How to Change Owner on Ring 2 Doorbell

This guide walks you through the complete process of changing the owner on a Ring 2 doorbell, whether you’re moving, gifting the device, or managing multiple users. You’ll learn how to transfer ownership via the Ring app, remove old accounts, and ensure seamless access for the new owner.

Key Takeaways

• Ownership transfer requires the current owner to initiate the process through the Ring app—new owners cannot claim a device without permission.
• Only one primary owner can be assigned per Ring device, but multiple shared users can be added for monitoring and alerts.
• Factory reset is necessary if the current owner is unavailable or if the device was purchased secondhand without access to the original account.
• Ensure your Ring 2 is connected to Wi-Fi and fully charged before starting the transfer to avoid interruptions.
• After transfer, the new owner must reinstall the Ring app and set up the device under their own account to activate features like motion alerts and live view.
• Always remove old devices from your account after transfer to maintain privacy and prevent accidental access.
• Contact Ring Support if you encounter errors during the process—they can assist with locked or unresponsive devices.

How to Change Owner on Ring 2 Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

So, you’ve got a Ring 2 doorbell—maybe you’re moving out, selling your home, or gifting it to a friend or family member. Whatever the reason, one thing’s for sure: you need to change the owner on your Ring 2 doorbell. But how exactly do you do that? Don’t worry—this guide has you covered.

Changing ownership of a Ring device isn’t as simple as unplugging it and handing it over. Ring devices are tied to user accounts for security and functionality, so transferring ownership requires a few key steps. Whether you’re the current owner looking to pass it on, or you’re the new owner trying to claim a secondhand device, this guide will walk you through the entire process—safely, legally, and without losing access to your home’s security.

In this comprehensive how-to, you’ll learn:
– What “ownership” means for your Ring 2 doorbell
– How to transfer ownership using the Ring app
– What to do if the current owner is unavailable
– How to factory reset your Ring 2
– Tips for avoiding common pitfalls
– Troubleshooting steps for stubborn devices

Let’s get started.

Understanding Ring Device Ownership

Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand how ownership works with Ring devices like the Ring 2 doorbell.

When you first set up your Ring 2, you created a Ring account and linked the device to it. That account becomes the primary owner. As the owner, you have full control over the device—viewing live video, receiving motion alerts, adjusting settings, and managing users.

Only one person can be the primary owner at a time. However, you can add shared users who can view the camera and receive alerts, but they can’t change device settings or transfer ownership.

Ownership transfer means moving the primary control from one Ring account to another. This is essential when:
– You’re moving and leaving the doorbell for the new homeowner
– You’re selling or giving away the device
– You bought a used Ring 2 and need to claim it
– You’re managing devices across multiple properties

The good news? Ring makes it relatively straightforward—if you follow the right steps.

Prerequisites Before Changing Ownership

Before you begin the transfer process, make sure you have the following:

1. Access to the Current Owner’s Ring Account

The current owner must log in to their Ring app to initiate the transfer. If you don’t have access—say, you bought a used Ring 2 from someone who no longer uses it—you’ll need to perform a factory reset (we’ll cover that later).

2. The New Owner’s Ring Account Information

The person receiving the device must have a Ring account set up. If they don’t, they’ll need to download the Ring app and create one using their email and phone number.

3. A Stable Wi-Fi Connection

Your Ring 2 needs to be connected to Wi-Fi during the transfer. Make sure the network is strong and reliable. Weak signals can cause the process to fail.

4. A Fully Charged Battery or Hardwired Power

If your Ring 2 is battery-powered, ensure it’s charged to at least 50%. If it’s hardwired, confirm the power is on. A dead battery can interrupt the transfer.

5. The Ring App Installed on a Smartphone or Tablet

Both the current and new owner should have the latest version of the Ring app installed. You can download it from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).

Once you’ve checked these boxes, you’re ready to proceed.

Step-by-Step: How to Transfer Ownership via the Ring App

If you’re the current owner and want to transfer your Ring 2 to someone else, follow these steps carefully.

Step 1: Open the Ring App

Launch the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged into the account that currently owns the Ring 2 doorbell.

Step 2: Navigate to Device Settings

Tap the three horizontal lines (menu icon) in the top-left corner. Then, select Devices from the menu. Find your Ring 2 doorbell in the list and tap on it.

Step 3: Access Device Health

On the device screen, scroll down and tap Device Health. This section shows the status of your doorbell, including battery level, Wi-Fi signal, and firmware version.

Step 4: Select “Remove Device”

Scroll to the bottom of the Device Health page and tap Remove Device. A confirmation message will appear, warning you that removing the device will disconnect it from your account.

Tap Remove to confirm.

> 💡 Pro Tip: Removing the device doesn’t delete it—it just disconnects it from your account. The new owner can then claim it during setup.

Step 5: Notify the New Owner

Let the new owner know the device has been removed. They can now proceed to set it up under their own Ring account.

Step 6: New Owner Sets Up the Device

The new owner should:
1. Open the Ring app and log in (or create an account).
2. Tap the + icon to add a new device.
3. Select Doorbells, then choose Ring Video Doorbell 2.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan the QR code on the back of the doorbell or enter the serial number manually.
5. Connect the doorbell to Wi-Fi and complete the setup.

Once setup is complete, the new owner will have full control over the device.

> ✅ Success! The ownership has been transferred. The new owner can now customize settings, add shared users, and receive alerts.

What If the Current Owner Is Unavailable?

Sometimes, you might find yourself in a situation where the current owner is unreachable—maybe you bought a used Ring 2 from a previous homeowner, or a family member passed away and left behind a Ring device.

In these cases, you can’t use the standard transfer method. Instead, you’ll need to perform a factory reset on the Ring 2. This wipes all account data and allows you to set it up as if it were brand new.

How to Factory Reset Your Ring 2 Doorbell

Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Locate the Orange Button

On the back of your Ring 2 doorbell, you’ll find a small orange button near the bottom. This is the reset button.

Step 2: Press and Hold the Button

Use a paperclip, SIM tool, or similar pointed object to press and hold the orange button for 15–20 seconds. You’ll see the LED light on the front of the doorbell flash white, then turn solid white.

> ⚠️ Important: Do not release the button too early. If you let go before 15 seconds, the reset may not complete.

Step 3: Wait for the Light to Turn Off

After holding the button, the LED will turn off. This means the factory reset is complete. The device is now unlinked from any previous account.

Step 4: Set Up as New Device

Now, you can set up the Ring 2 as if it were brand new:
1. Open the Ring app and log in to your account.
2. Tap the + icon and select Doorbells.
3. Choose Ring Video Doorbell 2.
4. Follow the setup instructions, including scanning the QR code and connecting to Wi-Fi.

Once complete, the device will be under your ownership.

> 🔐 Privacy Note: A factory reset ensures that no previous owner can access your camera or data. Always reset secondhand devices for security.

Adding Shared Users (Optional)

After ownership is transferred, the new owner may want to add family members or roommates as shared users. This allows others to view the camera and receive alerts without having full control.

How to Add a Shared User

1. Open the Ring app and go to the device.
2. Tap Settings (gear icon).
3. Select Users.
4. Tap Add User.
5. Enter the person’s email address and select their access level (e.g., “Viewer” or “Admin”).
6. Send the invitation.

The invited user will receive an email and can accept the invitation through the Ring app.

> 👥 Tip: Shared users can’t remove the device or transfer ownership—only the primary owner can do that.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful steps, things can go wrong. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.

Issue 1: “Device Not Found” During Setup

If the new owner can’t find the Ring 2 during setup:
– Make sure the device is powered on (check battery or wiring).
– Ensure it’s within Wi-Fi range.
– Try restarting the router and the Ring app.
– Perform a factory reset and try again.

Issue 2: QR Code Won’t Scan

The QR code on the back of the Ring 2 can sometimes be hard to scan.
– Clean the code with a soft cloth.
– Use good lighting.
– If scanning fails, tap “Enter Serial Number Manually” in the app and type it in.

Issue 3: Wi-Fi Connection Fails

Ring 2 requires a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network (it doesn’t support 5 GHz).
– Confirm your router broadcasts a 2.4 GHz network.
– Move the doorbell closer to the router during setup.
– Avoid networks with special characters or spaces in the name.

Issue 4: Device Still Shows Old Owner’s Name

If the device appears under the old owner’s account even after reset:
– The factory reset may not have completed. Repeat the reset process.
– The old owner may need to manually remove the device from their account.
– Contact Ring Support for assistance.

Issue 5: App Crashes or Freezes

– Close and reopen the Ring app.
– Restart your phone or tablet.
– Update the app to the latest version.
– Clear the app cache (Android) or reinstall (iOS).

Tips for a Smooth Ownership Transfer

To avoid headaches, keep these best practices in mind:

• Communicate clearly with the new owner. Share setup instructions and Wi-Fi details in advance.
• Test the device after transfer. Make sure live view, motion alerts, and recordings work properly.
• Update firmware. New owners should check for firmware updates in the Device Health section.
• Remove old devices from your account. After transfer, go to your Ring account settings and delete the device to free up space and protect privacy.
• Keep records. Save a screenshot of the transfer confirmation or factory reset for your records.

When to Contact Ring Support

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t transfer ownership, it’s time to reach out to Ring Support.

You can contact them via:
– Live Chat: Available in the Ring app under Help > Contact Us
– Phone: 1-800-637-4848 (U.S.)
– Email: [email protected]

Have the following ready:
– Device serial number (found on the back or in the app)
– Your Ring account email
– A description of the issue

Ring Support can help with:
– Devices stuck in another account
– Firmware issues
– Account verification problems
– Factory reset confirmation

> 🛎️ Note: Ring may ask for proof of purchase if you’re claiming a secondhand device.

Conclusion

Changing the owner on a Ring 2 doorbell doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re transferring ownership through the app or performing a factory reset for a secondhand device, the process is straightforward when you follow the right steps.

Remember:
– Only the current owner can initiate a transfer via the app.
– A factory reset is your best option if the owner is unavailable.
– Always ensure the device is powered and connected to Wi-Fi.
– Test the setup after transfer to confirm everything works.

By following this guide, you’ll ensure a smooth transition—keeping your home secure and your data private. Whether you’re moving, gifting, or upgrading, your Ring 2 doorbell will be ready for its new owner in no time.

Now go ahead—hand over that doorbell with confidence!