Step 1: Download Both Apps
To begin connecting your Ring device to Alexa, the first and most essential step is to download both the Ring app and the Alexa app onto your smartphone or tablet. These two apps serve as the control centers for each respective system—Ring for your smart security devices, and Alexa for voice-controlled interactions and smart home integration.
Why You Need Both Apps
The Ring app is necessary to set up and manage your Ring doorbells, cameras, and other security devices. It lets you control settings, view live video feeds, receive alerts, and customize how your Ring products behave.
The Alexa app, on the other hand, allows you to set up and manage Alexa-enabled devices like Echo speakers and smart displays. It also provides the interface through which Alexa interacts with other smart home devices—like your Ring doorbell or camera.
Without both apps installed and set up, Alexa cannot access or control your Ring devices.
Where to Download
- iPhone or iPad (iOS):
Go to the App Store, search for “Ring – Always Home” and “Amazon Alexa,” and tap “Get” to download each app.
- Android Phones or Tablets:
Open the Google Play Store, search for the same apps, and tap “Install.”
Make sure you’re downloading the official versions developed by Ring.com and Alexa Mobile LLC, respectively. Look for the correct logos and check for high user ratings and reviews to ensure you’re installing the trusted versions.
Install and Log In
Once both apps are installed:
- Open the Ring app and sign in or create a Ring account if you don’t have one.
- Open the Alexa app and log in using your Alexa account credentials.
With both apps downloaded and logged in, you’re ready to move on to the next step—setting up your Ring device or enabling the Ring skill in Alexa.
This foundational step ensures that everything is in place for a smooth connection between Ring and Alexa.
Step 2: Set Up Your Ring Device
After downloading the Ring app, the next crucial step is setting up your Ring device—whether it’s a doorbell or a security camera. This ensures your device is connected to Wi-Fi and ready for Alexa integration.
1. Create or Log In to Your Ring Account
Open the Ring app and either log in or create a new account using your email address and a secure password.
2. Tap “Set Up a Device”
Once logged in, tap the “Set Up a Device” option. Select the type of device you’re installing (e.g., “Doorbells” or “Cameras”) and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Scan the QR Code
Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code found on the back of your Ring device or in the packaging. This helps the app identify your model and configuration needs.
4. Name Your Device
Choose a name for your device (e.g., “Front Door,” “Garage Cam”) to easily identify it when using Alexa.
5. Put the Device in Setup Mode
To enter setup mode, press and release the setup button on your Ring device. The front light should start flashing, indicating it’s ready to connect.
6. Connect to Wi-Fi
When prompted, connect your Ring device to your home Wi-Fi network. Make sure you’re close to your router during this step to ensure a strong signal. Enter your Wi-Fi password and wait for confirmation.
7. Complete Firmware Updates
If the app prompts for a firmware update, allow it to complete. This ensures your device runs the latest software for security and performance.
8. Test the Device
Press the button on your Ring device or trigger motion detection to test its responsiveness. Open the Ring app to view live video or hear alerts.
Once setup is complete, your Ring device is now ready to be connected to Alexa in the next step.
Step 3: Open the Alexa App
Once your Ring device is set up and working properly, the next step is to open the Alexa app. This app serves as the central control hub for all your Alexa-enabled devices, including smart speakers (like Echo Dot), displays (like Echo Show), and compatible smart home devices—such as Ring.
1. Launch the Alexa App
Locate the Alexa app on your smartphone or tablet. Tap the icon to open it. If you haven’t already, sign in using your Alexa account credentials. This should be the same account linked to your Alexa-enabled devices.
If you don’t have an account yet, you’ll need to create one by tapping “Create a New Alexa Account.” You’ll enter your name, email address, and a secure password.
2. Familiarize Yourself with the App Interface
After logging in, you’ll land on the Alexa app’s home screen. From here, you can control devices, set up routines, create reminders, manage music, and more.
At the bottom of the screen, you’ll see several navigation tabs:
- Home – Overview and updates
- Devices – Your smart home dashboard
- Communicate – Alexa calls and messages
- Play – Music and media
- More – Settings, routines, and skills
You’ll be using the “More” and “Devices” tabs frequently when managing your Ring-Alexa integration.
3. Check Your Alexa Devices
Go to the Devices tab to confirm that your Echo or Alexa-compatible devices are online and ready to use. If you’re planning to view Ring camera feeds on an Echo Show or receive alerts via Echo speakers, they need to be set up already.
Having the Alexa app open, logged in, and connected to your Alexa devices lays the groundwork for enabling the Ring skill and completing the integration in the next steps.
Step 4: Go to “More”
After opening the Alexa app and confirming that your Alexa account is active and your Echo devices are online, the next step is to navigate to the “More” menu. This menu acts as the central settings hub where you can access key features like Skills & Games, Settings, Routines, and Device Setup—including the option to link third-party services like Ring.
1. Locate the “More” Button
At the bottom right corner of the Alexa app’s main screen, you’ll see a tab labeled “More” with a three-line icon (≡). Tap this to open the expanded options menu.
This section allows you to control various parts of your Alexa ecosystem, including:
- Skills & Games
- Routines
- Reminders
- Settings
- Help & Feedback
2. Why “More” Matters for Ring Setup
To connect Ring to Alexa, you need to enable the Ring skill, which is housed inside the “Skills & Games” area. This is only accessible through the “More” menu. The “Skills & Games” section functions similarly to an app store for Alexa—letting you add new features, services, and integrations.
Without accessing the “More” menu, you won’t be able to locate or enable the Ring skill, which is a required step for allowing Alexa to interact with your Ring doorbell or camera.
3. Prepare for Skill Activation
Once you’re in the “More” menu, get ready to move into the “Skills & Games” section, which is where you’ll search for and activate the Ring integration. This will allow Alexa to receive Ring alerts, stream video, and respond to commands like “Alexa, show the front door.”
The “More” menu is a gateway to customizing Alexa’s behavior and linking it with third-party smart home devices. It’s simple to use, but essential for making the most of your smart home setup.
Step 5: Select “Skills & Games”
Once you’re in the “More” menu of the Alexa app, the next important step is to tap on “Skills & Games.” This section is essentially the app store for Alexa—it’s where you browse, enable, and manage third-party integrations that expand what Alexa can do.
1. Accessing the Section
From the “More” menu (≡) in the Alexa app, scroll down and select “Skills & Games.” Tapping this option opens a new screen where you can discover thousands of skills designed to enhance Alexa’s functionality.
2. What Are Alexa Skills?
Think of Alexa skills like apps for your smartphone. They allow Alexa to interact with other services, devices, or provide information. Some popular categories include:
- Smart Home (like Ring, Philips Hue, Nest)
- News & Weather
- Entertainment (like Spotify, Audible, or Apple Music)
- Utilities and productivity
- Games and trivia
To make Alexa compatible with your Ring device, you’ll need to search for and enable the Ring skill.
3. Why This Step Matters
The Ring skill is what allows Alexa to communicate with your Ring doorbell or camera. Without enabling this skill, Alexa won’t be able to receive Ring alerts, show live camera feeds, or respond to commands like “Alexa, talk to the front door.”
When you enable the Ring skill, you’re giving permission for Alexa to access your Ring account and devices securely. It’s a necessary bridge between both platforms.
4. What to Expect Next
After selecting “Skills & Games,” you’ll use the search feature (usually a magnifying glass icon at the top) to find “Ring.” Once you locate the official Ring skill, you’ll proceed to enable it and link your Ring account.
Selecting “Skills & Games” sets you up to unlock powerful smart home integration between Alexa and your Ring system.
Step 6: Search for “Ring”
Now that you’re inside the “Skills & Games” section of the Alexa app, the next step is to search for the Ring skill—the key feature that allows Alexa to interact with your Ring devices. Without this step, Alexa won’t recognize or control your Ring doorbell or security camera.
1. Use the Search Bar
At the top of the “Skills & Games” screen, you’ll see a search icon (usually shaped like a magnifying glass). Tap on it to open the search bar.
Type “Ring” into the search field and press enter or tap the search button on your keyboard.
2. Find the Official Ring Skill
You’ll see a list of results related to Ring. Look for the official skill titled “Ring” by Ring.com. It’s typically the first or most prominent result, often featuring the recognizable Ring logo (a white circle with a blue ring around it).
Before tapping, confirm you’re selecting the correct one. The official skill will usually have thousands of reviews and a high star rating, which is a good sign of authenticity and reliability.
3. Why You’re Searching for the Ring Skill
This step connects Alexa with your existing Ring account. Once the skill is enabled and linked to your Ring credentials, Alexa will be able to:
- Show live views from Ring cameras or doorbells on Echo Show or Fire TV
- Announce doorbell rings through Echo speakers
- Allow two-way talk with visitors at your door (on supported devices)
- Alert you to motion detection events
4. Prepare to Enable the Skill
Once you’ve found the correct Ring skill, tap on it to open the details page. You’ll soon proceed to the next step: enabling the skill and linking your Ring account.
This search step may be quick, but it’s critical for activating the full integration between Alexa and your Ring devices.
Step 7: Enable the Ring Skill
After finding the official Ring skill in the “Skills & Games” section of the Alexa app, the next step is to enable it. This is a key moment in the setup process, as it authorizes Alexa to access and control your Ring devices through your Alexa account.
1. Tap “Enable to Use”
Once you’ve opened the official Ring skill page, tap the “Enable to Use” button. This starts the process of linking your Ring account to Alexa.
2. Sign In to Your Ring Account
You’ll be redirected to a secure Ring login screen within the Alexa app. Here, enter your Ring account email and password—the same credentials you used when setting up your Ring doorbell or camera in the Ring app.
If you have two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled on your Ring account (which is recommended), you may need to enter a verification code sent to your email or phone.
3. Grant Permissions
Once signed in, you may be asked to authorize Alexa to access certain Ring features, such as:
- Viewing live video from cameras or doorbells
- Sending notifications to Alexa devices
- Enabling two-way audio through Alexa-enabled displays or speakers
Tap “Authorize” or “Allow” when prompted. This ensures that Alexa can communicate with and control your Ring devices properly.
4. Confirmation
After successful login and authorization, you’ll be returned to the Alexa app and see a confirmation message saying the Ring skill has been enabled. From this point, Alexa can interact with your Ring products.
5. Next Step: Discover Devices
You’re now ready to proceed to the next step, which is telling Alexa to discover your Ring devices so they can be added to your Alexa smart home dashboard.
Enabling the Ring skill officially links the two ecosystems, unlocking a range of convenient voice-control and automation options.
Step 8: Sign In to Your Ring Account
After tapping “Enable to Use” on the Ring skill page in the Alexa app, you’ll be redirected to a secure login screen where you’ll sign in to your Ring account. This is an essential step that allows Alexa to access your Ring devices and integrate them into your smart home ecosystem.
1. Enter Your Credentials
On the Ring login screen, you’ll be asked to enter the email address and password associated with your Ring account—the same one you used to set up your Ring doorbell or camera in the Ring app.
Double-check your email for typos and ensure that the password is correct. If you’ve forgotten your credentials, you can tap “Forgot password?” to reset them.
2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
For security, Ring typically requires two-factor authentication (2FA). After entering your password, you may receive a verification code via text message or email. Enter this code when prompted to confirm your identity.
This added layer of protection ensures that only you can link your Ring devices to Alexa.
3. Authorize Alexa to Access Ring
Once logged in, the app will ask you to authorize Alexa to access your Ring devices and settings. This is a necessary step that grants Alexa permission to:
- View live camera feeds
- Announce doorbell presses and motion alerts
- Allow voice control and routines through Alexa
Tap “Authorize” or “Allow” to complete the process.
4. Successful Login
After authorization, you’ll automatically return to the Alexa app. You should see a message confirming that the Ring skill has been enabled and that Alexa is now linked to your Ring account.
Now you’re ready for the next step—device discovery, where Alexa will find and list your Ring devices so you can start using them with voice commands.
Step 9: Discover Devices
After successfully signing into your Ring account and enabling the Ring skill in the Alexa app, the next essential step is to discover your Ring devices. This process allows Alexa to locate and add your Ring doorbells and cameras to your smart home device list, enabling voice commands and other integrations.
1. Start Device Discovery
In the Alexa app, navigate to the Devices tab at the bottom of the screen. Then tap the “+” icon, usually located at the top right corner, and select “Add Device.”
From the list of device types, choose “Doorbell” or “Camera”—whichever Ring device you have installed. You can also select “All Devices” to search for any compatible Ring product linked to your account.
2. Allow Alexa to Scan for Devices
Alexa will now scan your home network and Ring account for devices ready to connect. This process usually takes less than a minute.
During this time, ensure your Ring devices are powered on and connected to Wi-Fi. A strong network signal is crucial to ensure the devices appear quickly.
3. Confirmation of Found Devices
Once the scan is complete, Alexa will display a list of discovered Ring devices by name (e.g., “Front Door,” “Backyard Camera”).
If your device doesn’t appear immediately, try restarting the Alexa app or your Ring device and repeat the discovery process.
4. Test Your Devices
After successful discovery, test your devices using Alexa voice commands like:
- “Alexa, show me the front door.”
- “Alexa, arm the Ring security system.”
- “Alexa, do I have any notifications from Ring?”
Your devices should respond promptly, showing live video on Echo Show devices or announcing alerts on Echo speakers.
5. Manage Devices
You can now manage your Ring devices from the Alexa app’s Devices tab—rename them, organize them into groups, or customize notifications.
Step 10: Use Alexa with Ring
Now that your Ring devices are connected to Alexa, you can start using voice commands and Alexa features to control and interact with your Ring doorbells and cameras. This integration allows you to enhance your home security experience with convenient, hands-free control.
1. View Live Video
If you have an Echo Show, Echo Spot, or Fire TV, you can ask Alexa to show live video from your Ring devices. Simply say:
- “Alexa, show me the front door.”
- “Alexa, show the backyard camera.”
The live feed will appear on your compatible Alexa device, letting you monitor your home instantly without needing to open the Ring app.
2. Get Doorbell Announcements
Enable announcements so Alexa will notify you whenever someone presses your Ring doorbell. Alexa will say something like:
- “Someone is at the front door.”
This feature works on Echo speakers and displays, helping you stay alert even if you’re away from your phone.
3. Talk to Visitors
With two-way audio enabled on supported Echo devices, you can talk to visitors at your door without physically going to the doorbell. Simply say:
- “Alexa, answer the front door.”
You can then speak and hear your visitor through your Echo device, adding convenience and security.
4. Receive Motion Alerts
Alexa can announce motion alerts detected by your Ring cameras or doorbells. For example:
- “Motion detected at the driveway.”
You can customize which devices send announcements through the Alexa app settings.
5. Create Routines
Use the Alexa app to create custom routines involving your Ring devices. For instance, you can set Alexa to turn on smart lights when motion is detected or send you a notification when the doorbell rings.
6. Control Multiple Devices
If you have multiple Ring devices, you can specify which one you want to interact with by name, such as “Alexa, show the garage camera” or “Alexa, is the back door secure?”
Using Alexa with your Ring devices makes your smart home safer and more convenient. Ready for tips on customizing notifications or troubleshooting? Just ask!
