This guide walks you through how to connect Arlo doorbell to Alexa so you can receive voice notifications, view live video on Echo Show devices, and control your smart doorbell using voice commands. With clear steps and troubleshooting tips, you’ll have your Arlo doorbell working seamlessly with Alexa in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Prerequisites matter: Ensure your Arlo doorbell is properly installed, connected to Wi-Fi, and linked to the Arlo app before integrating with Alexa.
- Link Arlo to Alexa via the Alexa app: Use the “Skills & Games” feature to enable the official Arlo skill and sign in with your Arlo account.
- Discover devices automatically: After enabling the skill, ask Alexa to discover new devices so she can detect your Arlo doorbell.
- Use compatible Echo devices: Only Echo Show, Echo Spot, and Fire TV devices support live video streaming from Arlo doorbells.
- Customize notifications: Adjust Alexa alert settings to reduce false triggers or silence alerts during specific hours.
- Troubleshoot common issues: Re-link accounts, check Wi-Fi strength, or restart devices if the doorbell doesn’t appear in Alexa.
- Enjoy hands-free convenience: Say “Alexa, show me the front door” to view live footage or “Alexa, answer the doorbell” to interact with visitors.
How to Connect Arlo Doorbell to Alexa: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
So you’ve got your shiny new Arlo doorbell installed and working perfectly—great job! But now you’re wondering: How do I connect Arlo doorbell to Alexa? You want to see who’s at the door without pulling out your phone, hear voice alerts when someone rings, or even talk to visitors using just your voice. The good news? It’s easier than you think.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step to seamlessly integrate your Arlo doorbell with Amazon Alexa. Whether you’re using an Echo Dot, Echo Show, or Fire TV, you’ll learn how to enable the Arlo skill, link your accounts, discover your device, and start enjoying hands-free smart home convenience. We’ll also cover common pitfalls and how to fix them—so you won’t get stuck halfway through.
By the end of this article, you’ll be able to say things like “Alexa, show me the front door” and instantly see live video on your Echo Show screen. Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Before you dive into connecting your Arlo doorbell to Alexa, make sure you have everything set up correctly. Skipping these basics is one of the most common reasons people run into issues later.
Visual guide about How to Connect Arlo Doorbell to Alexa
Image source: blog.arlo.com
1. A Fully Installed and Working Arlo Doorbell
Your Arlo doorbell must be physically installed and functioning properly. This means it’s powered (either wired or battery-operated), connected to your home Wi-Fi network, and responding in the Arlo mobile app. If you haven’t done this yet, refer to Arlo’s official installation guide first.
2. The Latest Version of the Arlo App
Download the Arlo app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and ensure it’s updated to the latest version. Older versions may not support full Alexa integration or could cause syncing errors.
3. An Active Arlo Account
You’ll need to log in to your Arlo account during the Alexa setup process. If you don’t have one, create it for free in the Arlo app. Make sure you remember your login credentials—you’ll need them again when linking to Alexa.
4. An Amazon Alexa-Compatible Device
Not all Echo devices support video streaming from Arlo. Here’s what works:
- Echo Show (all models) – Full video and two-way audio support
- Echo Spot – Video streaming and basic interaction
- Fire TV Stick or Fire TV Cube – View live feed on your TV
Standard Echo Dots and Echo speakers do not support video—they can only announce doorbell presses with voice alerts.
5. The Alexa App Installed on Your Phone
You’ll use the Alexa app (available for iOS and Android) to enable the Arlo skill and link your accounts. Make sure it’s also up to date.
6. Strong Wi-Fi Signal at the Doorbell Location
Weak Wi-Fi can cause lag, disconnections, or failed integrations. Use a Wi-Fi extender if your doorbell is far from your router. Arlo recommends at least 2 Mbps upload speed for smooth performance.
Step 1: Enable the Arlo Skill in the Alexa App
The first step to connect Arlo doorbell to Alexa is enabling the official Arlo skill. Think of this as giving Alexa permission to talk to your Arlo devices.
Open the Alexa App
Launch the Alexa app on your smartphone or tablet. Tap the menu icon (usually three lines in the top-left corner) and select “Skills & Games.”
Search for the Arlo Skill
In the search bar at the top, type “Arlo” and tap the magnifying glass. Look for the official skill titled “Arlo by Netgear”—it should have a blue icon with the Arlo logo.
Enable the Skill
Tap on the Arlo skill, then press the “Enable” button. You’ll be redirected to a login screen where you’ll enter your Arlo account email and password.
Pro Tip: If you have two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled on your Arlo account, make sure you have access to your authentication app or SMS to complete the login.
Grant Permissions
After logging in, Alexa will ask for permission to access your Arlo devices. Tap “Allow” to grant access. This lets Alexa see your doorbell, cameras, and other Arlo devices linked to your account.
Once enabled, you’ll see a confirmation message saying the skill is now active. You’re ready for the next step!
Step 2: Discover Your Arlo Doorbell in Alexa
Now that Alexa knows about Arlo, it’s time to find your specific doorbell device.
Ask Alexa to Discover Devices
Say: “Alexa, discover devices.” Alternatively, you can do this manually in the app:
- Go to Devices in the Alexa app
- Tap the “+” icon
- Select Add Device
- Choose Camera, then Arlo
- Tap Start and wait for Alexa to scan
Alexa will search for any Arlo devices linked to your account. This usually takes 10–30 seconds. If successful, your Arlo doorbell should appear in the list with a name like “Front Door” or “Arlo Doorbell.”
Rename Your Device (Optional)
To make voice commands easier, rename your doorbell something simple like “Front Door” or “Main Door.” In the Alexa app:
- Go to Devices > Cameras
- Tap your Arlo doorbell
- Select Edit next to the device name
- Type a new name and save
Now you can say “Alexa, show me the front door” instead of “Alexa, show me Arlo Doorbell Model XYZ.”
Step 3: Test Voice Commands and Live View
Time to put your setup to the test! Try these common voice commands to ensure everything works:
Basic Video Commands
- “Alexa, show me the front door.” – Opens live video on Echo Show or Fire TV
- “Alexa, hide the front door.” – Closes the video feed
- “Alexa, zoom in/out on the front door.” – Adjusts camera view (if supported)
Doorbell Interaction
- “Alexa, answer the doorbell.” – Starts two-way audio (if your Echo supports it)
- “Alexa, talk to the front door.” – Same as above
Notification Alerts
When someone presses your Arlo doorbell, Alexa will announce: “Someone is at the front door.” On Echo Show devices, a preview image may appear automatically.
Note: If you don’t hear an announcement, check your Alexa notification settings (covered in the troubleshooting section).
Customizing Your Alexa Experience
Once connected, you can tweak settings to match your preferences.
Adjust Notification Settings
To reduce false alerts (like wind triggering motion):
- Open the Arlo app
- Go to your doorbell settings
- Adjust motion sensitivity or set activity zones
- In the Alexa app, go to Settings > Notifications > Doorbell Press
- Choose when to receive alerts (e.g., only during daytime)
Enable Drop-In (Optional)
For advanced users, you can enable “Drop In” so Alexa can automatically show the doorbell feed when someone rings. Go to Device Settings in the Alexa app, select your doorbell, and toggle on “Doorbell Press Announcements.”
Use Routines for Automation
Create Alexa routines to enhance functionality. For example:
- When the doorbell is pressed → Turn on porch light + Send phone notification
- At 10 PM → Silence doorbell announcements until 7 AM
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with perfect setup, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most common problems when trying to connect Arlo doorbell to Alexa.
Issue 1: Arlo Doorbell Not Showing Up in Alexa
Solution:
- Make sure the Arlo skill is enabled and your accounts are linked
- Restart both the Arlo doorbell and your Echo device
- Check that your doorbell appears in the Arlo app and is online
- Try disabling and re-enabling the Arlo skill in Alexa
Issue 2: No Video on Echo Show
Solution:
- Confirm your Echo Show is compatible and connected to Wi-Fi
- Ensure your Arlo doorbell supports live streaming (most do)
- Update the Alexa and Arlo apps to the latest versions
- Say “Alexa, show me [device name]” clearly and slowly
Issue 3: Delayed or Missed Alerts
Solution:
- Improve Wi-Fi signal near the doorbell
- Reduce motion sensitivity in the Arlo app
- Check Alexa notification permissions in device settings
- Ensure Do Not Disturb mode is off on your Echo
Issue 4: Two-Way Audio Not Working
Solution:
- Only Echo Show and Echo Spot support two-way talk with Arlo
- Make sure your doorbell has a working microphone and speaker
- Test audio in the Arlo app first
- Say “Alexa, talk to the front door” instead of just “answer”
Issue 5: Skill Login Fails
Solution:
- Reset your Arlo password and try again
- Disable two-factor authentication temporarily (then re-enable after setup)
- Clear the Alexa app cache or reinstall it
- Use the same email/password in both Arlo and Alexa
Tips for the Best Experience
To get the most out of your Arlo-Alexa integration, keep these tips in mind:
- Keep firmware updated: Arlo and Amazon regularly release updates that improve compatibility.
- Use a strong Wi-Fi password: Avoid special characters that might cause login issues.
- Name devices clearly: Simple names like “Front Door” work better than technical model numbers.
- Test regularly: Try a voice command once a week to ensure everything still works.
- Secure your accounts: Use unique passwords and enable 2FA on both Arlo and Amazon.
Conclusion
Connecting your Arlo doorbell to Alexa unlocks a new level of smart home convenience. With just a few steps—enabling the Arlo skill, linking accounts, and discovering your device—you can view live video, receive voice alerts, and even talk to visitors using only your voice.
Whether you’re using an Echo Show to see who’s knocking or relying on voice announcements from an Echo Dot, this integration makes staying connected to your home easier than ever. And if you run into hiccups, the troubleshooting tips above will help you get back on track quickly.
So go ahead—say “Alexa, show me the front door” and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a truly smart doorbell system.