An Arlo camera subscription can add cloud recording, advanced detection, activity zones, enhanced notifications, and other features to compatible Arlo security cameras. However, not every Arlo camera feature requires a paid subscription. Depending on your camera model, location, and setup, you may still be able to use features such as live streaming and notifications without a subscription.
Arlo’s subscription plans and names have changed over time, so it is important to check the current plan available for your region before purchasing. In September 2026, Arlo introduced updated plan names and additional Early Warning System features in supported markets.
This guide explains how Arlo subscriptions work, what they can provide, what happens when a trial ends, and how to choose a plan based on your camera setup.
What Is an Arlo Camera Subscription?
An Arlo camera subscription is a paid service that provides additional cloud-based security features for compatible Arlo devices.
Depending on the plan and region, subscription features can include:
- Cloud video history
- Advanced AI-based object detection
- Person and vehicle recognition
- Animal and package detection
- Activity zones
- Interactive notifications
- Event captions
- Video search
- Arlo Summary
- Professional monitoring
- Emergency response
- Continuous video recording on eligible plans
The exact features depend on the subscription, camera model, location, and availability in your country.
Do Arlo Cameras Require a Subscription?
No, not necessarily.
Arlo states that compatible devices can continue to provide certain features without an Arlo plan. These can include live streaming, push notifications, two-way audio, and, for supported devices, local storage recording.
However, some cloud-based and advanced features require a subscription. For example, Arlo says that Video History and Activity Zones are unavailable without an applicable plan or trial.
This means you can use an Arlo camera without paying for a monthly subscription, but the available features may be more limited.
Current Arlo Subscription Plans
Arlo’s current U.S. subscription lineup has changed from the older Arlo Secure naming structure.
As of September 2026, Arlo says:
- Arlo Smart Aware Single supports one device and includes 60-day storage and AI features.
- Arlo Smart Aware supports unlimited cameras at one location.
- Arlo Smart Secure adds professional monitoring, emergency response, and threat-assessment features.
- Arlo Ultra Secure adds 30-day 24/7 recording for up to three devices.
Pricing and availability vary by market. Arlo’s U.S. website currently displays plans ranging from $9.99 per month for a single-camera plan to higher-priced unlimited-camera plans with additional security and monitoring features. Annual billing can have different effective monthly pricing.
Because pricing and plan names can change, check the official Arlo subscription page before purchasing.
What Does an Arlo Subscription Include?
The features included depend on your selected plan.
1. Video History
One of the main reasons users purchase an Arlo subscription is cloud video storage.
Supported plans allow recorded events to be stored in the Arlo cloud so you can access them later through supported devices.
Arlo’s current U.S. plans advertise 60-day video history on several subscription tiers.
This can be useful if you need to review an event that happened while you were away from home.
2. AI-Based Detection
Some Arlo plans provide advanced detection capabilities.
Depending on the plan and region, these can include detection or recognition for:
- People
- Vehicles
- Animals
- Packages
- Custom objects or events
Arlo also offers newer Early Warning System features, including person recognition, vehicle recognition, custom detection, and fire detection in supported regions.
3. Activity Zones
Activity zones allow you to define areas where you want the camera to pay particular attention to motion.
For example, you may want to monitor a driveway while reducing unnecessary alerts caused by movement in another part of the camera’s field of view.
Activity-zone availability depends on the applicable Arlo plan and device.
4. Interactive Notifications
Compatible subscription plans can provide enhanced notifications that give you more information about detected events.
Instead of simply receiving a basic motion alert, supported systems can provide additional event information and actions through the Arlo app.
5. Arlo Summary
Arlo’s updated subscription system includes Arlo Summary on eligible plans. Arlo describes this feature as an AI-generated summary of noteworthy recordings from the previous 24 hours.
Availability can depend on your region and subscription.
6. Professional Monitoring
Higher-level Arlo plans can include professional monitoring and emergency-response features.
Arlo’s Smart Secure plan includes 24/7 professional monitoring and emergency response in supported markets, while higher plans can include additional security capabilities.
These services are not available in every country, so check local availability before subscribing.
What Happens When the Arlo Trial Ends?
Many Arlo devices can include a trial of subscription features after setup.
Arlo states that its current Early Warning System trial activates after an eligible device is set up in the Arlo Secure app, with trial features varying by region.
When the trial ends, you generally have two choices:
- Purchase a compatible subscription.
- Continue using the camera without a paid plan.
If you don’t subscribe, features requiring a paid service, such as certain cloud video-history and activity-zone capabilities, may no longer be available. Basic functions can remain available depending on the camera and setup.
Can You Use Arlo Without a Subscription?
Yes, compatible Arlo cameras can still provide several useful features without a subscription.
According to Arlo, available features can include:
- Live streaming
- Motion alerts
- Doorbell calls
- Two-way audio
- Some local-storage functions
- Schedules and automations
- Camera modes
- Spotlight and siren functions on compatible devices
- Auto zoom and tracking on supported cameras
The exact feature set depends on your particular Arlo device.
Arlo Local Storage vs. Cloud Storage
Some Arlo systems support local recording through a compatible SmartHub or Base Station.
Local storage can provide an alternative way to save recordings, while an Arlo subscription can provide cloud-based video history and other services.
If local storage is important to you, check whether your specific camera and hub support the feature. Arlo notes that local-storage functionality varies between devices.
How to Subscribe to an Arlo Plan
Arlo provides subscription management through your Arlo account.
A typical process is:
- Sign in to your Arlo account.
- Open My Arlo Account.
- Select Get a Plan.
- Choose monthly or annual billing where available.
- Select the desired plan.
- Follow the on-screen purchase instructions.
Arlo states that the account owner must purchase the subscription; users who only have shared access to devices cannot purchase Arlo Secure for that account. At least one camera must also be added to the account before subscribing.
How Many Cameras Can an Arlo Subscription Cover?
This depends on the plan.
Some Arlo plans are designed for a single camera, while others cover multiple or unlimited cameras at a location.
If you have several Arlo cameras, check whether an unlimited-camera plan is available in your country. Arlo’s current U.S. plans include both single-camera and unlimited-camera options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an Arlo subscription required for every camera?
No. Compatible Arlo cameras can provide certain features without a paid subscription. However, features such as cloud video history and some advanced detection capabilities may require a plan.
How much does an Arlo subscription cost?
Pricing varies by country, plan, billing period, and features. In the U.S., Arlo currently lists single-camera pricing starting at $9.99 per month, with higher-priced plans available for unlimited cameras and additional services.
Can I cancel my Arlo subscription?
Arlo provides account tools for changing or canceling subscription plans. Review the terms and billing information associated with your specific plan before making changes.
Will my Arlo camera stop working if I cancel?
Not necessarily. Arlo says compatible devices can continue to provide features such as live streaming, motion notifications, and two-way audio without a paid plan. Subscription-only features may no longer be available.
Does every Arlo plan include professional monitoring?
No. Professional monitoring is associated with higher-level plans and is subject to regional availability.
Are Arlo subscription features available everywhere?
No. Some services and features vary by country or region. Always check Arlo’s current regional subscription information before purchasing.
Conclusion
An Arlo camera subscription can extend the capabilities of compatible Arlo security cameras by adding cloud video history, advanced detection, activity zones, enhanced notifications, and, on higher plans, professional monitoring and emergency-response features.