Phillips has this week announced the imminent launch of a new, more affordable Hue Smart Light Bulb Kit that takes the form of a $40 wireless dimming kit. This new kit aims to make smart lighting more accessible to a broader audience by offering a cost-effective solution without compromising too much on functionality.
Key Features and Differences
Although to bring the price down from the original starter kits that are priced around $200, Philips has needed to remove a number of the features for the new $40 bundle. One of the most significant changes is the removal of support to control the lights via your smartphone. This means that users will not be able to use the Philips Hue app to manage their lighting setup, which is a key feature in the more expensive kits.
However, the latest $40 kit does come supplied with a battery-powered dimmer switch that can be positioned anywhere within your home. This switch is fitted with four buttons, allowing for basic control over the lighting. The CR2450 battery should last for three years, according to Phillips, which means minimal maintenance is required. The Hue LED bulb included in the kit is rated for 25,000 hours, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Functionality and Expansion
Phillips also explains that the dimmer switch is capable of changing the brightness on up to 10 bulbs at once. This feature is particularly useful for those who want to control multiple lights in a single room or across different rooms without needing multiple switches. However, it’s important to note that extra bulbs will need to be purchased separately at a cost of $20 each. This allows users to expand their smart lighting setup gradually, making it a flexible and scalable solution.
For those who are new to smart lighting, this kit offers a great starting point. It provides the essential features needed to experience the convenience and ambiance that smart lighting can offer. While it lacks some of the advanced features found in the higher-end kits, such as smartphone control and integration with other smart home devices, it still offers a significant upgrade over traditional lighting solutions.
Additional Considerations
When considering the purchase of the $40 Hue Smart Light Bulb Kit, it’s also worth thinking about the long-term benefits and potential upgrades. For instance, users who find the dimmer switch convenient might eventually decide to invest in the more advanced kits that offer smartphone control and additional features like color-changing bulbs and integration with voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
Moreover, the Philips Hue ecosystem is known for its reliability and quality. The bulbs are energy-efficient, which can lead to cost savings on electricity bills over time. The ability to control multiple bulbs with a single dimmer switch also adds to the convenience, making it easier to create the perfect lighting ambiance for any occasion.
For more details on the range of Phillips Hue lighting that is available, jump over to the official website. Here, you can explore the various options and find the best solution to meet your lighting needs. Whether you’re looking to start small with the $40 kit or invest in a more comprehensive setup, Philips Hue offers a range of products to suit different preferences and budgets.
Source: Phillips
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