Research-based: compiled from the manufacturer's information and Australian retailer listings. NXT Smart Home has not tested this product.
The Arlo Ultra 2 Spotlight is a wire-free, battery-powered security camera that records 4K video. Our catalogue lists the single add-on camera, which Amazon Australia sells as model VMC5040-200AUS. Arlo's product tour describes a 4K lens with a 180-degree field of view and a weather-resistant housing for indoor or outdoor mounting. It also has an integrated spotlight that can be switched on manually or triggered by motion or sound, a siren on the built-in speaker, and dual microphones designed to cut wind noise. Charging uses a magnetic cable. The Amazon Australia listing highlights 4K HDR, colour night vision, two-way audio and up to six months of battery life per charge. That figure is Arlo's claim, and real battery life depends on how busy the camera is.
Who it suits, and the hub question
This add-on camera does not stand alone. Arlo's compatibility page lists Ultra 2 against four hubs: the VMB5000 and VMB4540 SmartHubs and the VMB4500 and VMB4000 base stations. It makes most sense for people who already own one of those, or who buy a bundle that includes a SmartHub. If you want a single camera that joins your Wi-Fi directly, look elsewhere.
Availability in Australia is mixed. Amazon Australia lists the add-on camera, and JB Hi-Fi's Arlo page lists an Ultra 2 camera system. Device Deal marks its two-camera Ultra 2 system (VMS5240-200AUS) as end of life and points buyers to the Ultra 3. Device Deal lists a power adapter in that bundle, and it quotes a one-year limited manufacturer warranty. Device Deal's listing also names Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, SmartThings and IFTTT as compatible platforms, while the Amazon Australia title mentions Alexa. We have not confirmed that list on an official Arlo Australia page.
Running costs
Cloud recording is part of Arlo Secure, which Arlo Australia sells as annual plans. On au.arlo.com, the Arlo Secure Basic Unlimited Annual Plan costs AUD $129 a year and includes 30-day 4K cloud recording and Activity Zones. The Arlo Secure Plus Unlimited Annual Plan costs AUD $179 a year and adds Priority Care & Support. Both cover all Arlo devices. The VMB5000 SmartHub also has a microSD slot for local storage.
Alternatives in our catalogue: the Ring Floodlight Cam Plus Wired is a hardwired floodlight camera for people who can run power to the mounting spot. The eufy eufyCam 3 (S380) 4K Solar Security Camera is a solar-assisted 4K option from eufy. The Ring Spotlight Cam Pro Battery is a battery spotlight camera for Ring households.