Aqara Camera Audio Not Working? Troubleshooting Steps
Aqara cameras are a great addition to any smart home, but it can be a real problem when the audio stops working. Whether you can't hear what's happening on the live stream or the two-way talk feature has gone silent, this guide will help you diagnose and solve the issue. These steps apply whether you're using the camera in the Aqara app or through Apple HomeKit.
## Essential First Checks: App Settings
Before you reboot or reset anything, let's ensure all the settings within the app are correct. This is where the majority of audio problems originate.
### 1. Check the Mute Button in Live View
This is the most common reason for no sound. It's easy to accidentally tap the mute icon.
- Open the Aqara Home app and select the camera you're having issues with.
- When the live stream appears, look for a speaker or microphone icon.
- If the icon has a line through it or looks "off," it's muted. Tap the icon to enable the sound. You should immediately start hearing audio from the camera's location.
### 2. Grant Microphone Permissions to the App
For two-way audio to function, the Aqara Home app must have permission to use your smartphone's microphone.
- On iOS (iPhone/iPad): Go to Settings > Privacy > Microphone. Find "Aqara Home" in the list and make sure the toggle switch is on (green).
- On Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Aqara Home > Permissions. Tap on "Microphone" and ensure it is set to "Allow".
### 3. Check Camera-Specific Settings
Some cameras have an internal setting that can disable the microphone entirely.
- In the Aqara app, go to the camera's live view and tap the three dots (...) to enter the settings menu.
- Look for options like "Camera Settings," "Audio Settings," or "Microphone."
- Ensure that the microphone is enabled or toggled on.
Intermediate Troubleshooting: Reboots and Updates
If the app settings are all correct, the next step is to refresh the connection and software of your devices.
### 4. Power Cycle the Camera
A simple reboot can fix many temporary software glitches.
- Unplug your Aqara camera from its power source.
- Wait for 30 seconds.
- Plug the camera back in and allow it a couple of minutes to fully boot up and reconnect to your network.
- Once it's back online, check for audio in the app again.
### 5. Update Firmware
Aqara frequently releases firmware updates to fix bugs and improve device performance. An outdated firmware could be the cause of your audio issue.
- Go to the camera's settings page within the Aqara app.
- Tap on "Firmware Update".
- The app will check for a new version. If one is available, proceed with the update. Keep the camera powered on and connected during this process.
## Advanced Checks: HomeKit and Resets
If you're still having trouble, especially if you use Apple HomeKit, these final steps may help.
### 6. Check HomeKit Audio Settings
If you are viewing the camera through the Apple Home app, there are separate audio controls.
- Open the Home app and go to your camera's feed.
- In the top left corner, you will see a settings icon. Tap on it.
- Under "Streaming & Recording," ensure that "Audio" is enabled for both streaming and recording options.
### 7. Factory Reset the Camera
This is a last resort, as it will erase all your settings and require you to set up the camera from scratch.
- Find the reset button on your Aqara camera. It is typically a small pinhole button.
- With the camera powered on, use a paperclip to press and hold the reset button for about 10 seconds until the indicator light flashes.
- The camera will restart. You will then need to go through the entire "Add Device" process again in the Aqara app.
If after a full factory reset the audio is still not working, it may indicate a hardware failure with the camera's microphone. In this case, you should contact Aqara support for further assistance.