How to Connect Your Arlo Camera to Google Assistant

Arlo doesn’t work with just Alexa. It works with Google Assistant too.

Here’s how to get set up.

1. Get an Arlo camera

Last we heard, not all of Arlo’s cameras work with Google Assistant. But you can pick any of the following and still connect with Google:

• Arlo
• Arlo Q
• Arlo Q Plus
• Arlo Pro
• Arlo Pro 2
• Arlo Pro 3
• Arlo Baby
• Arlo Ultra
• Arlo Video Doorbell

To learn about other Arlo cameras, visit our full Arlo camera review.

2. Get a Google Home or Nest Hub

Your Arlo cameras should work with any Google Home or Nest Hub. But to view the feed, you need a device with a screen.

Try either the Nest Hub or Nest Hub Max for the full effect.

3. Set up your Arlo camera

The Arlo app will tell you everything you need to know about setting up your new Arlo camera. Just follow its instructions.

Once you’ve set everything up, give the camera a little test to make sure it’s working. Troubleshoot the Wi-Fi connection too.

4. Set up your Nest Hub

Go into the Google Home app. Select the plus sign, then choose “Set up device.”

The app will show an option titled “Have something already set up?” Choose this option, then select Arlo from the list of smart devices. You’ll then log into your Arlo account.

5. Add Arlo camera

Go into the Google Home app. Select the plus sign, then choose “Set up device.”

The app will show an option titled “Have something already set up?” Choose this option, then select Arlo from the list of smart devices. You’ll then log into your Arlo account.

6. Check your Arlo feed using Google Assistant

Say, “Okay Google, show outdoor Arlo Ultra on Nest Hub Max.” (Make sure to use the correct names of your cameras and Google Home devices.)

And that’s it! Everything is set up so that you can view your camera feed.

Recap

Setting up an Arlo camera with Google Assistant isn’t difficult, though it can be a little anti-intuitive at times. We’ve hopefully provided everything you need to work through the process.

Google Assistant/Amazon FAQ

What will Arlo cameras work with?

Arlo cameras don’t work with every available protocol or smart home platform. (For instance, they don’t currently work with Thread.)

We’ve created a few tables that show compatibility with Arlo indoor and outdoor cameras.

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If you have an Arlo or Arlo Pro, your options are more limited. Both are compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Stringify. The Arlo Pro works with HomeKit, but the basic Arlo doesn’t.

Can I arm or disarm my Arlo cameras with Google Assistant?

Our research suggests that you can’t turn an Arlo camera on and off through regular Google Assistant commands. However, it sounds like you can set up an arming or disarming sequence using IFTTT.

Which Arlo security camera is the best?

Not every Arlo camera will be right for every person.

If you live with someone you don’t trust or have kids or valuables you want to keep an eye on, we’d start with an indoor security camera.

But if your main goal is to keep intruders out, we’d definitely prioritize an outdoor security camera or video doorbell.

We hope that helps. If you find you don’t like the sound of Arlo cameras in general, you can always try the Nest Cam IQ. They’re a similar value to Arlo (although they tend to run at a higher price point). You can get either an indoor or outdoor version.

Or, if you prefer something cheaper, here are suggestions for not-so-pricey security cameras.

Sources:

1. Donald Holladay, Google Nest Help, “ELI5: Using Google Assistant on My Phone to View Nest Outdoor Camera Feed” December 15, 2019. Accessed August 5, 2020.