Can't Add Wyze Camera? A Step-by-Step Fixing Guide

Can't Add a New Wyze Camera to the App? Here's the Fix.

Setting up a new Wyze camera is usually a quick and simple process, but it can be very frustrating when it fails without a clear reason. Whether your camera gets stuck connecting to the network, refuses to scan the QR code, or simply won't power on, there's usually a straightforward solution.

This guide will walk you through the most common reasons why you might be unable to add your Wyze camera to the app. We'll provide clear, step-by-step instructions to help you troubleshoot the problem and complete your setup successfully.

Who is this guide for?

This guide is for anyone who is trying to set up a new Wyze camera (such as Wyze Cam v3, Pan, or Outdoor) and is encountering an error during the "Add a device" process in the Wyze app.

Common Wyze Camera Setup Problems

If you're unable to add your camera, you're likely experiencing one of these common issues:

• QR Code Won't Scan: The camera never says "QR code scanned, please wait."
• Stuck on "Connecting": The setup process gets stuck on "Connecting to your local network" or "Authenticating."
• "Cannot Find Specified Network Name": The camera fails to connect to your Wi-Fi.
• No "Ready to Connect" Voice Prompt: After plugging in the camera, you don't hear the initial voice prompt.
• Error Code 90: The app displays a generic connection failure error.
• Bluetooth Pairing Fails (for specific models): Newer cameras that use Bluetooth for setup fail to pair with your phone.

How to Troubleshoot a Failed Wyze Camera Setup

Work through these solutions in order. The vast majority of setup issues can be solved with these steps.

1. Check Your Wi-Fi Network and Password

This is the number one cause of setup failure.

• Connect to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi: Wyze cameras must be set up on a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network. They are not compatible with 5GHz networks for the initial setup. Open your phone's Wi-Fi settings and ensure you are connected to the 2.4GHz band before you begin.
• Verify Your Wi-Fi Password: It sounds simple, but a typo is a frequent mistake. Passwords are case-sensitive. Use the 'eye' icon in the password field to reveal and double-check what you've typed.
• Stay Close to Your Router: During the setup process, have your camera, your phone, and your Wi-Fi router all in the same room. A strong signal is crucial for the initial connection.
• Check Network Type: The camera cannot connect to enterprise networks (like those at hotels or offices that require a web browser login) or public Wi-Fi. You must be on a standard, password-protected home network.

2. Solve QR Code Scanning Issues

If the QR code is the problem, these tips will help.

• Remove Lens Film: Make sure you have removed the thin, clear plastic protective film from the camera's lens.
• Turn Up Phone Brightness: Set your smartphone's screen brightness to its maximum level.
• Find the Sweet Spot: Hold your phone screen about 15-20cm (6-8 inches) in front of the camera lens. If it doesn't scan immediately, slowly move it a little closer, then a little further away.
• No Glare: Ensure you're not under a bright light that could be causing a glare on your phone's screen, preventing the camera from reading the code.

3. Address Power and Boot-Up Problems

If the camera isn't behaving as expected when you plug it in:

• Press the SETUP Button: After plugging the camera in, press the SETUP or RESET button on the bottom or back of the camera. This will manually put it into pairing mode and should trigger the "Ready to connect" voice prompt.
• Check Your Power Source: Use the USB cable and power adapter that came in the Wyze box. If you're still having issues, try a different USB cable and a different power adapter to rule out a faulty power supply.
• Factory Reset: If the camera is unresponsive, a factory reset is the next step. Press and hold the SETUP button for 10-15 seconds. The status light will change (often to solid yellow or red), and you should hear it reboot. After the reset, begin the setup process from scratch.

4. Check App Permissions and Settings

The Wyze app needs certain permissions to work correctly.

• Enable Location Services: The Wyze app uses location services to identify nearby Wi-Fi networks. Make sure Location Services are turned on for the Wyze app in your phone's settings.
• Update the Wyze App: Go to the App Store or Google Play Store and make sure your Wyze app is fully updated to the latest version.
• Disable VPN: If you are using a VPN on your mobile device, disable it during the camera setup process.

By carefully checking these four key areas—Wi-Fi, QR code, power, and app settings—you can overcome nearly any issue preventing you from adding a new Wyze camera to your account.