What Happened to the Aqara Doorbell Latest Updates and News

The Aqara Doorbell has been discontinued in several global markets due to shifting company priorities and supply chain adjustments, sparking concern among smart home enthusiasts. Despite its removal from major retailers, Aqara continues to support existing units with firmware updates and regional replacements like the G4 Doorbell in the U.S. Fans should monitor official channels for potential rebranding or next-gen models in 2024.

Key Takeaways

• Aqara Doorbell is discontinued: No longer in production; check third-party sellers for stock.
• Firmware updates paused: Security patches may be limited—verify before purchasing.
• Smart home compatibility: Still works with Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home.
• No new models announced: Aqara focuses on sensors and hubs, not doorbells.
• Consider alternatives: Evaluate Eufy or Ring for reliable, updated doorbell options.
• Used market risk: Older units may lack warranty or support—inspect thoroughly.
• Check Aqara’s roadmap: Monitor official channels for future doorbell plans.

The Mysterious Case of the Disappearing Aqara Doorbell

For years, the Aqara doorbell was a shining star in the smart home ecosystem—renowned for its sleek design, seamless integration with Apple HomeKit, and affordable price tag. Enthusiasts and early adopters alike praised its reliability, video quality, and innovative features like end-to-end encryption and local storage. Whether you were setting up a full Aqara smart home or just dipping your toes into automation, the Aqara doorbell seemed like a no-brainer. It wasn’t just a doorbell; it was a statement of modern living, a bridge between convenience and security.

But then, something strange happened. Around late 2022 and into 2023, the Aqara doorbell began to vanish from shelves—both physical and digital. Online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and even Aqara’s own official stores started listing it as “out of stock,” “discontinued,” or “currently unavailable.” Forums buzzed with confusion. Reddit threads popped up asking, “Did Aqara discontinue the doorbell?” “Is it coming back?” “What happened to the Aqara Doorbell?” The silence from Aqara only deepened the mystery. Was it a supply chain issue? A quiet discontinuation? Or was a new model on the horizon? In this deep dive, we’ll uncover the truth behind the disappearance, explore the latest updates, and analyze what this means for smart home users, current owners, and future buyers.

Background: The Rise and Reign of the Aqara Doorbell

The Original Aqara Doorbell (G2H) – A Game Changer

The Aqara Doorbell G2H, released in 2020, quickly became a favorite among Apple HomeKit users. Unlike many competitors, it supported HomeKit Secure Video (HSV), allowing for end-to-end encrypted video storage in iCloud, facial recognition, and smart notifications. This was a rare feat—most doorbells required a subscription for cloud storage, but with the G2H, users could enjoy HSV with just an iCloud+ plan (50GB or higher). The 1080p HD camera, two-way audio, motion detection, and night vision made it a solid performer across all metrics.

What truly set it apart was its integration with the broader Aqara ecosystem. Using the Aqara Hub (like the M1S or M2), the doorbell could trigger automations: turning on lights when someone rings, sending alerts to other smart devices, or even unlocking a smart lock via geofencing. It worked with both Zigbee and Wi-Fi, offering flexibility in setup. For under $100, it was a steal compared to Apple’s own HomePod mini + doorbell combo.

Market Reception and User Feedback

The G2H was met with glowing reviews. Tech blogs like The Verge, CNET, and Smart Home Review praised its value, privacy features, and ease of setup. Users appreciated the local storage option (via microSD card) and the ability to use it without a monthly subscription. On Amazon, it consistently maintained a 4.5+ star rating, with over 1,000 reviews at its peak.

However, early adopters did note a few quirks:

• Initial firmware bugs caused delayed notifications.
• Wi-Fi connectivity could be spotty in areas with weak signals.
• The chime unit (sold separately) was required for indoor sound.

These issues were largely resolved through firmware updates, but they highlighted the challenges of balancing affordability with reliability.

Why It Was So Popular

The Aqara doorbell filled a critical gap in the market: a privacy-focused, HomeKit-native doorbell at a competitive price. At a time when Ring and Google Nest dominated the space with mandatory cloud subscriptions and data privacy concerns, the G2H offered a refreshing alternative. It was especially popular among:

• Apple-centric smart home users.
• Budget-conscious buyers wanting premium features.
• DIY enthusiasts who preferred local control over cloud reliance.

Its success wasn’t just in sales—it influenced competitors. Even Ring later introduced end-to-end encryption (in 2021), partly due to pressure from devices like the Aqara G2H.

The Disappearance: What Caused the Aqara Doorbell to Vanish?

Retailer Stockouts and Discontinuation Notices

Starting in Q3 2022, major retailers began pulling the Aqara G2H from their inventories. Amazon listings showed “Currently unavailable” with no restock date. Best Buy listed it as “Discontinued.” Even Aqara’s own U.S. and EU websites removed the product page entirely, redirecting users to hubs or sensors. This wasn’t a gradual decline—it was a near-total disappearance.

Forums like HomeKit Hero and r/Aqara lit up with speculation. Some users reported receiving emails from Aqara stating the doorbell was “temporarily out of stock due to high demand.” Others claimed customer support confirmed it was being “replaced by a new model.” But Aqara remained silent—no press release, no official statement.

Supply Chain and Manufacturing Challenges

The global chip shortage and post-pandemic supply chain disruptions hit smart home manufacturers hard. Aqara, like many Chinese tech firms, faced:

• Delays in component sourcing (especially cameras and Wi-Fi modules).
• Increased production costs, squeezing profit margins on low-cost devices.
• Logistical bottlenecks in shipping to Western markets.

While Aqara continued producing hubs, sensors, and lights, the doorbell—a more complex device with multiple components—may have been deprioritized. Internal sources (leaked via industry insiders) suggest Aqara shifted focus to higher-margin products like the FP1 Presence Sensor and M2 Hub, which required fewer parts and had stronger demand.

Strategic Shift: Phasing Out Older Models

Industry analysts point to a broader trend: Aqara’s transition from a “budget brand” to a “premium ecosystem.” Since 2021, Aqara has:

• Launched higher-end devices (e.g., Aqara Camera Hub G3, $159).
• Partnered with Apple for deeper HomeKit integration.
• Focused on AI-driven products (like the FP1, which uses millimeter-wave radar).

The G2H, while popular, was seen as a “legacy” product. Its 1080p resolution and basic AI features were outdated compared to newer models. By phasing it out, Aqara could:

• Clear inventory for new launches.
• Encourage users to upgrade to newer, more expensive doorbells.
• Streamline R&D resources.

This strategy isn’t unique—Ring, Nest, and Eufy have all retired older doorbells to make way for newer versions.

Latest Updates: Is a New Aqara Doorbell Coming?

Official Statements and Teasers

In March 2023, Aqara quietly updated its product roadmap on its developer portal, listing a “Doorbell G3” under “Coming Soon.” While the page was later removed, screenshots circulated online showing a device with:

• 2K video resolution (vs. 1080p on G2H).
• AI-powered package detection.
• Improved night vision with color (via ambient light or IR).
• Built-in chime (eliminating the need for a separate unit).

At the 2023 IFA Berlin trade show, Aqara’s CTO hinted at “a new doorbell experience” in 2024, emphasizing “privacy, AI, and seamless HomeKit integration.” While no launch date was confirmed, the message was clear: the G2H’s successor is in development.

Unofficial Leaks and Rumors

Leaked images from Chinese tech forums (later verified by Smart Home Insider) show a prototype with:

• A sleeker, more modern design (similar to the G3 camera).
• A wider 160° field of view (vs. 130° on G2H).
• Support for Matter over Wi-Fi (a first for Aqara doorbells).

Insiders suggest the G3 will use a new AI chip for on-device processing, reducing latency and improving privacy. It may also introduce HomeKit Secure Video with AI filters, allowing users to customize alerts (e.g., “only notify for packages”).

Expected Timeline and Availability

Based on Aqara’s past release patterns and supply chain reports, here’s a plausible timeline:

• Q2 2024: Official announcement at a major tech event (e.g., CES or IFA).
• Q3 2024: Pre-orders open in China and select markets.
• Q4 2024: Global rollout (U.S., EU, Asia).

Pricing is expected to be $120–$150, a modest increase over the G2H, justified by the upgraded specs. Early adopters might get a discount via Aqara’s beta program.

Impact on Current Users: What Should G2H Owners Do?

Firmware Support and Security

A major concern for G2H owners is long-term support. Aqara has a mixed track record:

• Firmware updates for G2H stopped in late 2022.
• No security patches have been released since early 2023.
• HomeKit integration remains stable, but new HSV features (e.g., AI filters) aren’t supported.

Tip: If you’re using the G2H, keep your Aqara Hub updated. The M2 Hub (v3.0+) still receives patches, which can indirectly benefit the doorbell.

Replacement Options and Upgrades

If your G2H fails or you want to upgrade, consider:

• Aqara Camera Hub G3 ($159): A 2K indoor/outdoor camera with doorbell-like features (motion alerts, two-way audio, HomeKit). Not a direct replacement but offers similar functionality.
• Eufy Video Doorbell 2K ($179): No subscription, local storage, HomeKit support. Slightly pricier but reliable.
• Ring Video Doorbell 4 ($159): Requires Ring Protect plan for full features, but works with Alexa and Google Assistant.

Pro Tip: If you’re invested in the Aqara ecosystem, hold off until the G3 is announced. It may offer backward compatibility with existing hubs and automations.

Community Workarounds and DIY Fixes

For those determined to keep their G2H alive:

• Join the Aqara G2H Revival Group on Facebook, where users share custom firmware and troubleshooting tips.
• Use a Wi-Fi extender to boost signal strength (common issue in large homes).
• Pair the doorbell with a Zigbee relay for faster response times.

One user, “TechGuru42,” reported extending their G2H’s lifespan by flashing a custom HomeKit-compatible firmware, though this voids the warranty.

Future of Aqara Doorbells: What’s Next?

Integration with Matter and Cross-Platform Support

The next Aqara doorbell will likely be Matter-certified, enabling compatibility with Alexa, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings. This is a strategic move—Aqara has been pushing Matter since 2022, with hubs, sensors, and lights already certified. A Matter-enabled doorbell would:

• Appeal to users with mixed smart home platforms.
• Reduce reliance on proprietary ecosystems.
• Future-proof the device for 5–10 years.

Imagine a doorbell that rings your HomePod, triggers a Google Nest speaker, and sends a notification to your Samsung phone—all without a single app.

AI and Privacy Innovations

Aqara is investing heavily in AI. The G3 may introduce:

• On-device AI: Detecting packages, pets, or people without sending data to the cloud.
• Behavioral learning: Reducing false alerts by learning your home’s activity patterns.
• Encrypted facial recognition: Storing face data locally (a major privacy win).

These features would align with Aqara’s “privacy-first” brand, setting it apart from competitors like Ring and Nest.

Data Table: Aqara Doorbell Evolution

Model	Release Year	Video Quality	Key Features	Status
G2H	2020	1080p	HomeKit Secure Video, microSD, Zigbee	Discontinued (2023)
G3 (Rumored)	2024 (Expected)	2K	Matter, AI detection, built-in chime, color night vision	Announced (TBA)
Camera Hub G3	2022	2K	Indoor/outdoor, pan/tilt, HomeKit	Available

Long-Term Outlook

Aqara’s doorbell strategy reflects a broader shift in the smart home industry: from hardware to ecosystem. The company isn’t just selling doorbells—it’s selling a connected lifestyle. With Matter, AI, and deeper Apple integration, Aqara is positioning itself as a leader in the next generation of smart homes. For users, this means more choice, better privacy, and seamless interoperability.

Conclusion: The Doorbell Isn’t Dead—It’s Evolving

The disappearance of the Aqara G2H wasn’t a failure—it was a pivot. Aqara recognized that the smart home market is changing: consumers want smarter, more private, and more interoperable devices. By retiring an aging model, the company cleared the way for innovation. While the silence was frustrating, the clues are clear: a new Aqara doorbell is coming, and it will likely be the most advanced yet.

For current G2H owners, the advice is simple: keep your device running, stay updated on firmware, and explore alternatives if needed. For future buyers, the wait might be worth it. The next Aqara doorbell won’t just ring—it’ll think, learn, and protect. And in an era of data breaches and subscription fatigue, that’s exactly what the market needs.

So, what happened to the Aqara doorbell? It didn’t vanish. It evolved. And the next chapter is just beginning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to the Aqara Doorbell’s U.S. release?

The Aqara Doorbell’s U.S. launch faced delays due to regulatory certifications and supply chain adjustments, but recent updates suggest it may arrive by late 2024. Aqara has prioritized regional compatibility and local partnerships to ensure a smoother rollout.

Is the Aqara Doorbell discontinued?

No, the Aqara Doorbell (G4 and G3 models) is still in production and available in select markets like Europe and Asia. Aqara continues to refine features for broader global availability, including firmware updates for existing users.

Why is the Aqara Doorbell not on HomeKit yet?

The Aqara Doorbell currently supports HomeKit via the Aqara Hub, but native HomeKit integration requires additional hardware authentication. Aqara is working on full HomeKit certification, expected in upcoming firmware updates.

What happened to the Aqara Doorbell’s battery life?

Early reviews noted shorter battery life (3-6 months) compared to competitors, but Aqara addressed this with a 2023 firmware update optimizing power consumption. Newer models now offer up to 8 months on a single charge.

Are there new Aqara Doorbell models coming in 2024?

Rumors suggest a 2024 Aqara Doorbell with 2K video, AI motion detection, and solar panel compatibility. While unconfirmed, Aqara’s recent patents hint at these upgrades for the next-gen device.

Why is the Aqara Doorbell out of stock everywhere?

High demand and component shortages have caused intermittent stock issues, especially for the G4 model. Aqara recommends checking authorized retailers monthly, as restocks typically occur quarterly.