Tag: Philips Hue

  • iConnectHue Update: Enhanced Switch Editor for Philips Hue

    iConnectHue Update: Enhanced Switch Editor for Philips Hue

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iConnectHue app for Philips Hue smart lighting has been updated to version 5.9, introducing enhanced controls for users.
    2. A new switch editor organizes actions by category and allows users to change color and brightness of individual lights.
    3. The app includes eight Easter-themed lighting scenes available until the end of April.
    4. Future updates may include new setup wizards for switch actions and improvements for widgets and shortcuts.
    5. A 25% discount on the iConnectHue app is currently available, likely lasting until the end of April.


    The iConnectHue application for Philips Hue smart lighting has received an update. This iOS application designed for iPhone and iPad users provides various new controls for those who own Philips Hue smart home devices, including smart timers, switches, and dynamic lighting scenes.

    New Features in Version 5.9

    The latest version, 5.9 of the iConnectHue app, introduces an improved switch editor, where actions are now organized by category. New switch actions have been added, such as the options to change the color or modify the brightness of individual lights. Additionally, users can reset the fade time using a new reset icon, and the lock screen icon is back after a short removal period. Support for new lights has been included, along with numerous bug fixes and enhancements for stability. There are also eight Easter-themed lighting scenes available, including ‘Eggs nest’, ‘Pastel eggs’, and ‘Crocuses’, which will last until the end of April.

    Future Updates and Discounts

    According to the release notes for version 5.9 of the iConnectHue app, there are several potential features planned for future updates, such as new setup wizards for switch actions and actions for coming or leaving. If you face any problems with widgets or shortcuts, the company suggests restarting your device to fix the issue. Moreover, there is currently a 25% discount available on the iConnectHue app, which is likely to continue until the end of April.

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  • Philips Hue Update for Smart Home Users: What’s New?

    Philips Hue Update for Smart Home Users: What’s New?

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue launched version 5.40.0 of its app for iOS and Android, following version 5.39.0.
    2. The previous update introduced new “Spring Breeze” lighting scenes, including Crocus, Blossom, and The Colors of Nature.
    3. Version 5.40.0 includes various bug fixes and stability improvements, but no new features were added.
    4. Users are still awaiting the release of the Philips Hue AI assistant for creating smart lighting scenes with voice or text commands.
    5. The app version 5.40.0 is available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.


    Philips Hue recently launched the 5.40.0 version of its application for users on iOS and Android. This update comes after the 5.39.0 version, which introduced a fresh set of “Spring Breeze” scenes for smart lighting devices, such as the Play Light Bar (currently priced at $32 on Amazon). The new scenes include familiar ones like Crocus and Blossom, alongside an all-day scene called The Colors of Nature.

    Update Details

    According to the release notes for the Philips Hue app 5.40.0 available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, the update includes “various bug fixes and stability improvements.” Sadly, there are no additional specifics about how customers might benefit from these changes. We also explored the app but found no noticeable new features or enhancements.

    Looking Ahead

    In addition, users are still waiting for the much-anticipated Philips Hue AI assistant to be unveiled. A button that seemed associated with this feature was discovered in version 5.38.1. This expected capability would let users create smart lighting scenes using voice or text commands, but it has not yet been made available. If you’re interested in getting the Philips Hue app version 5.40.0, you can download it from either the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

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  • Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box Adds 144Hz Lighting Support

    Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box Adds 144Hz Lighting Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Firmware version 2.5.0 released for both Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 4K and 8K models.
    2. Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 8K introduces new features, including support for Display Stream Compression (DSC) pass-through for 8K@60Hz.
    3. Improvements in input source switching reduce delay for LG TV users with PlayStation 5.
    4. The update adds support for 3D pass-through and light syncing at 144Hz.
    5. Firmware updates are automatically installed, and users can check settings in the Philips Hue app.


    An update is being released for the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 4K and the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 8K. The 8K version debuted in October 2024, while both models received their last updates in December.

    Firmware Enhancements

    According to the release notes for firmware version 2.5.0, the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 4K has received several bug fixes and small upgrades; however, there are no additional specifics shared. On the other hand, the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 8K benefits from numerous new features and improvements.

    New Features For 8K Model

    These enhancements include the addition of support for Display Stream Compression (DSC) pass-through for 8K@60Hz, specifically for the PlayStation 5 Pro console, which is currently priced at $699 on Amazon. Furthermore, there are improvements in input source switching, which reportedly decreases delay for LG TV users utilizing a PlayStation 5. This update also brings support for 3D pass-through and light syncing at 144Hz. Philips Hue has also addressed issues related to CEC power on/off and auto-off functionalities.

    Updating Your Device

    Firmware version 2.5.0 will be automatically installed on the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 8K and the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 4K. To check if automatic updates are enabled, you can go to the Philips Hue app and navigate to Settings > Software update.

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  • Philips Hue App Update Introduces New Smart Lighting Scenes

    Philips Hue App Update Introduces New Smart Lighting Scenes

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Philips Hue app has been updated to version 5.39.0 for iOS and Android.
    2. Eight new smart lighting scenes called “Spring Breeze” have been added, featuring various color transitions.
    3. An all-day scene named “The Colors of Nature” adjusts colors throughout the day to align with circadian rhythms.
    4. The Philips Hue AI assistant icon has reverted to its original magnifying glass design without changes to search capabilities.
    5. The app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.


    A fresh iteration of the Philips Hue app has just been released for both iOS and Android platforms. The update, version 5.39.0, comes shortly after version 5.38.0, which introduced a QR code feature to simplify product setup and made improvements for users with several Hue Bridge units (currently priced at $44.99 on Amazon).

    New Lighting Scenes

    The latest Philips Hue app update, version 5.39.0, introduces eight exciting new smart lighting scenes under the title “Spring Breeze.” The standard scenes include Crocus, Blossom, Spring Lake, Spring Blossom, Precious, Narcissa, and Baby’s Breath. These scenes feature a variety of color transitions; for instance, Crocus showcases green, yellow, orange, pink, and purple hues.

    All-Day Scene Feature

    Another addition is an all-day scene called The Colors of Nature. Similar to other 24-hour scenes, this one changes colors throughout the day to match your circadian rhythm, typically displaying bright, cooler shades during the day and softer, warmer lighting in the evening. You can find the Spring Breeze scenes in the Hue scene gallery, allowing you to choose one for just a single smart light or for an entire room.

    Icon Update

    An interesting point to mention is that the Philips Hue AI assistant icon, which was introduced in update 5.38.1, has shifted back to the original magnifying glass design. However, there doesn’t seem to be any alterations to the search capabilities. You can easily download the Philips Hue app version 5.39.0 from both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.

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  • Philips Hue Update Boosts Battery Life for Smart Home Devices

    Philips Hue Update Boosts Battery Life for Smart Home Devices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue released firmware update 1.2.32.976110 for Secure cameras in 2025, following a previous update in November 2024.
    2. The setup process in the Philips Hue app is now easier, with more accurate Wi-Fi router names and user-friendly PIR sensor cooldown settings.
    3. Short video clips are no longer uploaded, and the overall upload success rate has improved.
    4. Battery performance for the Secure Battery camera is enhanced, reducing unnecessary wake-ups and improving motion snooze settings.
    5. The automatic transition between day and night modes is now more accurate, and the update will be automatically pushed to compatible devices.


    Philips Hue has rolled out a new update for its Secure cameras. The firmware version 1.2.32.976110 marks the first update for these smart home devices in 2025. The previous update came in November 2024, which introduced several enhancements, including better motion detection, improved Bluetooth connectivity, and updates for clip uploads.

    Improved Setup Process

    The latest update for the Secure cameras, version 1.2.32.976110, has made the setup process in the Philips Hue app easier. As mentioned in the release notes, the Wi-Fi router names shown in the app are now more accurate. The cooldown settings for the Passive Infrared (PIR) sensor are reported to be more user-friendly. Additionally, short video clips are no longer uploaded, and the overall upload success rate has seen improvements.

    Battery Performance Enhancements

    Other changes affect battery-operated devices, such as the Secure Battery camera, which is currently priced at $109.99 on Amazon. This update enhances battery life by minimizing “unnecessary” wake-ups and fine-tuning motion snooze settings. Users should experience fewer issues with devices being unreachable or not entering sleep mode. Furthermore, the automatic transition between day and night modes is now more accurate.

    For those interested, the full change log can be found below. The Philips Hue Secure cameras update, version 1.2.32.976110, will be automatically pushed to compatible devices. Recently, the company also released an update for the Philips Hue app, hinting at a new feature for AI-generated lighting effects.

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  • Philips Hue App Update Introduces New AI Assistant Icon

    Philips Hue App Update Introduces New AI Assistant Icon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue is set to introduce a new AI helper in its app, as revealed by Signify.
    2. The AI assistant button has replaced the search icon in the app’s latest update (version 5.38.1).
    3. The AI feature will allow users to create custom smart lighting scenes using voice and text commands.
    4. The app update does not mention the AI assistant and focuses on a QR code scanning feature instead.
    5. The release date for the AI assistant is currently unknown, but it may be linked to the upcoming Hue Secure doorbell.


    Philips Hue seems to be getting ready to introduce a new AI helper in its application. This new feature was revealed by Signify, the firm that runs the smart home brand, back in January. Along with this, the company also discussed a sound detection feature for smoke alarms and additional ways to access live video from a Secure camera.

    Update Brings New Features

    The AI assistant button has shown up in the Philips Hue application after the latest update to version 5.38.1. Users have noticed an icon for the assistant at the lower right corner of the app’s Home page. This new icon has taken the place of the magnifying glass icon, which was used to search for various scenes, devices, and rooms. However, when users click on the new icon, they are still directed to the same search feature.

    Expected Capabilities

    When the AI assistant was initially revealed, Signify mentioned that it would let users create smart lighting scenes tailored to their preferences. It will support both voice and text commands, and there will be a feedback option to enhance the lighting effects generated. This AI assistant is likely to be akin to the Govee AI Lighting Bot, which can be found in products like the Curtain Lights 2 (currently priced from $89.99 at Amazon).

    App Changes and Future Updates

    The change log for the Philips Hue app version 5.38.1 does not reference the AI assistant; it is the same as version 5.38.0, which was released a few days earlier and introduced a new QR code scanning feature. It looks like this update was made to eliminate the leaked Hue Secure doorbell, which is anticipated to be released later this year. It remains uncertain when the new AI assistant will officially be available in the Philips Hue app.

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  • Philips Hue Secure Doorbell Features Revealed in App Update

    Philips Hue Secure Doorbell Features Revealed in App Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Philips Hue app update (version 5.38) introduced a new smart doorbell called the Philips Hue Secure.
    2. The app now features a QR code scanning option for easier device setup and enhancements for arranging Hue Bridges.
    3. The new doorbell category appears under “Add Device,” indicating the presence of the unannounced Secure doorbell.
    4. Setup instructions suggest the doorbell is likely wired, as indicated by an error notification about power connection.
    5. No official details on the launch date or pricing of the Hue Secure doorbell have been released, and it’s unclear if it will pair with a Hue Bridge.


    A recent update to the Philips Hue app has revealed information about a new doorbell called the Philips Hue Secure. This discovery came after previous speculations about the device, which included an illustration of this soon-to-be-released smart home gadget.

    App Update Features

    The Philips Hue app, now at version 5.38, was released a few days ago for both iOS and Android platforms. This version introduced several enhancements, like a fresh way to arrange Hue Bridges and improvements for users who utilize all-day scenes. Additionally, a new QR code scanning feature was added to simplify the addition of new devices into your smart home setup.

    New Product Category

    When users navigate to “Add Device” and select the “No QR code” option, they will find a new product category labeled “Doorbells.” Within this category, the unannounced “Secure doorbell” is listed. The setup instructions suggest that users should install the device physically, but no additional information is available. There is also an error notification that states, “your doorbell may not be connected to power,” implying that this device is likely to be wired instead of using batteries. The provided illustration depicts a straightforward two-tone style featuring a camera on top and a large round button, which seems to be encircled by LED lighting.

    Uncertain Launch Details

    Philips Hue has yet to make an official announcement regarding this new product. Therefore, the release date and pricing for the Hue Secure doorbell remain unknown. It’s also uncertain if the device will require pairing with a Hue Bridge, which currently retails for $42 on Amazon.

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  • Philips Hue App Update Introduces New QR Code Scanner Feature

    Philips Hue App Update Introduces New QR Code Scanner Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue app version 5.38.0 is now available for iOS and Android users.
    2. A new QR code scanning option has been added for easier device setup.
    3. Users can view all connected products by going to Settings > Devices.
    4. Enhanced customization allows users to rearrange Hue Bridges on the Home tab.
    5. All-day scenes added to a Bridge are automatically grouped together.


    The Philips Hue app has just released version 5.38.0 for both iOS and Android users. This marks the second update in March, following the earlier release of version 5.37.1 at the beginning of the month. The prior update introduced a new video recording feature and better organization for those who have multiple Hue Bridges (curr. $42 at Amazon).

    New Features for Easier Setup

    With version 5.38, a QR code scanning option has been added, which was hinted at by Philips Hue earlier this year. This new tool enables users to swiftly set up and add various devices to a designated room. Additionally, you can see all your connected products by navigating to Settings > Devices. To add a new device, just tap the plus (+) icon from the list.

    Customize Your Experience

    For users managing several Hue Bridges, there are enhanced customization possibilities. You can now change the arrangement of your Bridges on the Home tab by heading to Settings > Bridges and dragging them into your desired sequence. Keep in mind, though, that you must enable the setting that allows Bridge names to be utilized as headings in order to access this feature. Lastly, when you add All-day scenes from the scene gallery to your Bridge, these are automatically grouped together.

    You can get the Philips Hue app version 5.38.0 from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. In related news, the company has also launched the Datura smart ceiling panel lights in the US recently.

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  • Philips Hue Impress: Modern Outdoor Smart Lights Now in the US

    Philips Hue Impress: Modern Outdoor Smart Lights Now in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue Impress outdoor smart lights are now available in the US and Canada after being sold in Europe.
    2. The Impress series includes three products: an outdoor wall light, a wide outdoor wall light, and an outdoor pedestal light.
    3. All models feature dimmable LED bulbs that produce 1,180 lumens and can be controlled via the Philips Hue app.
    4. The Impress outdoor wall light is priced at $159.99/CA$169.99, the wide version at $179.99/CA$189.99, and the pedestal light at $189.99/CA$199.99.
    5. The lights are designed with a modern look and have a lifespan of about 25,000 hours, with the wall lights being hardwired and the pedestal light including a spike accessory for installation.


    The recent introduction of Philips Hue Impress outdoor smart lights has taken place in the US and Canada. These three products have already been on sale in Europe for a while, with Signify revealing their North American availability earlier this year. The Impress series is characterized as “modern and sleek” by the company.

    Impress Outdoor Wall Light

    The first item in the lineup is the Impress outdoor wall light (Hardwired), which is a low-voltage option compared to the original wall light that needs a Hue Outdoor Power Supply. This dimmable smart light produces both white and colored light with an output of 1,180 lumens at a temperature of 4,000K. The 8W LED bulbs are designed to last around 25,000 hours, and the light features a matte black finish. Similar to other products from this brand, it can be controlled remotely through the Philips Hue app. Its dimensions are 24 x 15.6 x 12.6 cm (9.4 x 6.1 x 5.0 inches) and it is available for $159.99/CA$169.99 (Amazon US).

    Impress Wide Outdoor Wall Light

    Following that is the Impress wide outdoor wall light (Hardwired). This model is almost the same as the standard Impress outdoor wall light (Hardwired); the main distinction is its size. The regular version measures 24 x 14.1 x 12 cm (9.4 x 5.6 x 4.7 inches), while the wide version is 24 x 19 x 11.7 cm (9.5 x 7.6 x 4.6 inches). The Impress wide outdoor wall light is priced at $179.99/CA$189.99 (Amazon US).

    Impress Outdoor Pedestal Light

    The final product in the collection is the Impress outdoor pedestal light, which is the most costly item at $189.99/CA$199.99 RRP (Amazon US). This is also a low-voltage light that shares the same LED bulbs, brightness level, and app-based controls as the other two models. It measures 40 x 10 x 10 cm (15.7 x 3.9 x 3.9 inches) and includes a 60 cm (24 inch) power cable. Additionally, it comes with a spike accessory to help secure it in your garden.

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  • Philips Hue Update: Video Recording and New Organization Tools

    Philips Hue Update: Video Recording and New Organization Tools

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Philips Hue app has been updated to version 5.37.1 for iOS and Android users.
    2. New organization tools allow users with multiple Hue Bridges to arrange the Home tab by Bridge.
    3. Users can manually capture video clips using the Philips Hue Secure camera from the live view.
    4. Customization options for Philips Hue smart light icons are now available for Bluetooth setup users.
    5. The update is available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.


    A fresh update for the Philips Hue app is now available for users on iOS and Android devices. The new version 5.37.1 marks the fifth upgrade this year, succeeding version 5.36.0, which introduced extra tools for organizing smart home scenes.

    New Organization Features

    In this newest update, Philips Hue has included an organization tool specifically for those who have multiple Hue Bridges (currently priced at $44 on Amazon). Now, the Home tab can be arranged by Bridge, with each unit’s name serving as a heading. To use this feature, simply tap the ellipses (…) icon, then select Edit Home tab and tap the Bridge names icon.

    Recording and Customization Options

    Philips Hue Secure camera users can now manually capture video clips. This feature is accessible from the camera’s live view through a new record icon. Additionally, the icon for each Philips Hue smart light can be customized. To change it, just tap the light card, go to the (…) icon, and select Light settings. It’s important to mention that this customization is available only for users with a Bluetooth setup. You can download the Philips Hue app version 5.37.1 from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

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