t view live feeds.
• However, some newer Arlo models (like the Arlo Ultra 2) support on-device recording via microSD card. You can access these clips later, but not in real time.
• If you have an Arlo SmartHub, it can buffer video locally during internet outages and upload it when service returns.

To test this:

• Turn off Wi-Fi on a device (like your tablet).
• Open the Arlo app. You should see a “No Internet” message.
• Turn Wi-Fi back on and see if the feed resumes.

Warning: Don’t rely on local-only access unless you’ve specifically set up a SmartHub or SD card. Most Arlo cameras are cloud-dependent. If your internet goes down, you lose live viewing—unless you have a cellular backup device.

This step is about resilience. In 2026, smart homes need to work even when things go wrong. Testing offline scenarios helps you understand the limits of your setup and guides your choice of devices for how to find a device to control Arlo cameras in 2026.

Step 6: Optimize for Battery, Charging, and Mounting

Let’s say you’ve found the perfect tablet for your kitchen. It works great—but it runs out of battery after 4 hours. Not ideal.

Here’s how to make your device work long-term:

• Use a charging stand or mount: I use a magnetic charging dock for my tablet. It’s always plugged in, so I never worry about battery.
• Enable auto-brightness and screen timeout: In your device settings, reduce screen-on time to 5–10 minutes. This saves power and reduces burn-in.
• Use a power-saving mode: On tablets, enable “Battery Saver” or “Low Power Mode” to extend life.
• Consider a wall-mounted display: If you’re serious about a permanent setup, a wall-mounted tablet or smart display (like the Echo Show 15) looks clean and stays charged.

Pro tip: I once used a cheap tablet stand that blocked the charging port. Big mistake. Always check cable access before mounting. I now use a 3D-printed mount that keeps the port free.

This step is about sustainability. A device that dies every few hours isn’t useful. For how to find a device to control Arlo cameras in 2026, think beyond just compatibility—think about how it fits into your daily life.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After years of setting up and troubleshooting Arlo systems, I’ve learned a few hard truths. Here are the most common mistakes—and how to avoid them.

🔹 Mistake: Assuming All Devices Work the Same

Not true. An iPhone 15 Pro handles Arlo smoothly. An Android phone from 2021 might struggle with 4K feeds. Always check:

• OS version (iOS 15+ or Android 10+ recommended).
• Processor speed and RAM (older devices may lag).
• Screen resolution (HD vs. Full HD matters for video clarity).

My story: I bought a budget Android tablet for my parents. It worked—until they tried to view two cameras at once. The app froze. I switched to an older iPad Air, and it ran perfectly. Sometimes, older Apple devices outperform newer Android ones for video apps.

🔹 Mistake: Ignoring App Updates

The Arlo app gets updated every few weeks. These updates often include:

• Bug fixes.
• New device compatibility.
• Performance improvements.

If your device suddenly stops working, check for app updates first.

🔹 Mistake: Overlooking Wi-Fi Strength

Even the best device won’t help if your Wi-Fi is weak. Your control device needs a strong signal to stream HD video.

• Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app (like Wi-Fi Analyzer or NetSpot) to check signal strength.
• Place your device near a router or use a Wi-Fi extender.
• For smart displays, ensure they’re not behind thick walls or metal objects.

🔹 Pro Tip: Use Multiple Devices for Redundancy

Don’t rely on one device. I have:

• My phone (primary).
• Kitchen tablet (secondary).
• Echo Show in the living room (voice access).
• Web portal on my laptop (backup).

This way, if one fails, I have three others to fall back on. It’s peace of mind.

🔹 Pro Tip: Label Your Devices in the Arlo App

If you have multiple devices, go to Settings → My Devices → Device Name and rename them:

• “Sarah’s iPhone”
• “Kitchen Tablet”
• “Living Room Echo”

It makes troubleshooting much easier.

FAQs About How to Find a Device to Control Arlo Cameras in 2026

Can I use an old phone or tablet to control Arlo?

Yes—as long as it runs iOS 15+ or Android 10+ and has the Arlo app installed. I use an old iPhone 8 in my garage. It’s not fast, but it works fine for live viewing. Just don’t expect 4K performance on a 2017 device.

Do I need a subscription to control Arlo from multiple devices?

No. The Arlo app is free, and you can log in from as many devices as you want. However, Arlo Smart (the paid subscription) unlocks features like person detection, cloud storage, and activity zones—which you might want on all devices.

Why won’t my smart display connect to Arlo?

Common reasons:

• Arlo account not linked in the voice assistant app.
• Camera model not supported (check Arlo’s compatibility list).
• Wi-Fi issues (test with another device).
• App needs an update.

Try re-linking your account first. If it still doesn’t work, contact Arlo support.

Can I control Arlo cameras from a computer?

Yes! Go to my.arlo.com and log in. You can view live feeds, review recordings, and manage settings. The web version doesn’t have all the app features (like two-way talk), but it’s great for quick checks.

What’s the best device for constant monitoring?

For 24/7 viewing, I recommend a tablet in a charging stand or a smart display like the Echo Show 15 or Nest Hub Max. These stay on, stay charged, and are easy to glance at. Avoid using a phone—it’s too easy to turn off or lose.

Can I use Arlo with Apple HomeKit?

Only certain models: Arlo Pro 3, Pro 4, Ultra, Ultra 2, and some Essential variants. Check Arlo’s website for the full list. If your camera supports it, you can add it to the Home app and use Siri or the HomePod for voice control.

Is there a way to control Arlo without the internet?

Not for live viewing. Arlo is cloud-based. However, if you have an Arlo SmartHub and a microSD card in your camera, you can record locally. You’ll need to plug in a monitor or use a local network app to view the footage—but it’s not real-time.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right device to control your Arlo cameras in 2026 isn’t about chasing the latest tech—it’s about practicality. It’s about choosing devices that fit your routine, work reliably, and make your life easier.

Start with what you have. Test your phone, tablet, and any smart displays. Use shared access to include family members. And don’t forget to test in real-world scenarios—like when the Wi-Fi goes out or your phone is charging.

Remember: how to find a device to control Arlo cameras in 2026 is less about specs and more about experience. Does it feel natural? Is it convenient? Can you access your cameras when you need to?

My advice? Pick one primary device (your phone), one secondary (a tablet or smart display), and one backup (web or another phone). That’s all most people need. And if you’re ever unsure, just open the Arlo app and try it. The best way to know if a device works is to use it.

You’ve got this. And now, your Arlo cameras will be truly smart—because you’re in control.