FabianI noticed this “negative” aspect particularly on Halloween night: in the dim light, many visitors did not press the bell button on the Philips Hue Secure Video Doorbell, but instead pressed the camera lens. This is, of course, more than inconvenient.
Now Philips Hue has responded, as Hueblog reader Marcel noted in our community. I was able to successfully confirm this on my Hue Secure Video Doorbell: the LED ring around the doorbell button now turns on automatically when the camera detects motion. This should make it much easier for visitors to find the doorbell button even in the dark.
Apparently, the feature was activated automatically. Either with the latest update of the Hue app to version 5.55.0 or with a possible firmware update of the video doorbell itself. I currently have software version 1.2.42.1193070 installed – but to be honest, I don’t know if it’s new at all.
I also couldn’t find any settings in the Hue app that offer any customization options, such as adjusting the color of the LED ring. Maybe something will change here in the future.
Hue Secure Video Doorbell
$199.99 / €199.99
Software update for all other Hue Secure cameras
An update for all other Hue Secure cameras has definitely been rolling out for a few days now. With software version 1.2.39.1104000, Philips Hue is once again addressing the battery life of the wireless cameras – will everything finally run smoothly now? In addition, the live view and clip recording have been improved for all camera devices.
My impressions of the Hue Secure Video Doorbell
I am still very satisfied with the first smart doorbell from Philips Hue. It works reliably and, above all, quickly. The light alarm is a practical feature and the digital door chimes can be configured individually. Now all that’s missing is support for Apple Home – which has already been promised. You can also see my impressions in the following video. You can use the English dubbing on YouTube.
This update sounds like a game changer especially for evening or low light situations. Having the LED ring light up automatically when motion is detected is such a thoughtful addition no more visitors accidentally pressing the camera lens instead of the button. I also appreciate that Philips Hue is addressing battery life and improving live view and clip recording for all their cameras. Can not wait to see if future updates allow customization of the LED ring color that would be a nice touch. Overall it seems like Hue is really fine-tuning their smart doorbell experience.
But anyone got inst. issues with this? Mine wont start and the little light above the button is constant white. Its on a 24V doorbell tranformer.
Any idea?