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Subscription Required

Arlo Security Camera

Severity: Minor

Source: OnlyErrorCodes.com — Every error code. One place.

Arlo Subscription Required Error — Smart Features Locked

What Does This Error Mean?

Arlo's free tier is very limited — most features require Arlo Secure subscription.
'Subscription required' appears for cloud recording (no free), smart object detection (no free), interactive notifications (no free), and most useful features.
Either subscribe to Arlo Secure (3-15 USD/month) or use only live view + local recording to USB drive (Pro 4 and newer).
Many users feel Arlo's free tier is too crippled and switch to Reolink or other competitors.

Affected Models

  • Arlo Pro 4
  • Arlo Pro 5S
  • Arlo Ultra 2
  • Arlo Essential
  • Arlo Essential XL

Common Causes

  • Subscription expired or auto-renew failed (payment method issue)
  • Trial period ended (90-day trial converts to paid)
  • Free tier doesn't include the requested feature
  • Account downgraded after support call
  • Older 7-day free cloud recording was discontinued

How to Fix It

  1. Open Arlo app, check subscription.

    App → Profile → Subscription.
    Shows current plan and expiration.
    If 'No active subscription' or expired date, that's the issue.

  2. Update payment method if expired.

    If credit card expired or got declined, Arlo cancels the subscription silently.
    Update card in app, restart subscription.
    Recordings made during the lapsed window may not be recoverable.

  3. Choose a plan that fits.

    Arlo Secure: 3 USD/month for 1 camera, 12 USD/month for unlimited.
    Includes 30-day cloud recording, smart alerts (person/vehicle/package).
    Arlo Secure Plus adds emergency response, priority support — 18 USD/month.
    Pick what matches your needs.

  4. Use local recording (Pro 4 and newer).

    Arlo Pro 4, Ultra 2, and newer support local USB recording at the SmartHub.
    No subscription needed for local recording.
    You lose cloud backup but at least you have recordings.

  5. Consider switching brands.

    If Arlo's prices don't fit your budget, brands like Reolink, Eufy, and Wyze offer more features in their free tiers.
    Migrating means buying new cameras — only worth it for major Arlo investments.
    Sell old Arlos on eBay; buy alternatives.

  6. Try Arlo Free trial again.

    If you're a new user (created account in past 90 days), Arlo Secure Trial is included.
    Confirm you're using your trial before it expires.
    Set a calendar reminder before auto-renew to decide whether to keep paying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Arlo so subscription-heavy?

Arlo's business model shifted around 2019-2020 from one-time purchase to subscription revenue.
Free cloud recording was removed.
The hardware is high quality, but the ongoing cost is significant.
Read the fine print before buying — and consider competitors with more generous free tiers.