Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation) FAQ

This FAQ applies to the new Arlo Essential Indoor Camera 2K and HD (2nd Generation).

What is the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation) video resolution?
Arlo Essential Indoor Cameras (2nd Generation) have video resolution of 1080p and 2K, with an aspect ratio of 16:9.

What is the field of view on the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation)?
The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation) field of view is 130 degrees.

Does the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation) have an integrated siren?
Yes. The siren can be set to trigger automatically when motion or sound is detected, or enabled manually with the Arlo Secure App.

How do I mount the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation)?
You can use the included mounting plate to mount the camera on a wall, or you can place the camera on a flat surface.
For more information, visit: How do I mount my Arlo Essential Indoor Camera to a wall? (2nd Generation)

Do I need an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station to use the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation)?
No. You can connect the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera directly to your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network without the need for an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station. If you want to connect your camera to a SmartHub or Base Station, you can connect it to a VMB5000, VMB4540, VMB4500, or VMB4000 SmartHub or Base Station.

What are the benefits of connecting my Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation) to a SmartHub or Base Station?
The Arlo SmartHub or Base Station increases security by adding a secure, personal network to your router. The Arlo SmartHub or Base Station also helps regulate Wi-Fi traffic, improves battery life, and is compatible with local storage.
For more information, visit: What are the benefits of using an Arlo SmartHub or Base Station?

What is the minimum upload bandwidth speed required?
The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation) requires an upload speed of at least 2 Mbps per camera.
For more information, visit: What are the minimum requirements for installing and using my Arlo system?

Can I use continuous video recording (CVR) with the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation)?
Yes, Arlo Essential Indoor Cameras (2nd Generation) are compatible with CVR.
For more information, visit: What is Continuous Video Recording (CVR) and how do I use it?

Is an Arlo Secure trial included with the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation)?
Yes. A 30-day Arlo Secure trial is included with the purchase of an Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation).

What is the Privacy Shield?
The automated Privacy Shield closes whenever you disarm your camera, ensuring that your moments are private when needed. When the Privacy Shield is closed, your camera disables motion and audio detection, and the camera’s microphone is turned off.
For more information, visit: How do I use the Privacy Shield on my Arlo Essential Indoor Camera?

Can I close the Privacy Shield manually?
You can close the Privacy Shield in the Arlo Secure App by disarming your camera. Do not attempt to manually close the Privacy Shield with your finger.

If you are subscribed to CVR, the Privacy Shield must remain open to allow continuous recording.

What smart home and voice assistant systems can I use with the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation)?
The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (2nd Generation) is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and If This Then That (IFTTT).
For more information, visit: What smart home and voice assistant systems can I use with my Arlo devices?

Are Arlo Essential Indoor Cameras (2nd Generation) compatible with Apple Home?
Not yet. The Arlo team is working to support Apple Home compatibility for Essential Indoor (2nd Generation) Cameras.