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Sharing your Aqara Doorbell Camera with family is quick and secure using the Aqara Home app—simply invite members via email or QR code for instant access. Customize permissions to control who can view live feeds, playback recordings, or manage settings, ensuring everyone stays connected without compromising privacy.
Key Takeaways
- Open the Aqara app and select your doorbell camera to begin sharing.
- Tap “Share Device” to invite family members via email or phone number.
- Set permissions to control what shared users can view or manage.
- Accept invites promptly—shared access requires confirmation from each family member.
- Use Family Sharing to sync access across multiple Aqara devices effortlessly.
- Revoke access anytime through the app’s sharing settings if needed.
📑 Table of Contents
- How to Share Aqara Doorbell Camera with Family in Simple Steps
- Understanding Aqara Doorbell Camera Sharing Features
- Step-by-Step Guide: Sharing via the Aqara Home App
- Sharing with Apple HomeKit: A Seamless Alternative
- Advanced Sharing: Multi-Device and Remote Access
- Troubleshooting Common Sharing Issues
- Best Practices for Secure and Efficient Sharing
How to Share Aqara Doorbell Camera with Family in Simple Steps
Imagine this: You’re away on vacation, but you want to know if your parents received the care package you sent. Or perhaps you’re at work, and your child just got home from school—wouldn’t it be reassuring to see their smiling face at the door? With the Aqara Doorbell Camera, these scenarios are no longer just wishful thinking. This smart device offers real-time video, two-way audio, motion detection, and seamless integration with your home ecosystem. But what truly elevates the Aqara experience is its ability to be shared with family members, allowing multiple trusted individuals to monitor, respond, and stay connected—no matter where they are.
In today’s connected world, home security isn’t just about protecting your property—it’s about keeping loved ones in the loop. Whether you’re a parent wanting to check on your kids, a caregiver monitoring an elderly relative, or simply someone who values shared responsibility, the ability to share your Aqara Doorbell Camera is a game-changer. This guide walks you through the entire process, from setup to advanced sharing options, ensuring that your family stays informed, safe, and in control. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to grant access, manage permissions, and troubleshoot common issues—all in simple, actionable steps.
Understanding Aqara Doorbell Camera Sharing Features
The Aqara Doorbell Camera isn’t just a standalone device; it’s part of a broader smart home ecosystem powered by the Aqara Home app and compatible with platforms like Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa. One of its standout features is the ability to share access with multiple users, making it ideal for families, shared households, or co-owners of a property. But before diving into the sharing process, it’s essential to understand what this feature offers and how it works.
Visual guide about how to share aqara doorbell camera with family
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What You Can Share: Device Access vs. Full Control
When you share your Aqara Doorbell Camera, you’re not just giving someone the ability to view live video—you’re granting them varying levels of control depending on the permissions you set. Here’s what’s possible:
- View Live Feed: Family members can see who’s at the door in real time.
- Receive Notifications: They get alerts when motion is detected or someone rings the doorbell.
- Two-Way Audio: They can speak to visitors directly through the app.
- Playback Recordings: Access to cloud or local storage footage (if enabled).
- Adjust Settings: Advanced users can change motion zones, notification preferences, or Wi-Fi settings (if given full control).
For example, you might want your spouse to have full access, while your teenage child can only view the live feed and receive notifications. The Aqara app allows you to customize these permissions with precision.
Supported Platforms and Compatibility
Sharing works seamlessly across platforms, but there are a few nuances:
- Aqara Home App (iOS/Android): Full sharing capabilities, including permission levels and remote access.
- Apple HomeKit: You can share the doorbell as part of your HomeKit setup. However, Apple’s sharing model is slightly different—it’s tied to your Apple ID and Family Sharing.
- Google Home & Amazon Alexa: While you can view the camera on Google Nest or Echo Show, sharing is managed through the Aqara app. The smart speaker acts as a display, not a control hub.
For maximum flexibility, we recommend using the Aqara Home app as your primary sharing tool. It gives you the most granular control and is updated regularly with new features.
Security and Privacy Considerations
Sharing access doesn’t mean compromising security. Aqara uses end-to-end encryption for video feeds and stores data securely. When you invite someone, they must:
- Have their own Aqara account (free to create).
- Accept the invitation via email or in-app notification.
- Log in from their device—no shared login credentials needed.
This ensures that each user has individual access, and you can revoke permissions at any time. For instance, if a roommate moves out, you can remove their access instantly—no need to change passwords or reset the device.
Step-by-Step Guide: Sharing via the Aqara Home App
Now that you understand the capabilities, let’s walk through the process of sharing your Aqara Doorbell Camera using the Aqara Home app. This is the most reliable and feature-rich method, especially for families who want customizable access.
Step 1: Install and Set Up the Aqara Home App
Before sharing, ensure your doorbell is properly installed and connected to the app.
- Download the Aqara Home app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
- Create an account or log in if you already have one.
- Tap the + icon in the top-right corner to add a new device.
- Select Doorbell Camera from the list and follow the in-app instructions to pair it via QR code or manual setup.
- Test the doorbell by pressing the button—you should see a live feed and hear the chime.
Tip: Ensure your Wi-Fi signal is strong at the doorbell’s location. A weak connection can cause delays in notifications or poor video quality.
Step 2: Access the Sharing Menu
Once your doorbell is online and working:
- Open the Aqara Home app and tap on your Doorbell Camera from the home screen.
- Tap the gear icon (settings) in the top-right corner.
- Scroll down and select Sharing or Family Sharing (the exact wording may vary by app version).
You’ll now see a list of users currently sharing the device and options to add new ones.
Step 3: Invite a Family Member
To add someone:
- Tap + Add User or Invite Family Member.
- Enter their email address associated with their Aqara account.
- Select their permission level:
- View Only: Can see live feed and playback but cannot speak or change settings.
- Standard User: Can view, speak, and receive notifications. Cannot change device settings.
- Full Access: Can do everything, including changing Wi-Fi, adjusting motion zones, and removing other users.
- Tap Send Invitation.
Practical Example: You’re setting up the doorbell for your elderly parents. You invite your sibling with Full Access so they can adjust motion sensitivity if needed. Your mom gets Standard User to view and speak to visitors, while your dad gets View Only because he only wants to see who’s at the door.
Step 4: Accept the Invitation
The invited user will receive an email and/or in-app notification. They must:
- Open the email or notification.
- Tap Accept Invitation.
- Log in to their Aqara account (or create one if needed).
- Grant permissions to the device.
Once accepted, the doorbell will appear in their app under “Shared Devices.” They can now view the live feed, receive notifications, and use two-way audio (based on permissions).
Step 5: Manage and Modify Permissions
You can adjust permissions anytime:
- Go back to the Sharing menu.
- Tap on a user’s name.
- Change their permission level or tap Remove Access.
Pro Tip: If a user loses their phone or changes devices, they can log in from a new device—their access remains intact. However, if you remove them and re-invite, they’ll need to accept the invitation again.
Sharing with Apple HomeKit: A Seamless Alternative
If your family uses Apple devices, you can integrate the Aqara Doorbell Camera into Apple HomeKit and leverage Apple’s built-in sharing features. This method is especially useful if you already use Siri, HomePods, or Apple TV as hubs.
Prerequisites for HomeKit Sharing
Before proceeding, ensure:
- Your Aqara Doorbell Camera is HomeKit-certified (check the box or product listing).
- You have an Apple device (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) with the latest iOS/iPadOS.
- You’re logged into iCloud with two-factor authentication enabled.
- You have an Apple ID and Family Sharing set up.
Note: Not all Aqara doorbell models support HomeKit. The Aqara Video Doorbell G2H Pro and G3 are confirmed compatible.
Step 1: Add the Doorbell to Apple Home
- Open the Home app on your iPhone.
- Tap the + icon and select Add Accessory.
- Scan the HomeKit setup code on the doorbell or its packaging.
- Follow prompts to name the doorbell and assign it to a room (e.g., “Front Door”).
Step 2: Enable Family Sharing in HomeKit
Apple uses iCloud Family Sharing to manage access:
- Open Settings > [Your Name] > Family Sharing.
- Ensure all family members are added to your family group.
- Open the Home app > tap More (three dots) > Home Settings.
- Select Invite People and enter their Apple ID email.
- They’ll receive an invitation to join your home. Once accepted, they can:
- View the doorbell feed on their iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV.
- Use Siri commands like “Hey Siri, show me the front door.”
- Receive notifications on their Apple Watch.
Example: Your child is at soccer practice. You ring the doorbell, and they get a notification on their Apple Watch. They can tap it to see who’s at the door and speak to the delivery person—all without opening the Aqara app.
Limitations and Workarounds
HomeKit sharing has a few constraints:
- No Granular Permissions: All invited users get full access. You can’t restrict someone to “View Only” like in the Aqara app.
- No Two-Way Audio in Notifications: On Apple Watch, you can view the video but must open the Home app to speak.
- Hub Required: For remote access, you need an Apple TV, HomePod, or iPad set as a home hub.
Workaround: Use both methods. Share via the Aqara app for granular control and use HomeKit for Siri integration and Apple ecosystem features.
Advanced Sharing: Multi-Device and Remote Access
For large families or shared households (e.g., roommates, co-owners), you might need to share the doorbell with more than just immediate family. The Aqara ecosystem supports advanced sharing options to meet these needs.
Sharing with Non-Family Members
You can invite anyone with an Aqara account—not just family. This is useful for:
- Roommates: Each person can get their own access level (e.g., one with Full Access, others with Standard).
- Property Managers: Grant temporary access to a landlord or maintenance staff.
- Trusted Neighbors: In a community setup, allow a neighbor to monitor your door while you’re away.
Tip: For temporary access (e.g., a repair person), set their permission to Standard User and remove them once the task is complete.
Remote Access and Cross-Region Sharing
The Aqara app works globally. If your family is in different countries:
- They can view the live feed and receive notifications in real time.
- No additional setup is needed—just a stable internet connection.
- Cloud recordings (if enabled) are accessible from anywhere.
Example: You live in the U.S., and your parents are in Germany. You share the doorbell with them. When the doorbell rings, they get a notification on their phone and can see who’s at the door—no matter the time zone.
Using Multiple Devices for One Doorbell
Each family member can install the Aqara app on multiple devices:
- Mom has the app on her iPhone and iPad.
- Dad uses it on his Android phone and tablet.
- Teenager has it on their phone and smartwatch (via companion app).
This ensures everyone can access the doorbell from their preferred device.
Troubleshooting Common Sharing Issues
Even with a user-friendly app, issues can arise. Here’s how to resolve the most common problems.
Invitation Not Received
Problem: The invited user doesn’t get the email or notification.
- Check if the email is in their spam folder.
- Verify the email address is correct and matches their Aqara account.
- Ask them to check the Aqara app’s “Invitations” section under Profile > Notifications.
- Resend the invitation after 24 hours.
User Can’t See the Doorbell
Problem: The doorbell doesn’t appear in their app after accepting.
- Ensure they’re logged into the correct Aqara account.
- Restart the app and pull down to refresh the device list.
- Check if the device is offline (e.g., Wi-Fi issue).
- Reinstall the app and log in again.
Notifications Not Working
Problem: The user isn’t getting alerts.
- Check their phone’s notification settings for the Aqara app.
- Ensure “Do Not Disturb” mode is off.
- In the Aqara app, go to the doorbell settings > Notifications > enable “Motion Detection” and “Doorbell Ring.”
- Test by ringing the doorbell manually.
Permission Conflicts
Problem: A user can’t perform an action (e.g., speak to a visitor).
- Verify their permission level in the Sharing menu.
- Upgrade their access if needed.
- Log out and back in to refresh permissions.
Data Table: Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Issue | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No invitation received | Email typo or spam filter | Resend; check spam; verify email |
| Doorbell not visible | Wrong account or app cache | Log in correctly; restart app; reinstall |
| No notifications | Phone settings or app permissions | Enable notifications in phone & app settings |
| Can’t speak to visitor | Permission level too low | Upgrade to Standard or Full Access |
| HomeKit not syncing | Hub not set up or Wi-Fi issue | Set up Apple TV/HomePod as hub |
Best Practices for Secure and Efficient Sharing
Sharing your Aqara Doorbell Camera enhances safety and convenience, but it requires thoughtful management. Follow these best practices to ensure a smooth and secure experience.
Set Clear Permission Levels
Not everyone needs full control. Use a tiered approach:
- Full Access: Spouse, primary caregiver, or tech-savvy family member.
- Standard User: Kids, parents, or trusted roommates.
- View Only: Elderly relatives, neighbors, or temporary users.
This minimizes the risk of accidental changes (e.g., turning off notifications).
Regularly Review Access
Audit your shared users every 3-6 months:
- Remove anyone who no longer needs access (e.g., former roommates).
- Update permissions if family roles change (e.g., a child turns 16 and gets Standard access).
- Check for inactive accounts—revoke if unused for months.
Educate Family Members
Provide a quick guide or video tutorial on how to:
- Open the app and view the live feed.
- Respond to notifications.
- Use two-way audio (if permitted).
- Report issues (e.g., “The doorbell isn’t ringing on my phone”).
Example: Create a simple PDF with screenshots and keep it in a shared family folder.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
For added security, enable 2FA on your Aqara account:
- Go to Profile > Account Security.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication.
- Use an authenticator app (e.g., Google Authenticator) or SMS.
This prevents unauthorized access even if someone steals your phone.
Use Cloud Storage Wisely
If you have Aqara’s cloud storage plan:
- Set retention periods (e.g., 7 or 30 days) to avoid clutter.
- Ensure all family members know how to access recordings.
- Download important clips (e.g., a package delivery) to local devices.
Final Tip: Combine sharing with other Aqara devices (e.g., smart locks, lights) for a fully integrated smart home. When the doorbell rings, a light turns on automatically—visible to everyone in the family.
Sharing your Aqara Doorbell Camera with family isn’t just about convenience—it’s about building a safer, more connected home. By following these steps, you empower your loved ones to stay informed, respond quickly, and feel secure. Whether you’re using the Aqara app, Apple HomeKit, or both, the process is intuitive, flexible, and secure. Start sharing today, and turn your doorbell into a hub of family communication and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I share my Aqara doorbell camera with family members?
To share your Aqara doorbell camera, open the Aqara app, go to the device settings, and select “Share Device.” Enter the email or phone number of the family member you want to grant access to. They’ll receive an invitation to view the camera feed.
Can multiple people access the Aqara doorbell camera at the same time?
Yes, multiple users can access the Aqara doorbell camera simultaneously after being added via the sharing feature in the Aqara app. Each family member will need to accept the invitation and log in to their own Aqara account.
Is it possible to customize permissions when sharing an Aqara doorbell camera?
Absolutely! When sharing your Aqara doorbell camera, you can choose between “View Only” or “Full Access” permissions. Full access allows family members to change settings, while view-only restricts them to watching the live feed.
Do family members need an Aqara account to view the doorbell camera?
Yes, anyone you share the Aqara doorbell camera with must have an Aqara account. Once they accept the invite, they can log in to their account to access the camera on their devices.
How many family members can I share my Aqara doorbell camera with?
The Aqara app allows you to share your doorbell camera with up to 10 users. This makes it easy to include all household members or trusted neighbors for added security.
What if a family member doesn’t receive the Aqara sharing invite?
If the invite isn’t received, check the spam/junk folder of their email or resend it using their correct contact info. Ensure they’ve also downloaded the Aqara app and created an account to accept the share request.