This guide walks you through how to forward video from Ring Doorbell to friends, family, or authorities. You’ll learn multiple methods using the Ring app, including sharing via email, text, or direct link—perfect for security or evidence purposes.
Key Takeaways
- Forwarding Ring videos is easy: Use the Ring app to share clips directly from your event history.
- Share with contacts or publicly: Send videos privately to trusted people or generate a shareable link.
- Email and text options available: Ring lets you send video links via email or SMS without downloading files.
- Law enforcement requests require extra steps: Use Ring’s Law Enforcement Portal for official requests.
- Video quality and length matter: Ensure clips are clear and under 30 seconds for best sharing results.
- Privacy settings impact sharing: Adjust your device and account settings to allow video sharing.
- Troubleshooting tips included: Fix common issues like failed uploads or missing share buttons.
How to Forward Video from Ring Doorbell: A Complete Guide
If you’ve ever had a suspicious visitor, a package theft, or just want to share a funny moment caught on your Ring Doorbell, knowing how to forward video from Ring Doorbell is essential. Whether you’re sending footage to a neighbor, reporting an incident to the police, or simply showing a friend a funny clip, Ring makes it surprisingly simple—if you know where to look.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every method available to share your Ring Doorbell videos. You’ll learn how to forward clips directly from the Ring app, send them via email or text, generate shareable links, and even submit footage to law enforcement when needed. We’ll also cover troubleshooting tips, privacy considerations, and best practices to ensure your videos are shared safely and effectively.
By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to confidently forward any Ring Doorbell video in just a few taps—no technical expertise required.
Why You Might Want to Forward Ring Doorbell Videos
Before diving into the steps, it’s helpful to understand why people forward Ring videos. Here are some common scenarios:
- Security incidents: Share footage of a break-in, vandalism, or suspicious activity with neighbors or police.
- Package theft: Send video evidence to delivery companies or file a police report.
- Neighborhood alerts: Notify your community about a lost pet or unsafe behavior.
- Personal records: Keep a copy of important events like deliveries or visitors.
- Legal documentation: Provide video evidence in disputes or insurance claims.
No matter your reason, Ring’s sharing features are designed to help you act quickly and securely.
Prerequisites: What You Need Before Forwarding
Before you can forward a video, make sure you have the following:
1. Ring App Installed and Updated
Download the official Ring app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Ensure it’s updated to the latest version to access all sharing features.
Visual guide about How to Forward Video from Ring Doorbell
Image source: storables.com
2. Active Ring Protect Plan (Optional but Recommended)
While basic video sharing works without a subscription, a Ring Protect Plan allows you to save, review, and share videos longer than 60 seconds. Without it, you can only share live views or short clips from the last 24–72 hours, depending on your device.
3. Strong Internet Connection
A stable Wi-Fi connection ensures smooth video uploads and sharing. Weak signals may cause delays or failed transfers.
4. Recipient’s Contact Information
If you’re sending via email or text, have the recipient’s email address or phone number ready.
5. Proper Privacy Settings
Check that your Ring device isn’t set to “Do Not Disturb” or restricted by motion zones that might block recording.
Once you’ve confirmed these, you’re ready to start forwarding videos.
Method 1: Forward Video via the Ring App (Step-by-Step)
This is the most common and user-friendly way to share Ring Doorbell footage. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Log in with your Ring account credentials if prompted.
Step 2: Go to “Events” or “History”
Tap the “Events” tab at the bottom of the screen. This shows a timeline of all motion and doorbell press events recorded by your device.
Step 3: Select the Video You Want to Share
Scroll through the list to find the specific event you want to forward. Tap on the video thumbnail to open it.
Step 4: Tap the Share Icon
Once the video plays, look for the share icon (usually a square with an upward arrow or three connected dots). It’s typically located at the bottom or top-right corner of the screen.
Step 5: Choose Your Sharing Method
You’ll see several options:
- Send via Email: Enter one or more email addresses. Ring will send a secure link to the video.
- Send via Text (SMS): Enter a phone number. The recipient gets a link via text message.
- Copy Link: Generates a shareable URL you can paste into messages, social media, or documents.
- Share to Social Media: Directly post to platforms like Facebook or Twitter (if enabled).
Step 6: Add a Message (Optional)
You can include a brief note with your video, such as “Check out this delivery” or “Suspicious person at front door.”
Step 7: Send the Video
Tap “Send” or “Share”. The recipient will receive a link that opens the video in a browser or the Ring app (if they have it).
Pro Tip: The shared link expires after 30 days for security reasons. If you need long-term access, download the video first (see Method 3).
Method 2: Share Video with Law Enforcement
If you’re reporting a crime or need to submit footage to police, Ring offers a dedicated channel for law enforcement requests.
Step 1: Visit the Ring Law Enforcement Portal
Go to ring.com/law-enforcement on your computer or mobile browser. This is Ring’s official portal for legal requests.
Step 2: Submit a Request
Law enforcement officers can submit a formal request for video footage. As a user, you can also use this portal to voluntarily share evidence.
Step 3: Provide Required Information
You’ll need to enter:
- Your name and contact information
- Device location (address)
- Date and time of the incident
- Description of the event
- Officer’s name and agency (if applicable)
Step 4: Upload or Link the Video
You can either upload a downloaded video file or provide a shareable link from the Ring app.
Step 5: Submit and Follow Up
Ring reviews requests within 48 hours. You’ll receive confirmation once the video is shared with the requesting agency.
Important: Only share footage with authorized personnel. Misuse of this portal can lead to account restrictions.
Method 3: Download and Forward Video Manually
Sometimes you may want to save the video to your device first, then forward it through other apps like WhatsApp, Google Drive, or email attachments.
Step 1: Open the Video in the Ring App
Navigate to the event and play the video as described in Method 1.
Step 2: Tap the Download Icon
Look for a download button (usually a downward arrow). Tap it to save the video to your phone’s gallery or camera roll.
Note: Downloading requires a Ring Protect Plan. Without it, this option may be grayed out.
Step 3: Access Your Device’s Gallery
Open your phone’s Photos or Files app and locate the downloaded video. It’s usually saved in a folder named “Ring” or “Downloads.”
Step 4: Share Using Your Preferred App
Tap the share icon in your gallery app and choose how to send it:
- Email (as an attachment)
- Text message
- Cloud storage (Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox)
- Messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, Messenger)
Step 5: Send with a Message
Add context to your message, such as “Here’s the video of the delivery” or “This person was acting suspiciously.”
Tip: Video files can be large. If the recipient has trouble opening them, consider compressing the file or using a cloud link instead.
Method 4: Generate a Shareable Link for Public Use
If you want to share a video with a group—like a neighborhood watch group or social media—generating a public link is efficient.
Step 1: Open the Video in the Ring App
Go to the event and play the clip.
Step 2: Tap the Share Icon
Select “Copy Link” from the sharing options.
Step 3: Paste the Link Where Needed
Paste the link into:
- Group chats (WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger)
- Email newsletters
- Community forums or Nextdoor
- Social media posts
Step 4: Inform Recipients About Expiration
Remind people that the link expires in 30 days. Encourage them to view it promptly.
Caution: Public links can be accessed by anyone who has them. Avoid sharing sensitive footage publicly unless necessary.
Best Practices for Forwarding Ring Videos
To ensure your videos are shared safely and effectively, follow these best practices:
1. Respect Privacy
Only share footage involving people who are aware they’re being recorded (where legally required). Avoid sharing videos that show private areas like neighbors’ homes or windows.
2. Add Context
Always include a brief description with your video. This helps recipients understand the situation without guessing.
3. Use Secure Methods
Prefer email or direct app sharing over public social media for sensitive content.
4. Check Video Quality
Ensure the clip is clear and shows the important details. Blurry or dark footage may not be useful.
5. Limit Recipients
Only send videos to people who need to see them. Over-sharing can lead to misinformation or privacy breaches.
6. Keep Records
Save copies of shared videos and messages for your records, especially if used for legal purposes.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best setup, you might run into problems. Here’s how to fix the most common ones:
Issue: Share Button Is Missing or Grayed Out
Solution: This usually means you don’t have a Ring Protect Plan. Upgrade your subscription to unlock full sharing and download features. Alternatively, the video may be too old (beyond the free retention period).
Issue: Video Fails to Send
Solution: Check your internet connection. Restart the Ring app and try again. If using email, ensure the address is correct and not blocked by spam filters.
Issue: Recipient Can’t Open the Link
Solution: The link may have expired (after 30 days). Reshare a new link or send a downloaded copy. Also, ensure the recipient has internet access and a compatible browser.
Issue: Video Is Too Long to Share
Solution: Ring limits shared clips to 30 seconds in the free version. Trim the video using your phone’s editor before sharing, or upgrade to Ring Protect for longer clips.
Issue: Motion Zones Blocked the Event
Solution: Go to Device Settings > Motion Settings and adjust your motion zones to ensure important areas are covered.
Issue: App Crashes When Sharing
Solution: Update the Ring app and your phone’s operating system. Clear the app cache or reinstall if needed.
Privacy and Legal Considerations
Sharing video footage comes with responsibilities. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Know Your Local Laws
Laws about recording and sharing video vary by location. In many places, you can record public areas but must avoid invading privacy (e.g., pointing the camera into someone’s bedroom).
Obtain Consent When Needed
If you’re sharing footage of identifiable individuals in private settings, get their permission first.
Don’t Misrepresent Footage
Never edit videos to mislead or falsely accuse someone. This can lead to legal consequences.
Use Ring’s Privacy Features
Enable features like End-to-End Encryption (if available) and Privacy Zones to block out sensitive areas.
Conclusion
Knowing how to forward video from Ring Doorbell empowers you to act quickly in emergencies, support your community, and protect your home. Whether you’re sending a clip to a friend, reporting a crime, or storing evidence, Ring’s built-in sharing tools make the process straightforward and secure.
From using the Ring app’s share button to generating public links or submitting footage to law enforcement, you now have multiple reliable methods at your fingertips. Just remember to respect privacy, use secure channels, and keep your app updated for the best experience.
With this guide, you’re equipped to handle any situation that comes your way—turning your Ring Doorbell from a simple security device into a powerful tool for communication and safety.