Arlo security cameras stand apart for their sharp video quality and ease of use. But did you know that many Arlo cameras can also listen and intelligently identify sounds? This feature significantly enhances your security by alerting you to potential incidents that might otherwise escape video detection alone. Let’s explore what Arlo sound detection is, how it works, its customizable settings, and how to maximize its effectiveness.
arlo sound detection
What is Arlo Sound Detection?
Arlo sound detection uses onboard microphones in compatible cameras to analyze audio. Its intelligent algorithms differentiate between specific sound types:
- Alarms: Detects the distinct beeping patterns of smoke or carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. This is vital for catching hazards even if they’re out of the camera’s view.
- People: Identifies sounds like babies crying or calls for help, allowing you to respond quickly in an emergency.
- Animals: Distinguishes between pets barking or other animal noises, helping you stay aware of activity around your property.
- Other/General Sounds: Catches a broad category of sounds that don’t neatly fit into the previous categories. This might include breaking glass, specific alert tones, or unexpected noises warranting attention.
How Does It Work?
- Audio Capture: The Arlo camera’s microphone constantly listens to its surroundings.
- Sound Analysis: Arlo’s proprietary algorithms analyze the audio, identifying its frequency patterns and comparing them to its database of known sounds.
- Alert Trigger: If the algorithm identifies a matching sound with high confidence, it sends an immediate alert to your Arlo app.
The Benefits of Sound Detection
- Off-Camera Awareness: Get alerted to potential issues happening beyond your camera’s field of view, enabling a faster response.
- Added Context: Sound alerts paired with video footage from your camera provide greater clarity than video alone, particularly for events like break-ins where the audio could add crucial information.
- Child and Pet Monitoring: Stay alert to potential dangers or a child in distress, expanding Arlo’s utility beyond traditional security.
- Smoke/CO Alarm Augmentation: Even if your alarm is out of sight or earshot, Arlo can act as an additional backup alert system, potentially saving lives.
Adjusting Sound Detection Settings
Arlo’s sound detection offers granular control within the Arlo app:
- Enable/Disable Toggle: Turn the feature on and off entirely for your camera.
- Sound Sensitivity: Adjust the microphone’s sensitivity to reduce false alerts or prioritize detection of quieter sounds.
- Select Detectable Sounds: Choose which specific sound categories (alarms, crying, animals, other) should trigger alerts.
- Smart Notifications: If you have an Arlo Smart Plan, you can even customize notification messages based on what sound was detected.
Important Considerations
- Camera Compatibility: Not all Arlo cameras support sound detection. Check Arlo’s website for a full list of compatible models.
- Arlo Smart Plan: While basic sound detection works without a plan, advanced features like custom notifications require an Arlo Smart subscription.
- Microphone Placement Matters: The camera’s microphone needs clear audio access to operate effectively. Avoid obstructions and noisy environments for optimal results.
Situations Where Sound Detection Shines
- Home Alone: Be immediately alerted if smoke/CO alarms go off while you’re away.
- Unexpected Entry: Quickly get notified if there’s the sound of forced entry, potentially aiding a timely response.
- Elderly or Child Supervision: Receive notifications if a child cries or there are unexpected sounds coming from the room of an elderly relative.
- Pets in Distress: Detect a barking dog that might be signaling danger or injury.
Tips for Effective Sound Detection
- Test and Tweak: Experiment with sensitivity settings and sound categories to find a balance between useful alerts and false positives.
- Integrate with Routines: Use Arlo’s routines feature to automate actions based on sound detection. For example, trigger lights or sirens to activate when certain sounds are detected.
- Combined Security: Don’t rely on sound detection alone. Pair it with video monitoring, motion detection, and other security measures for a comprehensive defense.
Is Arlo Sound Detection Right for You?
This feature is a must-have if:
- You want more awareness beyond what the camera lens can see.
- Smoke/CO alarms within earshot of your camera are a major priority.
- You use Arlo for security and child or pet monitoring.
Harness the Power of Audio Detection
Integrating sound detection elevates your Arlo security system beyond visual surveillance alone. By understanding the feature, utilizing its customization options, and strategically deploying compatible cameras, you create a smarter, more perceptive security network for your home or business.
