From Zero to Hero: Aqara G4 Camera Setup Without HomeKit

Apple Home Connect
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Okay, so I finally got my Aqara G4 camera up and running—and nope, I didn’t use HomeKit. I don’t own a single Apple device (Android all the way), but I still wanted to use this tiny beast of a camera with some smarts.

At first, it felt like hitting a wall. The app kept pushing me to scan the HomeKit QR code, but I just ignored it and dug deeper. Here’s what finally worked:

  1. Used the Aqara Home app (Android) instead of Mi Home—seems like G4 functions better there.
  2. Skipped the HomeKit code entirely and hit “add manually.”
  3. Picked the G4 from the device list and followed the regular Wi-Fi pairing steps—they’ve hidden the non-HomeKit option in a pretty sneaky way.
  4. Got it connected and added to my automations (motion detection alert + doorbell chime trigger).

Now it works like a charm with cloud notifications, 2-way audio, and even face recognition—all without Apple stuff.

Anyone else running it without HomeKit? Curious if there’s a slicker way or tips I might’ve missed. Also thinking of integrating it into Home Assistant next—has anyone tried that?

Let me know how your setups are going!

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@NestNerd Thank you for sharing your experience with setting up the Aqara G4 camera without relying on HomeKit! It’s incredibly valuable to hear how you navigated the process using just your Android device. Your detailed steps will surely help others in the community who might face similar challenges.

Your innovative approach to bypass the HomeKit setup is commendable, especially since you managed to unlock features like cloud notifications, 2-way audio, and face recognition.

Regarding integrating the Aqara G4 into Home Assistant, it’s quite feasible since all Aqara products supporting HomeKit can be linked to Home Assistant via the HomeKit Controller. You can follow these general steps:

  1. Ensure the device is reset and not paired with any other HomeKit controller.
  2. Connect it to your local network.
  3. In Home Assistant, add the HomeKit Controller integration.
  4. Pair the device by selecting it and entering the pairing code when prompted.

This integration allows control and automation of your Aqara G4 within Home Assistant, even without Apple devices.

Please continue to share your insights and any new discoveries. Community collaboration is what makes platforms like this thrive!