Connecting your Arlo Video Doorbell to Alexa lets you see who’s at the door using voice commands and Echo devices. This guide walks you through setup, linking accounts, enabling skills, and troubleshooting common issues—so you can enjoy hands-free doorbell monitoring with ease.
Key Takeaways
- Prerequisites are essential: Ensure your Arlo Video Doorbell is installed, connected to Wi-Fi, and registered in the Arlo app before starting.
- Use the Arlo Skill in Alexa: You must enable the official Arlo Smart Home skill to link your Arlo account with Alexa.
- Voice commands unlock convenience: Once connected, use phrases like “Alexa, show me the front door” to view live video on Echo Show or Fire TV.
- Two-factor authentication may interfere: If enabled, temporarily disable it during setup to avoid login issues.
- Keep firmware updated: Outdated software on your doorbell or Echo devices can cause connection failures.
- Troubleshooting is straightforward: Most issues stem from Wi-Fi, account mismatches, or disabled skills—check these first.
- Notifications enhance security: Enable motion and ring alerts in both Arlo and Alexa apps for real-time updates.
How to Connect Arlo Video Doorbell to Alexa
If you’ve recently installed an Arlo Video Doorbell and own an Amazon Echo device—like an Echo Show, Echo Dot, or Fire TV—you’re probably eager to unlock the full power of your smart home setup. Connecting your Arlo Video Doorbell to Alexa lets you answer the door from anywhere in your house using just your voice. Imagine walking into your kitchen, hearing the doorbell ring, and saying, “Alexa, show me the front door”—and instantly seeing who’s there on your Echo Show screen. No more running to the front door or missing deliveries!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of connecting your Arlo Video Doorbell to Alexa. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a seasoned smart home enthusiast, our clear, jargon-free instructions will help you get everything working smoothly. We’ll cover prerequisites, account linking, skill activation, voice command setup, and even troubleshooting tips for common hiccups. By the end, you’ll be able to view live video, receive motion alerts, and control your doorbell—all through Alexa.
Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Visual guide about How to Connect Arlo Video Doorbell to Alexa
Image source: images.surferseo.art
Before diving into the setup process, make sure you have the following ready:
- A fully installed Arlo Video Doorbell: This includes mounting it correctly and wiring it (if using a wired model) or ensuring the battery is charged (for battery-powered versions).
- A stable Wi-Fi connection: Your doorbell needs to be connected to a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network (most Arlo doorbells don’t support 5 GHz).
- The Arlo app installed on your smartphone: Available for both iOS and Android, this app is essential for initial setup and ongoing management.
- An Amazon Alexa-enabled device: Such as an Echo Show, Echo Dot with screen, Fire TV Stick, or any device with a display that supports video streaming.
- An active Amazon account: Used to log into the Alexa app and manage your smart home devices.
- Your Arlo account credentials: Email and password used to sign into the Arlo app.
Having these items ready will save you time and frustration during setup. If your doorbell isn’t already connected to Wi-Fi via the Arlo app, pause here and complete that step first. You can’t link to Alexa until your doorbell is online and recognized in the Arlo ecosystem.
Step 1: Ensure Your Arlo Video Doorbell Is Set Up Correctly
The foundation of a successful Alexa integration is a properly configured Arlo Video Doorbell. If your doorbell isn’t working in the Arlo app, it won’t work with Alexa either.
Check Doorbell Status in the Arlo App
Open the Arlo app on your phone and go to the Devices tab. Your doorbell should appear with a green status indicator, showing it’s online and connected to Wi-Fi. If it shows as offline, red, or yellow, troubleshoot the connection first.
Common issues include weak Wi-Fi signal, incorrect password entry, or power problems (for wired models). Move your router closer if needed, or use a Wi-Fi extender to boost coverage near your front door.
Verify Firmware Is Up to Date
Outdated firmware can cause compatibility issues with Alexa. In the Arlo app, tap your doorbell, go to Settings > Device Info > Firmware Version. If an update is available, the app will prompt you to install it. Always keep your devices updated for the best performance and security.
Test Basic Functionality
Press the doorbell button (or simulate a motion event) and confirm you receive a notification on your phone. Also, check that you can view live video within the Arlo app. If these basics don’t work, Alexa integration won’t either—so resolve any issues now.
Step 2: Enable the Arlo Skill in the Alexa App
To connect Arlo to Alexa, you need to enable the official Arlo Smart Home skill. This acts as a bridge between your Arlo account and Amazon’s voice assistant.
Open the Alexa App
Launch the Alexa app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re signed in with the same Amazon account linked to your Echo devices.
Navigate to Skills & Games
Tap the More menu (three horizontal lines) in the bottom-right corner, then select “Skills & Games.” Use the search bar at the top and type “Arlo.”
Select the Official Arlo Skill
Look for the skill titled “Arlo Smart Home” by Arlo Technologies, Inc. Avoid third-party or unofficial skills—they may not work reliably or could pose security risks.
Enable the Skill
Tap “Enable to Use.” You’ll be redirected to a login page where you must sign in with your Arlo account credentials (the same email and password used in the Arlo app).
Pro Tip: If you have two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled on your Arlo account, you may encounter login issues. Temporarily disable 2FA during this step, complete the linking process, and re-enable it afterward for security.
After successful login, Alexa will confirm the skill is enabled and your Arlo devices are discovered. You should see your Video Doorbell listed under “Devices” in the Alexa app.
Step 3: Discover Devices in Alexa
Even after enabling the skill, Alexa may not automatically detect your doorbell. You’ll need to manually trigger device discovery.
Go to Devices in the Alexa App
Tap the Devices tab at the bottom of the screen, then tap the “+” icon and select “Add Device.”
Choose “Camera” and Then “Arlo”
Follow the prompts to select your device type. Since your doorbell is a camera, choose “Camera” > “Arlo.” Alexa will search for compatible devices linked to your account.
Confirm Discovery
Within a few seconds, your Arlo Video Doorbell should appear. Tap it to add it to your Alexa device list. You can rename it for clarity—for example, “Front Door” or “Main Entrance”—to make voice commands more intuitive.
Step 4: Test Voice Commands and Live View
Now comes the fun part—using your voice to interact with your doorbell!
Try Basic Voice Commands
Say one of the following phrases to your Echo device:
- “Alexa, show me the front door.”
- “Alexa, who’s at the door?”
- “Alexa, open Arlo.”
- “Alexa, stream [doorbell name].”
If you have an Echo Show, Fire TV, or another screen-equipped device, the live video feed from your doorbell should appear instantly.
Enable Motion and Ring Alerts
To receive notifications when someone approaches or rings the doorbell, ensure alerts are enabled in both apps:
- In the Arlo app: Go to your doorbell settings > Alerts > toggle on “Motion Alerts” and “Ring Alerts.”
- In the Alexa app: Go to Settings > Notifications > Doorbell Press > select your Arlo doorbell and enable notifications.
Now, when motion is detected or the button is pressed, your Echo device will announce, “Someone is at the front door,” and display the video if you have a screen.
Use Two-Way Audio (If Supported)
Many Arlo Video Doorbells support two-way communication. Once the live view is active, say, “Alexa, talk to the front door,” and you can speak directly to the visitor. This is perfect for greeting delivery drivers or telling solicitors you’re not interested—without opening the door.
Step 5: Customize Your Experience
Make the most of your Arlo-Alexa integration with these customization tips:
Create Routines
Use Alexa Routines to automate responses. For example:
- When the doorbell rings, turn on the porch light and send a notification to your phone.
- At night, have Alexa say, “It’s late—please speak quietly,” when motion is detected.
To set this up, go to Routines in the Alexa app, create a new routine, and choose “Doorbell Press” as the trigger.
Adjust Privacy Settings
If you have multiple Echo devices, decide which ones should show the doorbell feed. In the Alexa app, go to your doorbell device settings and disable video on devices you don’t want to display it (like a bedroom Echo Dot).
Optimize Video Quality
Poor video quality? Check your Wi-Fi signal strength at the doorbell location. Arlo recommends at least -65 dBm for smooth streaming. Use the Arlo app’s signal strength indicator to find the best spot for your router or consider a mesh Wi-Fi system.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful setup, you might run into problems. Here’s how to fix the most common ones:
Alexa Says “Device Not Responding”
- Check if your doorbell is online in the Arlo app.
- Restart your Echo device by unplugging it for 10 seconds.
- Re-enable the Arlo skill and rediscover devices.
No Video on Echo Show
- Ensure your Echo Show is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your doorbell.
- Verify that video streaming is enabled in the Alexa app under device settings.
- Update your Echo device’s software via Settings > Device Options > Check for Updates.
Skill Fails to Link Accounts
- Double-check your Arlo login credentials.
- Temporarily disable two-factor authentication.
- Clear the cache in the Alexa app or try linking from a web browser at alexa.amazon.com.
Delayed or Missed Notifications
- Ensure “Do Not Disturb” mode is off on your Echo devices.
- Check notification permissions in your phone’s settings for both Arlo and Alexa apps.
- Reduce background apps that may slow down your phone’s response time.
Doorbell Not Found During Discovery
- Make sure your doorbell is powered and connected to Wi-Fi.
- Log out and back into the Arlo skill in the Alexa app.
- Contact Arlo support if the device still doesn’t appear after 24 hours.
Security and Privacy Considerations
While connecting your doorbell to Alexa adds convenience, it’s important to protect your privacy:
- Use strong passwords: For both your Arlo and Amazon accounts.
- Enable two-factor authentication: After setup, re-enable 2FA on your Arlo account.
- Limit who can access your Echo devices: Use voice profiles or PINs for sensitive actions.
- Review activity logs: Both Arlo and Alexa keep logs of device access—check them periodically.
- Disable video on shared devices: If others use your Echo, consider turning off doorbell video on devices in common areas.
Remember: Your doorbell captures footage of your home’s entrance. Treat it like any other security device—secure your accounts and be mindful of who has access.
Conclusion
Connecting your Arlo Video Doorbell to Alexa transforms your front door into a smart, interactive entry point. With just a few steps—enabling the Arlo skill, linking accounts, discovering devices, and testing voice commands—you can answer the door from anywhere in your home using your voice and a screen. Whether you’re cooking dinner, watching TV, or relaxing in the backyard, you’ll never miss a visitor again.
This integration not only boosts convenience but also enhances home security. Real-time alerts, live video feeds, and two-way communication give you peace of mind whether you’re at home or away. And with customizable routines and privacy controls, you can tailor the experience to fit your lifestyle.
If you run into issues, don’t worry—most problems are easily resolved with the troubleshooting tips above. Keep your firmware updated, maintain a strong Wi-Fi signal, and double-check your settings.
Now that you know how to connect Arlo Video Doorbell to Alexa, it’s time to enjoy the benefits of a smarter, safer home. Say hello to hands-free doorbell monitoring—and goodbye to missed packages and unexpected guests!