FabianThere’s yet another new update for the official Philips Hue app. Version 5.71 has been available for download in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store since yesterday evening. This update brings improvements not only for the Hue Secure camera but also for the MotionAware feature. But let’s take it one step at a time.
With this update, Philips Hue makes it easier to reconnect a Hue Secure camera or video doorbell to your Wi-Fi network. Unfortunately, I can’t tell you exactly how this was technically implemented—right now, I’m only using the doorbell, and it works absolutely reliably.
The other improvements in version 5.71 revolve around the MotionAware feature, which remains exclusive to the Hue Bridge Pro. As you surely know, this feature allows you to network multiple lights in a room to enable motion detection.
“It’s now easier to find and select the right lights from anywhere on your bridge while following recommended setup guidelines,” states the update description regarding the setup of a MotionAware zone. “You can also continue using the same room or zone for new areas as long as they contain enough unused compatible devices.”
Will MotionAware also be coming to the standard Hue Bridge?
You can read all about MotionAware on the Hue Bridge Pro in my short guide. The limit of a maximum of four motion zones hasn’t changed since launch.
There could be some interesting developments in the coming months. I’ve heard rumors that MotionAware will also be coming to the old Hue Bridge in a limited form. Instead of four motion zones, there might be a limit of one or two MotionAware zones. If there’s any truth to the rumors, we should find out more by early September at the latest.
