This guide walks you through how to add Arlo doorbell to Alexa so you can receive voice alerts, view live video, and manage your smart doorbell using your Amazon Echo device. With clear steps and troubleshooting tips, you’ll have seamless integration in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Enable the Arlo Skill in the Alexa app: This is the first and most important step to connect your Arlo doorbell to Alexa.
- Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network: A stable 2.4 GHz connection is required for reliable communication between Arlo and Alexa.
- Use the correct Arlo account credentials: Log in with the same email and password used in the Arlo app to avoid sync issues.
- Name your doorbell clearly for voice commands: Simple names like “Front Door” make it easier for Alexa to recognize your device.
- Test voice commands after setup: Say “Alexa, show me the front door” to confirm the video feed appears on your Echo Show or Fire TV.
- Update firmware regularly: Keep your Arlo doorbell and Alexa app updated to prevent compatibility problems.
- Use the Arlo app for advanced settings: Customize motion zones, alerts, and recording preferences from the Arlo app, not Alexa.
How to Add Arlo Doorbell to Alexa: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve got your shiny new Arlo doorbell installed and working perfectly. You love the crisp video, the motion alerts, and the two-way audio. But now you want to take it to the next level—by connecting it to your Amazon Alexa. Imagine walking into your living room, saying “Alexa, show me who’s at the door,” and instantly seeing a live feed on your Echo Show. Sounds awesome, right?
Well, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to add Arlo doorbell to Alexa in clear, simple steps. Whether you’re using an Echo Dot, Echo Show, or Fire TV, this setup will let you view live video, receive voice alerts, and even talk to visitors using just your voice.
We’ll cover everything from enabling the Arlo Skill to troubleshooting common issues. No tech degree required—just follow along, and you’ll have your smart doorbell talking to Alexa in under 15 minutes.
Why Connect Arlo Doorbell to Alexa?
Visual guide about How to Add Arlo Doorbell to Alexa
Image source: blog.arlo.com
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about why this integration is so useful.
First, **hands-free convenience**. If your hands are full—carrying groceries, holding a baby, or cooking dinner—you can still see who’s at the door without touching your phone. Just say, “Alexa, show me the front door,” and the live feed pops up on your Echo Show or Fire TV.
Second, **faster alerts**. When someone presses your Arlo doorbell, Alexa can announce it through your Echo devices. You’ll hear a chime and a voice saying, “Someone is at the front door.” No need to check your phone constantly.
Third, **better home automation**. Once connected, you can include your doorbell in routines. For example, when motion is detected, Alexa can turn on your porch light or send a notification to your phone.
And finally, **peace of mind**. Whether you’re at home or away, knowing you can check your doorbell with a simple voice command adds a layer of security and control.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Before we begin, make sure you have the following:
- A compatible Arlo doorbell: This includes the Arlo Essential Video Doorbell, Arlo Video Doorbell (Wired or Wire-Free), or Arlo Pro 4 Doorbell.
- An Amazon Echo device: Echo Dot, Echo Show, Echo Plus, or any Alexa-enabled speaker with a screen (like Echo Show 5, 8, or 10).
- The Arlo app installed on your smartphone: Available for iOS and Android. Make sure it’s updated to the latest version.
- The Alexa app installed: Also available for iOS and Android. Again, keep it updated.
- A stable Wi-Fi connection: Your Arlo doorbell must be connected to a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. Alexa devices also need internet access.
- Your Arlo account login details: Email and password used to set up your doorbell.
If you’re missing any of these, pause here and get them ready. The setup will go much smoother.
Step 1: Set Up Your Arlo Doorbell
If you haven’t already set up your Arlo doorbell, do that first. Here’s a quick recap:
Install the Doorbell
If it’s a wired model, turn off power at the breaker, remove your old doorbell, and connect the Arlo wires. For wire-free models, simply mount it using the included bracket.
Download the Arlo App
Search for “Arlo” in the App Store or Google Play and download the official app.
Create or Log In to Your Arlo Account
Open the app and sign in with your existing account or create a new one.
Add Your Doorbell
Tap the “+” icon, select “Video Doorbell,” and follow the on-screen instructions. The app will guide you through connecting to Wi-Fi, naming your device, and testing the video feed.
Test the Doorbell
Press the button or walk in front of it to trigger motion. Make sure you receive alerts and can view the live feed in the app.
Once your doorbell is working in the Arlo app, you’re ready to connect it to Alexa.
Step 2: Enable the Arlo Skill in the Alexa App
The Arlo Skill is what allows Alexa to communicate with your Arlo devices. Here’s how to enable it:
Open the Alexa App
Launch the app on your phone and tap the menu icon (three lines) in the top-left corner.
Go to Skills & Games
Scroll down and select “Skills & Games.”
Search for “Arlo”
Use the search bar at the top and type “Arlo.” Look for the official “Arlo” skill by Arlo Technologies.
Enable the Skill
Tap on the skill, then press “Enable to Use.” You’ll be redirected to a login page.
Log In with Your Arlo Account
Enter the same email and password you used in the Arlo app. This links your Arlo account to Alexa.
Authorize the Connection
Tap “Allow” to give Alexa permission to access your Arlo devices.
Once enabled, Alexa will automatically discover your Arlo doorbell. This may take a minute or two.
Step 3: Discover Your Arlo Doorbell in Alexa
After enabling the skill, Alexa needs to find your doorbell. Here’s how:
Ask Alexa to Discover Devices
Say, “Alexa, discover devices,” or go to the Alexa app, tap “Devices,” then “+” and “Add Device.” Select “Camera” and let Alexa scan.
Wait for Discovery
Alexa will search for new devices. Your Arlo doorbell should appear in the list.
Confirm the Device
Tap on your doorbell to add it. Alexa may ask you to confirm the name.
Rename if Needed
If the name is confusing (like “Arlo Doorbell 1”), tap the device, go to “Edit Name,” and change it to something simple like “Front Door.”
Now your doorbell is connected to Alexa!
Step 4: Test the Connection
Let’s make sure everything works:
Test Voice Commands
Say, “Alexa, show me the front door.” If you have an Echo Show or Fire TV, the live feed should appear.
Test Doorbell Alerts
Press your Arlo doorbell button. Alexa should announce, “Someone is at the front door,” and show a notification.
Test Two-Way Audio
Say, “Alexa, talk to the front door.” You should hear the visitor through your Echo speaker, and they should hear you through the doorbell.
If any of these don’t work, don’t worry—we’ll troubleshoot in a moment.
Step 5: Customize Your Experience
Now that it’s working, let’s make it even better.
Set Up Doorbells Alerts
In the Alexa app, go to “Settings” > “Notifications” > “Doorbell Press.” Choose which Echo devices should announce the doorbell.
Create Routines
Go to “Routines” in the Alexa app and create a new one. For example:
– When “Doorbell Press” is detected, turn on the porch light.
– When motion is detected, send a notification to your phone.
Adjust Video Quality
In the Arlo app, go to your doorbell settings and adjust video quality, motion sensitivity, and recording length. Higher quality uses more bandwidth, so balance it with your Wi-Fi speed.
Enable Night Vision
Make sure night vision is turned on in the Arlo app so you can see visitors after dark.
Use the Arlo App for Advanced Features
Alexa is great for basic commands, but use the Arlo app for things like:
– Setting motion zones
– Reviewing recorded clips
– Managing subscriptions (like Arlo Secure)
– Adjusting privacy settings
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with perfect setup, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most common problems.
Alexa Can’t Find My Arlo Doorbell
– Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
– Restart your Arlo doorbell by removing the battery (if wire-free) or turning off power (if wired) for 10 seconds.
– Disable and re-enable the Arlo Skill in the Alexa app.
– Update the Arlo and Alexa apps to the latest versions.
No Video Feed on Echo Show
– Check that your Echo Show is connected to Wi-Fi.
– Say, “Alexa, show me the front door” again.
– Ensure your Arlo doorbell has a strong Wi-Fi signal (check in the Arlo app).
– Restart your Echo device.
Alexa Doesn’t Announce Doorbell Press
– Go to “Settings” > “Notifications” > “Doorbell Press” and make sure your Echo devices are selected.
– Check that Do Not Disturb is turned off.
– Ensure your doorbell is properly linked in the Arlo Skill.
Two-Way Audio Not Working
– Make sure your Echo device has a microphone and speaker.
– Check that the volume is turned up.
– Test in a quiet environment—background noise can interfere.
– Re-link the Arlo Skill if the issue persists.
Delayed or Laggy Video
– Your Wi-Fi may be slow. Run a speed test.
– Move your router closer to the doorbell or use a Wi-Fi extender.
– Reduce video quality in the Arlo app.
– Avoid using 5 GHz Wi-Fi—Arlo doorbells only work on 2.4 GHz.
Skill Fails to Link
– Double-check your Arlo login credentials.
– Log out and back into the Arlo app.
– Clear the cache in the Alexa app (Settings > Apps > Alexa > Storage > Clear Cache).
– Try enabling the skill from a different device.
Tips for the Best Experience
Here are some pro tips to get the most out of your Arlo-Alexa setup:
- Use a strong Wi-Fi signal: Place your router centrally or use a mesh network to ensure full coverage.
- Name devices clearly: Avoid names like “Doorbell 1” or “Camera A.” Use “Front Door,” “Back Porch,” etc.
- Update firmware regularly: Arlo and Amazon release updates that improve performance and security.
- Use a dedicated 2.4 GHz network: If your router broadcasts both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, create a separate network name for 2.4 GHz devices.
- Test during setup: Don’t wait until someone rings the doorbell—test voice commands right after linking.
- Keep subscriptions active: If you want cloud recordings, make sure your Arlo Secure plan is active.
Conclusion
Connecting your Arlo doorbell to Alexa is a smart move that adds convenience, security, and peace of mind. With just a few taps in the Alexa app, you can view live video, receive voice alerts, and even talk to visitors—all without lifting a finger.
We’ve walked you through every step: enabling the Arlo Skill, discovering your device, testing commands, and troubleshooting common issues. Now it’s your turn. Open the Alexa app, follow the steps, and enjoy the magic of voice-controlled home security.
Once it’s set up, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Whether you’re cooking, working, or relaxing, your Arlo doorbell and Alexa will work together seamlessly.
So go ahead—say “Alexa, show me the front door” and see the future of smart homes in action.