Netgear Launches Arlo Ultra 4K HDR Wireless Security Cam With Smart Object Detection

The Arlo Ultra looks to leapfrog past the competition by upping the recording resolution and adding high dynamic resolution (HDR) into the mix. While the Nest Cam and Ring family of security cameras can record at Full HD (1080p) resolution, the Arlo Ultra records at 4K resolution. According to the company, this provides unmatched image clarity and detail which will allow the Arlo Ultra to better pinpoint a person's face or even license plate numbers on vehicles.

In addition, the Arlo Ultra features a 180-degree field of view, which is among the widest available in the wireless security camera market. Like the Ring Spotlight Cam, the Arlo Ultra now features an LED spotlight that can illuminate the surrounding area at night. This gives the camera the ability to record color details at night instead of less detailed black and white imagery.

Attention has also been paid to audio quality, as the Arlo Ultra is equipped with dual microphones that not only provide two-way audio, but employ noise cancellation to ward off annoying background noise. Just like previous models, the Arlo Ultra features a weather-resistant design that can be used both indoors and outdoors, and comes bundled with the Arlo SmartHub, which connects to your wireless router and serves as a Wi-Fi ranger extender. The SmartHub also includes a microSD slot if you want to take advantage of local storage for your recordings.

If you prefer cloud storage, a full year of Arlo Smart Premier is included for free with your purchase. With this service, you can take advantage of customized notifications based on activity that is detected (i.e. a car passing by, pets, people, etc.), e911 access, and cloud storage for your recordings. However, we have to point out that the Arlo Smart Premier will only store your videos in the cloud at 1080p resolution. If you want 4K video storage, you'll either have to use the microSD option or pay an addition charge for 4K cloud storage.

Netgear has priced the Arlo Ultra at $399 and says that the security camera will be available in Q1 2019.