Arlo Camera subscription
Understanding Arlo Camera Subscription: What You Need to Know
Arlo offers some of the most advanced smart home security cameras on the market. But to unlock the full potential of your devices, you may need an Arlo camera subscription. While basic features are available without a plan, Arlo’s paid subscriptions provide enhanced benefits like cloud video storage, advanced motion detection, and emergency response. If you’re unsure about whether a subscription is right for you, or you’re running into issues activating one, this guide will help—and includes helpful Arlo troubleshooting tips along the way.
What Is an Arlo Camera Subscription?
An Arlo camera subscription is a paid plan that enhances the functionality of your Arlo security cameras. Without a subscription, you get live streaming, motion notifications, and local storage (if supported). However, a subscription unlocks:
Cloud video storage
AI-powered motion detection (people, animals, vehicles)
Activity zones
Priority customer support
Emergency response services (in some plans)
Arlo Subscription Plans Overview
Arlo offers several subscription tiers:
Arlo Secure (Single Camera) – Ideal for users with one camera. Includes 30-day cloud storage and smart alerts.
Arlo Secure (Unlimited Cameras) – Covers all cameras on one account, suitable for households with multiple devices.
Arlo Secure Plus – Adds emergency response and higher resolution video backup (for 4K-compatible models).
All plans come with a 30-day free trial when you set up a new camera.
How to Activate an Arlo Camera Subscription
Activating a subscription is simple:
Open the Arlo Secure app.
Go to Settings > Subscription.
Select your desired plan.
Enter payment details and confirm.
Your subscription should activate immediately. However, if you don’t see premium features enabled, basic Arlo troubleshooting may help.
Arlo Troubleshooting: Subscription Not Working?
If you've paid for a plan but your features aren’t available, try the following Arlo troubleshooting steps:
Log out and back into the app – Refresh your account session.
Check for app updates – An outdated app may not show current subscription status.
Confirm the plan was applied to the right camera – You may need to manually assign the plan to specific cameras.
Restart your camera or base station – A soft reset often helps with syncing issues.
Verify payment and billing – Go to Arlo’s website to confirm that your payment was processed.
If none of these work, contact Arlo customer support for assistance.
Is an Arlo Subscription Worth It?
For users who want more than just live streaming, an Arlo camera subscription is definitely worth it. Features like person detection, custom activity zones, and emergency response add significant value to home security. If you're using Arlo cameras for business or frequent travel, the subscription ensures you don't miss critical events.
Final Thoughts
While you can use Arlo cameras without a subscription, the additional features provided through Arlo Secure plans significantly enhance your experience. Whether you're interested in smarter alerts, cloud storage, or faster response, a subscription can make your Arlo system more effective. And if you ever face technical issues, basic Arlo troubleshooting ensures you stay protected without frustration.
