For years, we've been following the evolution of Philips Hue lights, renowned for their color-changing capabilities and Wi-Fi connectivity. As these innovative lighting solutions gained popularity, they seamlessly integrated into countless smart home setups, alongside other essential devices like smart thermostats, doorbells, smoke alarms, and speakers. Today, we delve into the significant updates to the Philips Hue lineup that are bound to pique the interest of both loyal users and newcomers hesitant due to higher pricing.
One of the most noteworthy additions to the Philips Hue lineup is the introduction of the Hue Essential bulbs. Designed for those who have been deterred by the pricing of previous models, these new bulbs offer a more affordable option without compromising on quality. While they cannot dim as low as the flagship Hue bulbs and have a narrower color range, the standard A19/E26 versions are priced at just $25 per bulb, with a special deal bringing the price down to as low as $15 per bulb when purchased in a four-pack. This pricing represents a significant reduction, ranging from one-half to one-quarter of the typical cost of a standard Hue bulb.
Additionally, the Hue Essential line includes BR30 and GU10 bulbs, catering to various lighting needs. This strategic pricing approach aims to counteract recent tariff-related price increases announced by the company earlier this summer, making smart lighting accessible to a broader audience.
In parallel with the introduction of the budget-friendly options, the standard Hue bulbs are also receiving a much-anticipated upgrade. The latest models can now dim down to an impressive 0.2 percent, a substantial improvement over the 2 percent dimming capability of the Essential bulbs. Philips claims that these new standard bulbs will cover the full spectrum of visible color temperatures, ranging from 1,000 to 20,000 K, compared to the more limited 2,200 to 6,500 K range offered by the Essential bulbs.
Another significant enhancement is the launch of the Hue Bridge Pro, marking the first major update to the Hue ecosystem's bridge accessory in a decade. Priced at $99, this new bridge supports over 150 lights and more than 50 accessories, which is at least three times the capacity of its predecessor. While the previous Hue Bridge, available for $66, will continue to serve smaller setups, the new Bridge Pro will eventually allow users to consolidate multiple bridges into a single unit, streamlining their smart home experience. However, this multi-bridge replacement capability is expected to roll out later this year.
The Philips Hue lineup isn't just about bulbs and bridges; it also includes a variety of new accessories. These consist of indoor and outdoor strip lights, including more affordable options under the Essential brand, as well as Festavia-branded outdoor string lights. For those looking to enhance their home security, the new Hue Secure video doorbell is set to retail at $170. While the new hub and most bulbs are launching in North America today, the video doorbell is scheduled for release in October, with various strip and string lights expected to hit the market in November and December.
For detailed information on pricing and availability of all new Philips Hue accessories, refer to Signify's official press release. With these exciting innovations, Philips continues to solidify its position as a leader in the smart lighting industry, making it easier than ever for consumers to enhance their living spaces with intelligent lighting solutions.
