How to Use 2-Way Audio on Arlo Cameras: Full Guide for US Users

Two-way audio is one of the most useful features built into Arlo security cameras. Whether you want to speak to a visitor at your front door, warn an intruder, or communicate with family remotely, the two-way talk feature turns your camera into a powerful communication tool. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to use 2-way audio on Arlo cameras, troubleshoot common issues, and share real-world use cases that make this feature a must-have.

If you’re already using Arlo cameras or planning to buy one, this guide helps you make the most of their voice communication features.

Visit our full guide on Arlo Security Cameras for model comparisons, setup tips, and smart home integrations.

What Is Two-Way Audio on Arlo Cameras?

Two-way audio allows you to both listen to and speak through your Arlo camera. It essentially turns your Arlo into an intercom system, letting you:

Hear sounds around the camera in real time
Talk to people near the camera using your smartphone or PC
Remotely manage access, give directions, or alert intruders

This feature is available on most Arlo models, including Arlo Pro 2, Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro 5S, Arlo Ultra, Arlo Essential, and Video Doorbells.

Step-by-Step: How to Use 2-Way Audio on Arlo Cameras

You can use 2-way audio on Arlo cameras via the Arlo Secure App or your PC browser. Here’s how to activate and use the feature.

Using the Arlo App (Android/iOS)

Open the Arlo Secure App
Download or open the app on your smartphone.
Tap on the Camera Feed
Select the camera you want to use two-way audio with. Tap “Live” to initiate a live feed.
Press and Hold the Microphone Icon
On the live stream interface, you’ll see a mic icon. Press and hold it to speak. Release it to stop.
Listen and Talk
You’ll hear the audio from the camera’s location, and your voice will be transmitted through the built-in speaker.
Adjust Volume and Audio Settings
You can tweak mic sensitivity and speaker volume under Settings > Audio Settings.

Using a PC or Mac (Web Portal)

Visit https://my.arlo.com
Use Google Chrome or Firefox for best compatibility.
Log Into Your Arlo Account
Enter your credentials and verify if required.
Go to Devices and Click Live
Select the camera you want to control and click “Live.”
Click the Microphone Icon on the Video Player
Click and hold to speak. You must grant browser microphone permissions when prompted.
Adjust Volume from Settings
Ensure that your computer’s mic and speaker are working properly. You can tweak sound under camera settings.

Real-World Use Cases for Two-Way Audio

Two-way audio isn’t just a gimmick — it has practical uses in both home and business environments. Here are a few common ways U.S. users apply it:

Home Security

Answer the door remotely: Speak to delivery drivers or guests even when you’re not home.
Deter intruders: Yell “Hey! I see you!” through your camera if someone is snooping.
Communicate with family: Tell your kids to close the garage or check on a relative.

Small Business

Manage deliveries: Instruct delivery drivers where to leave packages.
Customer interaction: Let visitors or customers know you’ll be there shortly.
Monitor employees: Remind staff of store policies or confirm activity.

Pet Monitoring

Talk to your pets: Comfort your dog while you’re at work.
Prevent mischief: A quick “No!” from the speaker can stop a pet from chewing furniture.

Checklist Before You Use 2-Way Audio

Use this checklist to ensure your Arlo two-way audio works smoothly:

Arlo camera is powered on and connected to Wi-Fi
Camera model supports two-way audio (see below)
Microphone and speaker access enabled in mobile/browser settings
Using Arlo Secure App or supported browser (Chrome or Firefox)
Firmware is up to date
Environment around the camera is quiet enough for mic to pick up sound

Supported Models:

Arlo Pro 2, 3, 4, 5S
Arlo Ultra and Ultra 2
Arlo Essential Indoor/Outdoor
Arlo Video Doorbells (Wired and Wireless)

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Audio Is Not Working

Problem: You can’t hear sound or the person on the other end can’t hear you.

Fix:

Check mic and speaker permissions in the app or browser
Make sure mute isn’t enabled
Reboot the Arlo camera
Update the firmware
Try reinstalling the app or clearing browser cache

Microphone Not Detected on Browser

Problem: The web interface says your microphone is not available.

Fix:

Go to browser settings and manually allow mic access for my.arlo.com
Check Windows or macOS privacy settings to allow apps to use the mic
Restart your PC

Audio Delay or Echo

Problem: The voice has a delay or echoes.

Fix:

Ensure strong Wi-Fi connection for both your camera and phone/computer
Close background apps
Use earbuds or headphones to eliminate feedback

Watch Out For

Here are some potential pitfalls when using two-way audio with Arlo:

Limited range: Audio clarity may degrade if the person is too far from the camera mic.
Wi-Fi strength: Poor connectivity can cause dropped audio or lag.
Battery drain: Using live audio frequently can reduce battery life, especially on battery-only models.
Privacy issues: Always notify guests that audio is being recorded in compliance with local laws.

Pro Tips for Better 2-Way Audio Experience

Use Wi-Fi 6 Routers: Get faster, more stable audio streaming.
Install the Camera at Head Level: Helps with sound direction and better microphone pickup.
Use Wired Power for Frequent Talk Use: Keeps your camera from running low on battery.
Enable Noise Reduction: In the app, some Arlo models allow for enhanced audio filtering.
Test with a Friend First: Check clarity before using the feature for important interactions.

Internal Link

Want to compare other Arlo camera models with 2-way audio features? Visit our complete Arlo Security Cameras guide to explore setup tutorials, buying advice, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Does every Arlo camera have 2-way audio?
No. Most newer models do, including Arlo Pro series, Ultra, Essential, and video doorbells. Older models like Arlo Wire-Free or Arlo Q may not support this feature.

Q2. Can I use two-way audio from my computer?
Yes. Just go to https://my.arlo.com on a supported browser, allow mic access, and use the microphone icon during a live stream.

Q3. Why can’t people hear me when I speak through my Arlo camera?
Check if mic permissions are granted in your app or browser. Make sure you’re pressing the mic icon and that your internet connection is stable.

Q4. Is two-way audio free to use with Arlo?
Yes. The 2-way audio feature is included at no additional cost and does not require an Arlo Secure subscription.

Q5. How far can the mic and speaker reach?
For most Arlo models, the mic can pick up sounds from 15–25 feet, and the speaker can project voice over a similar distance, depending on the environment.

Q6. Can I use 2-way audio when watching recordings?
No. Two-way audio is only available during live view. You cannot speak through the camera when reviewing saved clips.

Q7. Does two-way audio work at night?
Yes. Two-way audio works anytime the camera is in live view, including during night vision mode.

Final Thoughts

Using two-way audio on Arlo cameras adds an incredible layer of interactivity and control to your home or business security system. From answering the door to warning off trespassers, this feature helps you stay connected in real time.

With just a few taps in the app or clicks on your computer, you can speak and listen through your Arlo cameras effortlessly. Whether you’re a homeowner, a parent, or a business owner, mastering this feature is a smart move toward building a more secure and responsive environment.

For more expert guides and Arlo camera comparisons, be sure to check our main Arlo Security Cameras page.

Troubleshooting Guides

How to Use 2-Way Audio on Arlo Cameras: Full Guide for US Users