We have already seen some new light bulbs that will be controlled by Google’s new Android @ Home software, and now there are also some other new light bulbs in the works that will have their own IP addresses.
NXP from the Netherlands is developing networked LED light bulbs, which will come with their own IP address and can be connected via WiFi. However, these bulbs will use the 802.15.4 wireless protocol, which means they won’t interfere with the bandwidth used by your other gadgets that operate on the 802.11 standard.
Advantages of Networked LED Light Bulbs
The WiFi light bulbs are expected to be available later this year, and they will be able to be controlled via a WiFi remote. This innovation brings several advantages. Firstly, having an IP address for each bulb allows for more precise control and automation. You can turn on, dim, or change the color of individual bulbs from your smartphone or other connected devices. This level of control can be particularly useful in smart home setups where lighting can be adjusted based on time of day, occupancy, or even mood.
Moreover, using the 802.15.4 protocol ensures that these bulbs won’t clog up your WiFi network, which is crucial for maintaining the performance of other connected devices like laptops, smartphones, and smart TVs. This protocol is designed for low-rate wireless personal area networks (LR-WPANs), making it ideal for applications like smart lighting where data transmission requirements are minimal but reliability is essential.
Cost and Accessibility
The expected cost of about $50 for a pack of 5 bulbs makes these networked LED light bulbs an affordable option for many households. Considering the energy efficiency and long lifespan of LED bulbs, this initial investment can lead to significant savings on electricity bills over time. Additionally, the ability to control these bulbs remotely can contribute to further energy savings by ensuring that lights are only on when needed.
For example, you could set up a schedule to turn off all lights when you leave for work and turn them back on just before you return home. You could also integrate these bulbs with other smart home devices like motion sensors, so lights automatically turn off when no movement is detected for a certain period.
Take a look at our article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you.
Source Gizmodo
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