Installing Your Aqara Video Doorbell G4

The Aqara Video Doorbell G4 is a smart doorbell with 1080p video, real-time two-way audio, AI-powered face recognition, and integration with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home. It connects via Wi-Fi and can also serve as an Aqara Zigbee hub for nearby sensors. This guide covers the complete physical installation and software setup.

What You Will Need

• Aqara Video Doorbell G4
• Mounting bracket and screws (included)
• Rechargeable battery or existing doorbell wiring (8-24V AC)
• Aqara chime unit (included) or existing mechanical/electronic chime
• Aqara Home app installed on your smartphone (iOS or Android)
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Drill with appropriate drill bit (if mounting on brick or concrete)
• A 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network

Choosing Your Power Source

The Doorbell G4 can operate on its rechargeable battery or be wired to your existing doorbell transformer. If you have existing doorbell wiring (8-24V AC), the wired connection keeps the battery charged and enables your existing chime to ring. If you do not have existing wiring, the battery-powered option works well, though you will need to recharge it periodically.

Physical Installation

1. If replacing an existing doorbell, turn off the power to your doorbell circuit at the breaker panel. Remove the old doorbell from the wall and disconnect the wires.
2. Hold the mounting bracket against the wall at your desired height, approximately 120 centimeters from the ground for the best camera angle. Mark the screw hole positions with a pencil.
3. Drill pilot holes at the marked positions. Use wall anchors if mounting on drywall, brick, or concrete.
4. If using existing doorbell wiring, thread the wires through the opening in the mounting bracket before securing it to the wall.
5. Secure the mounting bracket to the wall using the included screws.
6. If wired, connect the two doorbell wires to the terminal screws on the back of the doorbell unit. Polarity does not matter for AC doorbell wiring.
7. Attach the doorbell unit to the mounting bracket by sliding it down until it clicks into place.
8. If using the wired connection, turn the power back on at the breaker panel.

Setting Up the Chime Unit

If you are using the included Aqara wireless chime:

1. Plug the chime unit into a wall outlet inside your home where you will easily hear it.
2. The chime will be paired with the doorbell during the app setup process.

Configuring in the Aqara Home App

1. Open the Aqara Home app and tap the + icon.
2. Select Video Doorbell G4 from the device list or scan the QR code on the device.
3. Follow the prompts to connect the doorbell to your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network.
4. When prompted, scan the setup QR code displayed on your phone screen using the doorbell's camera.
5. Wait for the connection to complete, then assign the doorbell to your front door or entry area.
6. If using the wireless chime, follow the additional prompt to pair it with the doorbell.

Configuring Motion and Alert Settings

• Motion Sensitivity — Adjust detection sensitivity in the doorbell settings. Lower sensitivity reduces false alerts from passing cars or animals.
• Detection Zones — Draw custom activity zones to focus detection on your porch or walkway and ignore the street.
• Face Recognition — Register familiar faces in the AI settings so you can receive personalized notifications when family members arrive.
• Quick Replies — Set up pre-recorded voice messages that can be played when someone presses the doorbell and you are unable to answer live.

HomeKit Secure Video

If you use Apple HomeKit with an iCloud+ subscription, you can enable HomeKit Secure Video for end-to-end encrypted cloud recording. Go to the doorbell settings in the Aqara Home app, select HomeKit Setup, and follow the prompts. Recordings are stored in iCloud and do not count against your storage limit.

Tips

• If battery-powered, expect to recharge every two to four months depending on activity level. The app will notify you when the battery is low.
• Angle the mounting bracket slightly downward if the doorbell is mounted higher than recommended to improve the camera's view of visitors' faces.
• The Doorbell G4 can serve as a Zigbee hub, so you can pair sensors near your front door directly to it for faster local automations.