Tag: Smart Lighting

April 18, 2025
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.
Source:
Link

Tags: Philips Hue, Smart Lighting, version 5.40.0
April 15, 2025
Nanoleaf Pegboard Desk Dock: Illuminate & Organize Your Gaming Setup
Key Takeaways
1. The Pegboard Desk Dock is a multifunctional gaming desk lamp with storage and charging capabilities.
2. It features a pegboard for easy access to gaming accessories and has 64 color zones with screen mirroring support.
3. The dock is PC-focused, utilizing Nanoleaf Desktop software for scene selection, but lacks smartphone accessibility.
4. RGB lighting is visible from all angles, and it includes modular hooks and three USB ports for improved cable management.
5. The Pegboard Desk Dock is a budget-friendly and compact solution, highlighting Nanoleaf’s commitment to organized setups.
Nanoleaf has made a move towards enhancing the functionality of its well-known smart lights. The Pegboard Desk Dock is a versatile gaming desk lamp that includes storage and charging features. One side of this light functions as a pegboard, making it simple to access items like headsets and controllers. The other side features 64 color zones and supports screen mirroring. Priced at $59.99, this product is currently available at the Nanoleaf store.
PC-Focused Features
Similar to the PC Screen Mirror Lightstrip, this new dock utilizes Nanoleaf Desktop software, which likely means it won’t be accessible via smartphones, making it more suited for PC users. With this program available for Windows and MacOS, users can select from various scenes, including patterns inspired by lava lamps. The dock can also display Nanoleaf features, such as Orchestrator. Although its functionality is somewhat limited without a Nanoleaf Premium subscription, purchasers will still enjoy clever music-reactive effects.
Enhanced Visibility and Cable Management
No matter how the Pegboard Desk Dock is positioned, its RGB lighting remains visible. The pegboard lights up accessories, while a backlight offers a soft glow to nearby walls. Customers will receive four modular hooks that can hold different peripherals. Additionally, the latest Nanoleaf lights focus on improving cable organization on desktops. Users can access three USB ports, with one USB-C port providing power delivery for charging purposes.
Organizing Solutions by Nanoleaf
This innovative dual-purpose product from Nanoleaf exemplifies the company’s efforts to create organized setups. Nanoleaf Blocks can be transformed into functional wall panel lights with the addition of pegboard squares. The company has also teamed up with Fantaqi to introduce the Expo Smart LED Display Cases. Nevertheless, the Pegboard Desk Dock stands out as the most budget-friendly choice and is compact enough to fit on a gaming desk.
Tags: Gaming Accessories, Nanoleaf Pegboard Desk Dock, Smart Lighting
April 10, 2025
Govee Outdoor Spotlights 2: New Brighter Smart Lights Available
Key Takeaways
1. Govee has launched the Outdoor Spotlights 2 in Europe, available in sets of two (H7093) or four (H7094).
2. The spotlights feature RGBWIC beads, capable of producing over 16 million colors and emitting up to 700 lumens of brightness.
3. Users can choose from 69 preset scene modes or create custom lighting scenes using the Govee Home app, which is also Matter compatible.
4. The lights have an aluminum design, are IP67 rated for dust and water resistance, and can operate in temperatures from -20 to 40 °C.
5. The 2-pack is priced at €99.99, with the 4-pack’s release and pricing still uncertain.
Govee has recently introduced the Outdoor Spotlights 2 in Europe. This smart lighting solution is available in sets of either two or four lights, identified by model numbers H7093 and H7094, respectively. These new LED fixtures are made to enhance your outdoor area with both dimmable white and colorful illumination.
Color Options and Brightness
The Outdoor Spotlights 2 feature RGBWIC beads that can produce over 16 million colors. Each unit is reported to emit up to 700 lumens of brightness, which is an improvement over the previous model that provided 600 lumens. Users can select from a broader array of preset scene modes, totaling 69, or they can utilize the DIY tool to craft personalized lighting scenes. The Govee Home app offers remote control options, and this updated model is Matter compatible, allowing it to work seamlessly with various smart home systems. Additionally, you can adjust the lighting using voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
Design and Durability
Constructed with an aluminum exterior, these lights can be mounted on walls or installed into the ground using the included stakes. They boast an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance and can function in temperatures ranging from -20 to 40 °C (~-4 to 104°F). Currently, the Govee Outdoor Spotlights 2 can be purchased at the brand’s official website or on Amazon. The 2-pack is available for €99.99; however, details regarding the 4-pack’s release and pricing are still uncertain. It remains to be seen if or when these smart lights will be introduced in other regions, such as the US.
Source:
Link

Tags: Govee Outdoor Spotlights 2, H7093, Smart Lighting
April 4, 2025
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.
Source:
Link
Tags: app update, Philips Hue, Smart Lighting
March 27, 2025
Philips Hue Calla Large Outdoor Pedestal Light Launches in USA
Key Takeaways
1. The Philips Hue Calla Large outdoor pedestal light is now available in the US, complementing the smaller Calla Outdoor bollard light.
2. It offers dimmable options for both white and colored lighting, with color temperature adjustable between 2,000 and 6,500K and an 8W LED light source lasting 25,000 hours.
3. Users can control the light through the Philips Hue app, but a Philips Hue Bridge is required for all features.
4. The light has an IP65 rating for water and dust resistance and features straightforward installation with a 24-inch power cable.
5. The Calla Large outdoor pedestal stands at 15.7 inches tall, compared to the 9.9-inch height of the Calla Outdoor bollard, and is priced at $169.99.
The Philips Hue Calla Large outdoor pedestal light has made its official debut in the US market. This model has been available in Europe, where it is referred to as the Calla Outdoor pedestal, and it complements the smaller Calla Outdoor bollard light.
Features and Specifications
The Calla Large outdoor pedestal, similar to the previous Calla Outdoor bollard, provides dimmable options for both white and colored lighting. Users can select from cool or warm white shades, adjusting the color temperature between 2,000 and 6,500K. The 8W LED light source is designed to last for 25,000 hours, offering a brightness of 590 lumens at 4,000K or 350 lumens at 2,700K.
Control and Installation
Controlling this outdoor light is a breeze with the Philips Hue app, where users can pick colors and lighting effects or even set timers. However, to unlock all features, a Philips Hue Bridge is necessary. With an IP65 rating, this light is both water and dust resistant, encased in aluminum. Moreover, the installation is said to be straightforward, and the power cable measures 24 inches (60 cm), which can be extended if needed.
Size Comparison and Pricing
The key distinction between the Calla Large outdoor pedestal and the Calla Outdoor bollard is their height; the larger version stands at 15.7 inches (roughly 39.9 cm), whereas the older model is 9.9 inches (about 25.1 cm) tall. Both share a width of 4.1 inches (approximately 10.4 cm). The Philips Hue Calla Large outdoor pedestal light is now available for purchase in the US through the brand’s online store or on Amazon for $169.99.
Source:
Link
Tags: outdoor pedestal light, Philips Hue Calla Large, Smart Lighting
March 20, 2025
Philips Hue Datura Ceiling Lights Launch in the US
Key Takeaways
1. The Philips Hue Datura Ceiling Lights have launched in the U.S. after their initial release in Europe in 2024.
2. The series includes four models: Round small, Round, Square, and Rectangle, all with a frameless design and multiple light sources.
3. Each model features dimmable white and colored lighting, with separate control for front and back light sources.
4. The Round small model is 15.12 inches wide with 3,000 lumens, while the larger Round model is 22.60 inches wide with 4,850 lumens.
5. Pricing starts at $299.99 for the Round small model and $399.99 for the larger models, available on the Philips Hue online store and Amazon.
The Philips Hue Datura Ceiling Lights have officially launched in the United States. Earlier this year, Signify revealed that these lights would be coming to North America after their initial release in Europe in 2024.
Variety of Models
The Datura Ceiling Light series features four different models: the Round small, the Round, the Square, and the Rectangle. Each model boasts a primary light source in the front, along with a secondary source in the back to create a softer, diffused glow across the ceiling. Both sources offer dimmable white and colored lighting, which can be controlled separately. All models sport a frameless design with a sleek white aluminum profile. Furthermore, the lights come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity and are compatible with the Hue Bridge, enabling remote control via the Philips Hue app.
Specifications and Brightness
The Datura Ceiling Light Round small measures 15.12 inches (approximately 38.40 cm) wide, generating a brightness of 3,000 lumens at a color temperature of 4,000K. The larger Round model has a width of 22.60 inches (about 57.40 cm) and emits a brighter output of 4,850 lumens. The Square and Rectangle models are sized at 23.62 x 23.62 inches (around 60.00 x 60.00 cm) and 47.24 x 11.81 inches (approximately 200.00 x 30.00 cm), respectively, both providing a brightness of 4,250 lumens at 4,000K.
Pricing and Availability
Currently, you can purchase the Philips Hue Datura Ceiling Light Round small for $299.99, while the Round, Square, and Rectangle versions are priced at $399.99. These lights can be found on the Philips Hue online store and also on Amazon.
Source:
Link
Tags: Ceiling Lights, Philips Hue Datura, Smart Lighting
March 7, 2025
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.
Source:
Link
Tags: Impress outdoor lights, Philips Hue, Smart Lighting
March 6, 2025
Govee Ceiling Light 1s: CSA-Certified with Matter Support
Key Takeaways
1. The Govee Ceiling Light 1s is certified by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), which oversees smart home standards.
2. It is part of a new series of smart lighting products, following the Ceiling Light Pro and Square Ceiling Light.
3. The light supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for remote access via the Govee Home app and is compatible with Matter for integration with various smart home systems.
4. Details about its size, unique lighting effects, release date, and pricing are currently unknown.
5. The CSA aims to enhance user experience in smart homes by ensuring devices work together seamlessly.
The Govee Ceiling Light 1s has been listed in the database of the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA). This organization oversees the development and implementation of smart home standards, which includes technologies like Zigbee and Matter.
New Series of Smart Lighting
The Govee Ceiling Light 1s is the newest product in a line of smart lighting panels that have received certification from the CSA. It comes after the Ceiling Light Pro and Square Ceiling Light, two other models that are still awaiting release. The information available about this product is quite limited. Govee mentions that the light is meant for installation on ceilings or walls and is capable of producing various colored lighting effects.
Connectivity Features
This new light supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, enabling remote access through a “mobile app,” likely the Govee Home app for both smartphones and smartwatches. Additionally, with Matter compatibility, you can connect this panel light to many different smart home systems. However, details regarding its size and unique lighting effects are not yet disclosed. Therefore, it remains unclear how the Govee Ceiling Light 1s will be different from the previous Govee Ceiling Light, which is currently priced at $69.99 on Amazon, aside from its Matter compatibility. The release date and pricing for the new model are still unknown.
Overview of CSA’s Role
The Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) plays a crucial role in maintaining smart home standards and helping devices work together seamlessly. As smart home technology continues to evolve, products like the Govee Ceiling Light 1s are expected to enhance user experience by providing more options for lighting and connectivity. As we wait for more information, the excitement around these new developments in smart lighting continues to grow.
Source:
Link
Tags: Govee Ceiling Light 1s, Matter compatibility, Smart Lighting
February 24, 2025
Govee 2S String Lights with AI Lighting Bot: New Features Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. Product Overview: The Govee String Lights 2S are new smart lights found online, featuring RGBWIC with 200 LED lamp beads and an expected lifespan of 20,000 hours.
2. Durability and Design: These lights are rated IP65 for dust and water resistance, suitable for indoor and outdoor use, and operate within a temperature range of -20 to 40°C (-4 to 104°F).
3. Connectivity and Smart Features: They offer Bluetooth connectivity and support for the Matter protocol, enabling control via the Govee Home app, voice commands, and integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
4. Dynamic Lighting Options: Users have access to over 130 dynamic lighting effects and smart mapping technology for customized lighting arrangements, along with assistance from an AI Lighting Bot.
5. Pricing and Availability: The Govee String Lights 2S are available for €74.99 at MediaMarkt Austria, which is lower than the original String Lights 2 price of €99.99; official announcement and wider availability are still pending.
The Govee String Lights 2S have shown up online recently. This new smart lighting item was found in the Connectivity Standards Alliance database and has been listed by the retailer MediaMarkt in Austria.
Limited Details Available
Since the Govee String Lights 2S has not been officially revealed yet, there are only a few specifications. The listing shows that these smart lights come with RGBWIC from 200 LED lamp beads and are expected to last around 20,000 hours. They can be used both indoors and outdoors, thanks to an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance. Their operating temperature ranges from -20 to 40°C (-4 to 104°F). The LEDs are attached to a green string, and they offer Bluetooth connectivity along with support for the Matter protocol, allowing remote controls through various apps or voice assistants, like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
Features and Functionality
In the Govee Home app, users can pick from more than 130 different dynamic lighting effects, plus they can utilize smart mapping technology to adjust their lighting according to where it is placed. Additionally, the AI Lighting Bot helps users create lighting tailored to their specific needs, provide support for voice commands and even a feedback loop to fine-tune the effects. However, it’s still not clear how this new model stands apart from the original Govee String Lights 2.
Pricing and Availability
Currently, you can purchase the Govee String Lights 2S, which is 20 m long, at MediaMarkt Austria for €74.99. In comparison, the String Lights 2, also 20 m, was introduced with a retail price of €99.99. It is still unknown when Govee will officially announce this new smart lighting product or if it will be made available in other countries like the US, where the original 66 ft (20 m) String Lights 2 can be found for $99.99 on Amazon.
Source:
Link

Tags: Govee String Lights 2S, MediaMarkt, Smart Lighting
January 25, 2025
Govee Gaming Light Bars Pro with Matter Support Debuts at CES
The Govee Gaming Light Bars Pro have recently come to attention. This yet-to-be-announced smart lighting device has appeared two times on the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) website. The CSA is a consortium of businesses that develop and uphold IoT standards, such as Matter, and validate relevant products.
Different Names, Same Product
In the first entry on the CSA certification site, it is listed as the Smart Gaming Light Bars Pro, while the second listing refers to it simply as the Gaming Light Bars Pro. According to information from these CSA listings, the Govee Gaming Light Bars Pro are meant for indoor environments and boast a “cool gaming style appearance.” Users will have the option to select from various colored lighting effects, with management available via the Govee Home app. Additionally, these light bars will support both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as compatibility with the Matter protocol. This allows for easy integration with numerous smart home platforms such as Apple Home, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings.
Awaiting More Information
Details on the product are still limited. Govee introduced the original Gaming Light Bars in 2022, consisting of two 16.7-inch (approximately 42.4 cm) RGB light bars, each equipped with 31 LED beads. Some features of this earlier model include over 60 pre-set lighting scenes, music-syncing capabilities, and support for Razer Synapse 3, providing a more engaging gaming atmosphere. It’s still uncertain when the Govee Smart Gaming Light Bars Pro will hit the market or what their price will be. For reference, the original Govee Gaming Light Bars are priced at $89.99.
Source:
Link
Tags: Govee Gaming Light Bars Pro, IoT standards, Smart Lighting