Can't Connect Your Reolink Camera to Alexa? A Troubleshooting Guide
Integrating your Reolink security cameras with Amazon Alexa allows you to use voice commands and view live feeds on devices like the Echo Show and Fire TV. However, when the connection fails, it can be tricky to diagnose the problem. This guide will help you understand the compatibility requirements and solve the most common issues that prevent Reolink and Alexa from working together.
Before You Start: Check for Compatibility
The most important first step is to understand that not all Reolink cameras work with Amazon Alexa. Compatibility is dependent on the specific model and hardware version.
- How to Check: Visit the official Reolink support website and search for their list of Alexa-compatible cameras. If your model is not on this list, it will not be able to connect to Alexa. This is a hardware limitation and cannot be fixed with software updates.
If you have confirmed your camera is compatible, proceed with the troubleshooting steps below.
How to Fix Reolink and Alexa Integration Problems
Let's get your devices talking to each other.
### Step 1: Correctly Enable and Link the Reolink Skill
The connection is managed through an Alexa "Skill." If it's not set up correctly, nothing will work.
- Open the Amazon Alexa app on your smartphone.
- Go to the More tab and select Skills & Games.
- Search for "Reolink" and select the official skill.
- Tap Enable to Use.
- You will be redirected to a Reolink login page. Log in with your Reolink account credentials (the same username and password you use for the Reolink app).
- Once you authorise the link, the skill will be enabled.
Troubleshooting Tip: If you're already enabled the skill, a common fix is to Disable the skill, wait a minute, and then re-enable it. This forces a fresh authentication and can resolve many issues.
### Step 2: Discover Your Devices
After linking the skill, you must ask Alexa to scan for your camera.
- Simply say, "Alexa, discover devices."
- Alternatively, in the Alexa app, go to the Devices tab, tap the '+' icon, select Add Device, choose Camera, and follow the on-screen instructions to let Alexa scan for new devices.
If Alexa still can't find your camera, move to the next step.
### Step 3: Check Your Camera's Settings and Firmware
The camera itself needs to be configured for smart home integration.
- Enable UID: Log into your camera's settings via the Reolink app or client. Navigate to the Network Settings and ensure that the UID option is enabled. The UID is essential for cloud communication.
- Update Firmware: An outdated firmware is a very common cause of integration problems. In the Reolink app, go to your camera's Device Info and check for the latest firmware version. Update it if a new one is available.
### Step 4: Verify Network Configuration
Both your Alexa device (e.g., Echo Dot) and your Reolink camera must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If you have a router with multiple networks (e.g., a 2.4 GHz and a 5 GHz network, or a separate guest network), ensure both devices are on the primary network. A camera on a guest network will usually not be discoverable by Alexa devices on the main network.
By ensuring your camera is compatible, correctly linking the skill, and verifying your network and firmware, you can overcome the most common hurdles to a successful Reolink-Alexa integration.