Connecting another phone to your Ring doorbell allows multiple users to receive alerts, view live video, and answer the door remotely. This guide walks you through the process using the Ring app, sharing access securely and efficiently.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring app to share access: The primary method to connect another phone is by inviting users through the Ring app’s “Shared Users” feature.
- Ensure both devices have the latest app version: Compatibility issues often arise from outdated software—always update before connecting.
- Grant appropriate permissions: Choose between “Owner,” “Admin,” or “User” roles to control what the new phone can do.
- Verify Wi-Fi and location settings: Both phones must have stable internet and location services enabled for full functionality.
- Troubleshoot common issues: If the new phone doesn’t receive alerts, check notification settings, app permissions, and device compatibility.
- Revoke access anytime: You can remove a shared user at any time through the Ring app for security and privacy.
- Use two-factor authentication: Protect your account and shared access by enabling 2FA on your Ring account.
How to Connect Another Phone to a Ring Doorbell
So, you’ve installed your Ring doorbell and it’s working great—motion alerts, live view, two-way talk—all smooth. But now, your spouse, roommate, or a trusted family member wants to get alerts and answer the door from their phone too. No problem! Ring makes it easy to connect another phone to your doorbell so multiple people can stay in the loop.
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through how to connect another phone to a Ring doorbell step by step. Whether you’re sharing access with a partner, teen, or caregiver, you’ll learn how to do it safely, securely, and without any technical headaches. We’ll cover everything from sending the invitation to troubleshooting common issues, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is monitored by everyone who matters.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to add a new user, manage permissions, and keep your Ring system running smoothly across multiple devices.
Why Share Access to Your Ring Doorbell?
Visual guide about How to Connect Another Phone to a Ring Doorbell
Image source: storables.com
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about why you might want to connect another phone to your Ring doorbell. There are several practical reasons:
- Family safety: If you have kids or elderly parents at home, giving them access means they can see who’s at the door and communicate safely.
- Shared living spaces: Roommates, partners, or co-parents can all stay informed about deliveries, visitors, or suspicious activity.
- Remote monitoring: If you’re away, a trusted friend or neighbor can check in and respond to alerts on your behalf.
- Convenience: No more missed packages or surprise guests—everyone gets real-time notifications.
Sharing access doesn’t mean giving up control. As the owner, you decide who gets access and what they can do. It’s a smart way to enhance home security without buying extra devices.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Before connecting another phone to your Ring doorbell, make sure you have the following:
- A Ring account: You must be the owner or admin of the Ring device.
- The Ring app installed: Both your phone and the new phone need the latest version of the Ring app (available on iOS and Android).
- An email address for the new user: You’ll need their email to send the invitation.
- Stable Wi-Fi connection: Both devices should be connected to the internet.
- Location services enabled: Required for motion detection and accurate alerts.
Having these ready will make the process quick and hassle-free.
Step-by-Step: How to Connect Another Phone to a Ring Doorbell
Now, let’s get into the actual steps. We’ll guide you through the process of inviting a new user and connecting their phone to your Ring doorbell.
Step 1: Open the Ring App on Your Phone
Start by opening the Ring app on your smartphone. Make sure you’re logged into the account that owns the doorbell. If you have multiple Ring devices, ensure you’re viewing the correct one.
Once the app loads, tap on the menu icon (usually three horizontal lines) in the top-left corner. This will open the main navigation menu.
Step 2: Go to Device Settings
From the menu, scroll down and tap on “Devices”. You’ll see a list of all your Ring devices—doorbell, cameras, alarms, etc.
Tap on the specific Ring doorbell you want to share. This will open the device’s control panel, where you can view live video, check motion history, and adjust settings.
Step 3: Access Shared Users
In the device control panel, look for the “Shared Users” option. It’s usually located under the “Device Settings” or “People” section, depending on your app version.
Tap on “Shared Users”. You’ll see a list of anyone already connected to the doorbell. If this is your first time sharing, the list will be empty.
Step 4: Invite a New User
Tap the “Add Shared User” button (it may appear as a “+” icon or “Invite” button). You’ll be prompted to enter the email address of the person you want to invite.
Type in their email address carefully. Make sure it’s the one they use for their smartphone and Ring account (if they have one). If they don’t have a Ring account yet, they’ll be prompted to create one when they accept the invitation.
Step 5: Choose User Permissions
After entering the email, you’ll be asked to select the user’s permission level. Ring offers three options:
- Owner: Full control, including adding/removing devices and other users. Only one owner per device.
- Admin: Can view live video, receive alerts, and manage some settings—but can’t remove the owner or delete the device.
- User: Can view live video and receive alerts, but can’t change settings or invite others.
For most cases, “User” or “Admin” is sufficient. Choose based on how much control you want the new person to have.
Tap “Send Invitation” to complete the process.
Step 6: The New User Accepts the Invitation
Now, the person you invited will receive an email with a link to join your Ring doorbell. They need to:
- Open the email on their smartphone.
- Tap the invitation link.
- Download the Ring app (if they don’t have it).
- Create a Ring account or log in if they already have one.
- Accept the invitation.
Once they accept, their phone will be connected to your Ring doorbell. They’ll start receiving motion alerts, doorbell rings, and be able to view live video—just like you.
Tips for a Smooth Connection
To ensure the new phone connects without issues, follow these practical tips:
1. Use the Same Wi-Fi Network (Initially)
While not required, it’s easier if both phones are on the same Wi-Fi network when setting up. This helps with initial syncing and reduces connection errors.
2. Update the Ring App
Outdated apps can cause compatibility problems. Before inviting a new user, check that both phones have the latest version of the Ring app. Go to your device’s app store and search for updates.
3. Enable Notifications
Make sure the new user enables notifications for the Ring app on their phone. Without this, they won’t receive alerts when someone rings the doorbell or motion is detected.
On iPhone: Go to Settings > Notifications > Ring > Allow Notifications.
On Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Ring > Notifications > Enable.
4. Check Location Services
Ring uses location data to improve motion detection and provide accurate alerts. Ensure the new user has location services enabled for the Ring app.
On iPhone: Settings > Privacy > Location Services > Ring > While Using the App.
On Android: Settings > Apps > Ring > Permissions > Location > Allow.
5. Use a Strong Wi-Fi Signal
A weak Wi-Fi connection can cause delays or failed live views. If the new user is far from the doorbell, consider using a Wi-Fi extender or placing the router closer to the device.
Managing Shared Users
Once someone is connected, you can manage their access at any time. Here’s how:
View Current Shared Users
Go back to the Ring app > Devices > Your Doorbell > Shared Users. You’ll see a list of everyone with access.
Change Permissions
Tap on a user’s name to change their role (e.g., from User to Admin). This is useful if you want to give them more control later.
Remove a User
If someone no longer needs access—like a former roommate or temporary helper—you can remove them instantly.
Tap on their name in the Shared Users list, then select “Remove Access”. Confirm the action, and they’ll lose all access to the doorbell immediately.
This is a great security feature. You don’t have to worry about old users still getting alerts or viewing your feed.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful setup, sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are solutions to the most common problems when connecting another phone to a Ring doorbell.
Issue 1: The Invitation Email Isn’t Received
Sometimes, the invitation email ends up in the spam or junk folder. Ask the new user to check there first.
If it’s not there, try resending the invitation. Go to Shared Users > tap the three dots next to the pending invite > “Resend Invitation.”
Also, double-check that you entered the correct email address. A typo can prevent delivery.
Issue 2: The New Phone Doesn’t Receive Alerts
If the new user can open the app and view the doorbell but isn’t getting notifications, check:
- App notifications are enabled (as described earlier).
- The phone isn’t in Do Not Disturb mode.
- The Ring app has permission to send alerts.
- The user hasn’t muted the device in the app.
To unmute: Open the Ring app > tap the doorbell > tap the bell icon to toggle alerts on.
Issue 3: Live View Won’t Load
If the new user can’t see live video, it could be due to:
- Poor internet connection on their phone.
- Outdated app version.
- Firewall or parental controls blocking the app.
- Too many devices connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Try restarting the app, reconnecting to Wi-Fi, or having them use mobile data to test.
Issue 4: “Device Not Found” Error
If the new user sees a “Device Not Found” message, it usually means the invitation wasn’t accepted properly.
Ask them to log out of the Ring app, restart it, and log back in. Then, check if the doorbell appears under “Devices.”
If not, resend the invitation and make sure they accept it while logged into the correct account.
Issue 5: Delayed or Missed Alerts
Alerts should arrive within a few seconds. If there’s a delay:
- Check the doorbell’s Wi-Fi signal strength in the app (Device Health > Signal Strength).
- Move the router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Reduce interference from other devices (microwaves, cordless phones).
- Update the doorbell’s firmware via the app.
Security Best Practices
Sharing access is convenient, but it’s important to do it securely. Follow these tips to protect your home and privacy:
Use Strong Passwords
Ensure both your Ring account and the shared user’s account use strong, unique passwords. Avoid common phrases or personal info.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
2FA adds an extra layer of security. When enabled, users must enter a code sent to their phone when logging in.
To enable: Ring app > Menu > Account Settings > Two-Factor Authentication > Turn On.
Limit Admin Access
Only give “Admin” or “Owner” roles to people you fully trust. Most users only need “User” access to view and respond.
Review Shared Users Regularly
Periodically check who has access to your doorbell. Remove anyone who no longer needs it—like a babysitter after the job ends.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Setup
When inviting a new user, avoid using public Wi-Fi (like at a coffee shop). Use a secure, private network to prevent interception.
Can You Connect Multiple Phones?
Yes! Ring allows you to connect multiple phones to a single doorbell. There’s no strict limit, but performance may degrade if too many devices are actively using the live view at once.
In practice, 5–10 shared users work well for most households. Just remember: each person needs their own Ring account and must accept the invitation.
What If the New Phone Is a Different Brand?
No problem. The Ring app works on both iOS (iPhone) and Android devices. Whether the new phone is a Samsung, Google Pixel, iPhone, or another brand, as long as it supports the Ring app, it can connect.
Just make sure the device meets the minimum system requirements:
- iOS: iPhone 6 or later, iOS 13 or higher.
- Android: Android 7.0 (Nougat) or higher, with Google Play Services.
Older or unsupported devices may not work properly.
Alternatives to Sharing Access
If you don’t want to share your main Ring account, consider these alternatives:
Create a Separate Ring Account
You can set up a second Ring account and link it as a shared user. This keeps your personal settings and history separate.
Use Ring Groups (for Multiple Properties)
If you manage multiple homes (like a rental property), Ring Groups let you organize devices by location and assign users accordingly.
Gift a Ring Device
For long-term sharing (like with adult children), consider gifting them their own Ring doorbell. They can monitor their own home while you stay connected.
Conclusion
Connecting another phone to your Ring doorbell is a simple and powerful way to enhance home security and convenience. Whether you’re sharing access with a partner, teen, or trusted neighbor, the process is straightforward using the Ring app’s built-in sharing features.
By following this guide, you’ve learned how to invite users, set permissions, troubleshoot issues, and keep your system secure. Remember to update your app, enable notifications, and review shared access regularly.
With multiple phones connected, your entire household can stay informed, respond quickly, and feel safer—no matter who’s at the door.
So go ahead, send that invitation, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with shared security.