This guide walks you through the simple process of connecting another phone to your Ring doorbell. You’ll learn how to share access, manage permissions, and troubleshoot common issues so multiple users can receive alerts and view live video.
Key Takeaways
- Share access via the Ring app: Use the “Shared Users” feature to invite others to your Ring devices without sharing your login.
- No need for multiple accounts: One Ring account can manage multiple users, making it easy for families or roommates to stay connected.
- Customize notification settings: Each user can adjust their own alerts, so they only get notified when needed.
- Ensure strong Wi-Fi and app updates: A stable connection and updated app prevent syncing and notification issues.
- Revoke access anytime: You can remove shared users instantly if someone no longer needs access.
- Use two-factor authentication: Keep your account secure while allowing others to use your doorbell.
- Troubleshoot common problems: Learn quick fixes for login errors, delayed alerts, or failed connections.
How to Connect Another Phone to Ring Doorbell
If you’ve installed a Ring doorbell, you already know how convenient it is to see who’s at your door—even when you’re not home. But what if you want your partner, roommate, or family member to also receive alerts and view live video? The good news is, Ring makes it easy to connect another phone to your doorbell without sharing your login credentials.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of connecting another phone to your Ring doorbell. You’ll learn how to share access securely, manage user permissions, and troubleshoot common issues. Whether you’re setting this up for the first time or adding a new user, this guide has everything you need.
By the end, you’ll be able to confidently share your Ring doorbell with others, ensuring everyone in your household stays informed and safe.
Why Share Your Ring Doorbell?
Before diving into the steps, let’s talk about why you might want to connect another phone to your Ring doorbell.
First, shared access improves home security. If you’re at work and your spouse is home, they can see who’s ringing the doorbell and respond accordingly. This is especially helpful for deliveries, unexpected visitors, or emergencies.
Second, it reduces notification overload. Instead of one person getting all the alerts, you can distribute them among family members. For example, your teenager might want to know when friends arrive, while you only want alerts after dark.
Third, it’s great for roommates or Airbnb hosts. If you rent out a room or manage a short-term rental, giving temporary access to guests ensures they can use the doorbell without needing your password.
Finally, it promotes accountability. When multiple people have access, there’s less chance of missed packages or ignored visitors.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, make sure you have the following:
- A Ring doorbell (any model: Video Doorbell, Doorbell Pro, Doorbell Elite, etc.)
- The Ring app installed on your phone (iOS or Android)
- The phone you want to connect (must have the Ring app installed)
- Your Ring account login details
- A stable Wi-Fi connection
- The email address of the person you want to invite
It’s also a good idea to ensure both phones have the latest version of the Ring app. You can check this in your device’s app store.
Step-by-Step: How to Connect Another Phone to Ring Doorbell
Now, let’s get into the actual process. We’ll cover two main methods: inviting a shared user and manually adding a device to another account. The first method is recommended for most users.
Method 1: Invite a Shared User (Recommended)
This is the easiest and most secure way to connect another phone to your Ring doorbell. It allows you to grant access without sharing your login.
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your phone. Make sure you’re logged into the account that owns the doorbell.
Step 2: Go to Device Settings
Tap the three horizontal lines (menu icon) in the top-left corner. Then, select Devices from the menu.
Find your doorbell in the list and tap on it. This will open the device dashboard.
Step 3: Access Shared Users
Scroll down and tap on Shared Users. This section lets you manage who has access to your doorbell.
Step 4: Invite a New User
Tap the + Add Shared User button. You’ll be prompted to enter the email address of the person you want to invite.
Make sure you use the email associated with their Ring account. If they don’t have one, they’ll need to create a free Ring account first.
Step 5: Choose Permissions
After entering the email, you’ll see options to customize their access. You can choose from:
- Live View Only: They can see live video but can’t view recordings or change settings.
- Live View and Motion Alerts: They get motion and doorbell alerts and can view live video.
- Full Access: They can view recordings, change settings, and manage the device (use with caution).
For most people, Live View and Motion Alerts is the best choice. It gives them full functionality without risking accidental changes.
Step 6: Send the Invitation
Tap Send Invitation. The person will receive an email with a link to accept the invite.
Step 7: Accept the Invitation on the Other Phone
On the other phone, open the email and tap the link. This will open the Ring app (or prompt them to download it).
They’ll need to log in to their Ring account or create one if they don’t have one. Once logged in, they’ll see the invitation and can tap Accept.
Step 8: Confirm Access
Back on your phone, go to Shared Users again. You should now see the new user listed with their permission level.
They can now open the Ring app on their phone, and your doorbell will appear in their device list. They’ll receive alerts and can view live video just like you.
Method 2: Add Device to Another Account (Advanced)
This method is less common and not recommended unless you have a specific reason. It involves transferring ownership of the device to another account. Use this only if you’re setting up a doorbell for someone else (e.g., a new tenant).
Step 1: Remove Device from Your Account
Go to Devices > select your doorbell > tap the gear icon (settings) > scroll down and tap Remove Device.
Confirm the removal. This will disconnect the doorbell from your account.
Step 2: Set Up on the Other Phone
On the other phone, open the Ring app and log in to the new account.
Tap the + icon and select Add Device. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the doorbell as if it were new.
This method requires reconfiguring Wi-Fi and motion settings, so it’s more time-consuming.
Tips for a Smooth Setup
To ensure everything works perfectly, follow these practical tips:
- Use the same Wi-Fi network: Both phones should be connected to the same network during setup to avoid syncing issues.
- Check app permissions: Make sure the Ring app has permission to send notifications on both phones.
- Test the connection: After setup, ring the doorbell or walk in front of it to confirm both phones receive alerts.
- Keep the app updated: Outdated apps can cause bugs or missing features.
- Use strong passwords: Encourage shared users to use strong, unique passwords for their Ring accounts.
Managing Shared Users
Once someone is connected, you can manage their access at any time.
View Current Shared Users
Go to Devices > select your doorbell > Shared Users. You’ll see a list of everyone with access.
Change Permissions
Tap on a user’s name to modify their permissions. You can upgrade or downgrade their access as needed.
Remove a User
If someone no longer needs access (e.g., a former roommate), tap their name and select Remove User. They’ll lose access immediately.
Revoke Access Remotely
Even if the person is far away, you can remove them from your account instantly. This is useful for security.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, connecting another phone doesn’t go as planned. Here are solutions to common problems.
Problem: Invitation Not Received
If the other person doesn’t get the email, check the following:
Visual guide about How to Connect Another Phone to Ring Doorbell
Image source: storables.com
- Did you enter the correct email address?
- Is the email in their spam or junk folder?
- Did they check the email on the right device?
Try resending the invitation. If it still doesn’t work, ask them to check their Ring account email settings.
Problem: Can’t Accept Invitation
If the link doesn’t work or the app crashes:
- Make sure the Ring app is updated.
- Try opening the link in a browser instead of the app.
- Log out and back into the Ring account.
If all else fails, remove the user and send a new invitation.
Problem: No Alerts on the Second Phone
If the second phone isn’t getting notifications:
- Check notification settings in the Ring app: Go to More > App Settings > Notifications.
- Ensure the doorbell is set to send alerts: Go to the device settings and check motion and ring alerts.
- Restart the phone and reopen the app.
Also, make sure the phone isn’t in Do Not Disturb mode.
Problem: Live View Not Working
If the second phone can’t see live video:
- Check Wi-Fi strength at the doorbell location.
- Ensure both phones have a strong internet connection.
- Restart the Ring app and try again.
If the issue persists, try removing and re-adding the shared user.
Problem: Device Not Showing Up
If the doorbell doesn’t appear in the second phone’s app:
- Confirm the invitation was accepted.
- Check that the user has the correct permissions.
- Log out and back into the Ring app on the second phone.
Sometimes, it takes a few minutes for the device to sync across accounts.
Security Best Practices
Sharing access doesn’t mean compromising security. Follow these tips to keep your account safe:
- Use two-factor authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA on your Ring account to prevent unauthorized access.
- Limit full access: Only give full control to trusted individuals.
- Monitor activity: Check the Event History to see who viewed recordings or changed settings.
- Change passwords regularly: Update your Ring password every few months.
- Log out unused devices: If someone hasn’t used the app in a while, consider removing them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I connect more than one phone to my Ring doorbell?
Yes, you can invite multiple shared users. There’s no strict limit, but Ring recommends keeping it under 10 for performance reasons.
Do shared users need a Ring Protect plan?
No, shared users can view live video and receive alerts for free. However, to view recordings, they’ll need access to a Ring Protect plan linked to your account.
Can I share my doorbell with someone in another country?
Yes, as long as they have a Ring account and a compatible phone. Internet speed may affect video quality.
What if the other person doesn’t have a smartphone?
They’ll need a smartphone or tablet to use the Ring app. There’s no web-only version for live viewing.
Can I share my doorbell with a child?
Yes, but set their permissions to Live View Only to prevent accidental changes. Monitor their usage.
Will shared users see my other Ring devices?
Only if you share those devices too. You can choose which devices to share with each user.
Conclusion
Connecting another phone to your Ring doorbell is a simple process that enhances security and convenience for everyone in your household. By using the Shared Users feature, you can grant access safely without sharing your login.
Whether you’re setting this up for a family member, roommate, or guest, the steps are straightforward and take just a few minutes. Remember to customize permissions, keep your app updated, and follow security best practices.
With this guide, you’re now equipped to share your Ring doorbell confidently. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that multiple people can stay informed and respond to visitors—no matter where they are.