Netgear to open up Arlo with IFTTT integration this April

A software update scheduled for April will allow Netgear's range of Arlo cameras to communicate with other smart home appliances through recipe service IFTTT (if this then that).

Netgear's Arlo boss Damir Skripic told CyberShack that IFTTT-based Arlo recipes will be able to trigger on either motion detection or audio detection. For example, if an Arlo camera detects motion, through IFTTT, it will be able to turn on compatible smart bulbs (LIFX and Philips Hue, for example) or tell select speakers to play music. IFTTT recipes will also allow users to arm and disarm cameras based on certain events. This could be as simple as arming the cameras when a master smartphone leaves the area, or setting up a WeMo switch to toggle them between on or off.

Netgear has discussed expanding the Arlo ecosystem since it first unveiled the cameras at the beginning of 2015. Initially, the company planned to only allow certain products to communicate with its cameras. Instead, the use of IFTTT as a communication platform means Arlo devices will be compatible with any other IFTTT-enabled smart home device.

Both the existing Arlo Wire-Free and the newly released Arlo Q will work with IFTTT.

The news coincides with the local launch of the Arlo Q, the wired version of Netgear's security camera. Due to not relying on battery power, the Arlo Q is able to record continuously in 1080p, and also features a two-way microphone.

Arlo Q is available from JB Hi-Fi and Harvey Norman for AUD$349. In order to make use of the Arlo Q's continuous recording, users are required to purchase an additional subscription per Arlo Q. This is billed at AUD$12.99 for 14 days of continuous 24 / 7 recording per camera, or AUD$24.99 for 30 days per camera. A yearly plan is available, for AUD$249 per camera. Customers with more than one Arlo Q are eligible to receive 50% off any continuous video recording after the their first.