Adding a second phone to your Ring Doorbell lets multiple family members receive alerts and view live video. This guide walks you through the simple process using the Ring app, sharing access, and managing notifications.
Key Takeaways
- Multiple users can access one Ring Doorbell: You can invite family members or roommates to receive motion and doorbell alerts on their phones.
- Use the Ring app to share access: The primary account holder can send invitations via email or phone number within the app.
- Each user needs their own Ring account: Invited users must sign up for a free Ring account to accept the invitation.
- Customize notification settings per device: Each phone can have personalized alert preferences, like sound or vibration.
- Guest users have limited control: Invited users can view live video and receive alerts but cannot change device settings or delete recordings.
- Two-factor authentication improves security: Enable 2FA on all accounts to protect your Ring devices from unauthorized access.
- Troubleshooting tips solve common issues: If the second phone doesn’t connect, check internet, app updates, and invitation status.
How to Add a 2nd Phone to Ring Doorbell
Have you ever missed a delivery because you weren’t the one near your phone when the doorbell rang? Or maybe your partner wants to see who’s at the door while you’re in the backyard? Adding a second phone to your Ring Doorbell is a simple way to make sure everyone in your household stays connected and informed.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to add a second phone to your Ring Doorbell so multiple people can receive alerts, view live video, and respond to visitors—even when they’re not home. Whether you’re setting this up for your spouse, teen, roommate, or elderly parent, the process is quick, secure, and user-friendly.
We’ll walk you through every step, from inviting a new user to customizing their notification settings. You’ll also get practical tips, troubleshooting advice, and answers to common questions. By the end, you’ll have a fully shared Ring Doorbell system that keeps your home safe and your family in the loop.
Why Add a Second Phone to Your Ring Doorbell?
Ring Doorbells are designed to keep you connected to your front door, no matter where you are. But one phone isn’t enough for most households. Here’s why adding a second phone makes sense:
Visual guide about How to Add a 2nd Phone to Ring Doorbell
Image source: storables.com
- Shared responsibility: Everyone in the family can respond to visitors or packages.
- Peace of mind: If you’re away, someone else can check who’s at the door.
- Better security: More eyes mean quicker responses to suspicious activity.
- Convenience: No more missed alerts because only one person gets them.
For example, imagine your teenager comes home from school and rings the doorbell. If only your phone gets the alert and you’re in a meeting, they might be stuck outside. But if your spouse’s phone also receives the notification, they can let them in remotely.
Adding a second phone doesn’t just improve convenience—it strengthens your home’s security system by ensuring alerts are seen by more than one person.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Before you begin, make sure you have the following:
- A Ring Doorbell installed and working: Your device should be connected to Wi-Fi and functioning properly.
- The Ring app installed on both phones: Download the free Ring app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
- An active Ring account (primary user): You must be the owner of the Ring device to invite others.
- Email address or phone number of the second user: You’ll need this to send the invitation.
- Stable internet connection: Both phones should have Wi-Fi or cellular data.
It’s also a good idea to ensure both phones are updated to the latest version of their operating system and that the Ring app is up to date. Outdated software can cause connection issues.
Step-by-Step: How to Add a Second Phone to Ring Doorbell
Now that you’re prepared, let’s go through the process of adding a second phone to your Ring Doorbell. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth setup.
Step 1: Open the Ring App on the Primary Phone
Start by opening the Ring app on the phone that’s already connected to your doorbell—this is the primary account holder’s device.
Make sure you’re logged in to your Ring account. If you’re not, tap “Sign In” and enter your email and password.
Once you’re in, you’ll see your dashboard with your Ring devices listed. Tap on the doorbell you want to share.
Step 2: Access Device Settings
On the device screen, look for the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner. This is the settings menu.
Tap it to open the settings for your Ring Doorbell. You’ll see options like Motion Settings, Video Quality, and Device Sharing.
Step 3: Select “Device Sharing”
Scroll down until you find the “Device Sharing” option. Tap on it.
This section allows you to invite other people to access your Ring device. You can share access with family, friends, or trusted neighbors.
Step 4: Send an Invitation
Tap the “+” button or “Add Person” to start the invitation process.
You’ll be asked to enter the email address or phone number of the person you want to invite. Make sure it’s accurate—this is how they’ll receive the invitation.
After entering the contact info, tap “Send Invitation.” The person will receive a notification via email or text with a link to accept the invite.
Step 5: The Second User Accepts the Invitation
The second user must have the Ring app installed on their phone. If they don’t, they’ll need to download it first.
When they open the invitation link, they’ll be prompted to sign in to their Ring account or create one if they don’t have one.
Once they sign in, they’ll see your Ring Doorbell listed in their app under “Shared Devices.” They can now receive alerts and view live video.
Step 6: Customize Notification Settings (Optional)
Each user can customize how they receive alerts. On the second phone, open the Ring app and go to the shared doorbell.
Tap the settings icon and select “Notifications.” Here, they can choose:
- Whether to receive motion alerts
- Whether to receive doorbell rings
- Notification sound and vibration
- Do Not Disturb schedules
For example, your teen might want loud alerts during the day but silent notifications at night. Customizing these settings ensures everyone gets alerts the way they prefer.
Understanding User Roles and Permissions
When you add a second phone to your Ring Doorbell, it’s important to understand what that person can and cannot do.
There are two types of users:
- Owner (Primary User): The person who set up the device. They can change settings, delete recordings, invite others, and remove users.
- Shared User (Guest): Someone invited by the owner. They can view live video, receive alerts, and talk through the doorbell, but cannot change device settings or delete recordings.
This means the second phone user can see who’s at the door and even speak to them, but they can’t adjust motion zones or turn off recording. Only the primary account holder has full control.
If you want to give someone more access—like a trusted neighbor who watches your house while you’re away—you can still invite them, but explain the limitations.
Tips for a Smooth Setup
To make the process even easier, here are some practical tips:
- Use a strong Wi-Fi signal: Both phones should be connected to a reliable network. Weak signals can cause delays in alerts.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security. Go to Account Settings > Two-Factor Authentication and turn it on.
- Name your devices clearly: If you have multiple Ring devices, give them descriptive names like “Front Door” or “Back Porch” so users know which one they’re viewing.
- Test the connection: After setup, have the second user ring the doorbell or walk in front of it to confirm alerts work.
- Keep the app updated: Regularly check for app updates to ensure compatibility and access to new features.
For example, if you’re setting this up for your elderly parent, walk them through the app interface and show them how to answer the doorbell. A little training goes a long way.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful setup, you might run into problems. Here’s how to fix the most common issues when adding a second phone to Ring Doorbell.
Issue 1: The Second Phone Doesn’t Receive Alerts
If the invited user isn’t getting notifications, check the following:
- Is the Ring app open and running in the background?
- Are notifications enabled in the phone’s settings? (Go to Settings > Apps > Ring > Notifications)
- Is the user logged in to the correct Ring account?
- Is the invitation still pending? Have them check their email or phone for the invite link.
Sometimes, the app needs to be force-closed and reopened to refresh the connection.
Issue 2: The Invitation Link Doesn’t Work
If the second user clicks the link but gets an error, try these fixes:
- Make sure the link wasn’t copied incorrectly. Have them tap it directly from the email or text.
- Check if the invitation expired. Ring invitations are valid for 7 days. If it’s expired, resend it.
- Ensure the user is signing in with the same email or phone number you used to invite them.
If all else fails, remove the invitation and send a new one.
Issue 3: Live Video Doesn’t Load on the Second Phone
If the second user can see the doorbell in the app but can’t view live video, try this:
- Check their internet connection. A weak signal can prevent video streaming.
- Restart the Ring app and try again.
- Ensure the primary account hasn’t disabled live view for shared users (this is rare but possible in some settings).
- Update the Ring app to the latest version.
In most cases, a simple app restart resolves the issue.
Issue 4: The Second User Can’t Talk Through the Doorbell
If live video works but two-way audio doesn’t, check:
- Is the microphone enabled in the app? (Tap the mic icon during live view)
- Is the phone’s microphone working? Test it with another app like Voice Memos.
- Is the Ring Doorbell’s speaker and mic functioning? Test it from the primary phone.
Sometimes, audio permissions need to be granted in the phone’s settings. Go to Settings > Apps > Ring > Permissions and enable Microphone.
Managing Shared Users
As the primary account holder, you can manage who has access to your Ring Doorbell at any time.
To remove a user:
- Go to Device Sharing in the Ring app.
- Find the person’s name and tap the trash can icon or “Remove.”
- Confirm the removal.
They will immediately lose access to the device and stop receiving alerts.
You can also resend invitations if someone didn’t receive the first one, or change their notification preferences by guiding them through the app.
It’s a good idea to review shared users periodically—especially if someone moves out or no longer needs access.
Security Best Practices
Sharing your Ring Doorbell is convenient, but it’s important to protect your privacy and security.
Follow these best practices:
- Only invite trusted people: Avoid sharing access with strangers or casual acquaintances.
- Use strong passwords: Encourage all users to create unique, hard-to-guess passwords for their Ring accounts.
- Enable two-factor authentication: This prevents unauthorized access even if a password is compromised.
- Monitor activity: Check the Ring app’s event history to see who viewed recordings or answered the doorbell.
- Log out unused devices: If a shared user gets a new phone, remind them to log out of the old one.
For example, if you’re sharing access with a babysitter, remove them once their job ends. This keeps your home secure.
Conclusion
Adding a second phone to your Ring Doorbell is a smart, simple way to improve home security and convenience. With just a few taps in the Ring app, you can invite family members, roommates, or trusted neighbors to receive alerts and view live video.
Remember, only the primary account holder has full control, while shared users can view and respond but not change settings. Customize notifications, keep the app updated, and follow security best practices to get the most out of your shared setup.
Whether you’re keeping an eye on packages, checking on kids, or just making sure someone answers the door, sharing your Ring Doorbell ensures no alert goes unnoticed. Follow this guide, and you’ll have a connected, secure home in no time.