Arlo’s Essential Indoor Camera is the anti-Big Brother

By Patrick Hearn Published March 2, 2021

The thought of an interior security camera often makes people uncomfortable. While you want a reliable security system, you also want to be sure that system isn’t watching you while you’re at home. In many instances, you just have to trust the camera isn’t recording — but with the new Arlo Essential Indoor Camera, you can know beyond a shadow of a doubt that it isn’t recording.

That’s because a physical privacy shield (with a different design and color) snaps into place when the camera is disarmed. This disables motion and audio detection as well as recording, and these features won’t be reenabled until you open the shield through the Arlo app. You can trigger the camera to begin recording simply by switching it back to armed mode. The ability to disable recording through a physical privacy shield provides more peace of mind to users and gives more control over the camera itself.

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The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera streams at 1080p HD with a 130-degree field of view. It also has full-duplex audio to ensure clarity in two-way conversations.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

The camera is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT for easy automation and control. Link your camera to other devices in your home for enhanced security; for example, you can flash your smart lights if motion is detected.

The camera also includes a complimentary three-month subscription to Arlo Smart, which provides users with rolling 30-day video recordings. You can also adjust and customize your notification settings and preview video clips straight from your notification screen without opening the app itself.

The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera is now available for pre-order from retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Arlo.com for $100. Its affordable price and wide range of utility make it perfect for use as a security camera, but it can also work as a baby monitor or a way to keep your eye on your pets while you’re away at work for the day.

As concern over smart home privacy continues to grow, Arlo is taking steps in the right direction by providing users with tangible proof that their privacy is secure.

Former Technology Writer

Patrick has written about tech for more than 15 years and isn't slowing down anytime soon. With previous clients ranging from…

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