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Exactly 20 years ago, the first Philips TV with integrated Ambilight was presented at IFA 2004. Since then, 35 million TVs have been sold and 80 percent of buyers do not want to do without the backlight on their next TV. I feel the same way, so today I would like to take a look back and ahead.
Anyone who has more than one bridge in their home knows the problem. Controlling the lighting in the Hue app is simply no fun, especially if you always have to switch back and forth between two or more bridges. The first multi-bridge support will be released this year, which is currently still in beta testing.
There have been many rumours, but now the time has finally come: the Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 8K has been officially unveiled. There are some improvements, but no big surprises – except perhaps the price, which is even higher at $349.99. For comparison: the ‘previous’ Sync Box without HDMI 2.1 is still being sold for $269.99.
My colleague Frederick and many other Hue users in Europe have had it hanging above their dining table for several years now. We’re talking about the Philips Hue Ensis, because the pendant light is perfect for this task. The Ensis is now also available in North America. At $479.99, the price is not necessarily low, but it’s worth it.
This summer, Philips Hue launched two new ceiling lights on the market. The first is the premium model, the Philips Hue Datura, with two separately controllable light sources. The round ceiling light is currently available in two sizes. This was followed shortly afterwards by the Philips Hue Tento in various round versions, where the manufacturer’s focus is on the comparatively low price.
I already mentioned that Philips Hue will be focusing heavily on software development this autumn. This will probably include the introduction of four new effects that will allow your smart lamps to light up even more dynamically. Unfortunately, I can’t tell you exactly when the four new effects will be introduced.
Even after the Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 8K appeared at an Italian retailer in July, there were still doubts in some parts of the community that the second generation would be available soon. After all, the first ‘leaks’ appeared well over a year ago, some of which were mistaken for a Photoshop fake.
The Philips Hue software team really can’t be accused of being idle this year. After numerous app updates, there is now a new firmware for the Hue Secure cameras with numerous improvements and bug fixes. One new feature sounds very promising, but I haven’t been able to try it out myself yet.
The Hue Secure products have been on the market for almost a year now. There have not yet been any official offers, but this is now changing. For the first time, the Hue Secure cameras are available at a lower price in the Philips Hue online shop – and an additional gift makes it particularly attractive.
At the end of July, I already provided you with some details about the Philips Hue Tento. In the meantime, I have been able to gather my own impressions of the upcoming ceiling light from Philips Hue. The new model aims to score points above all with its comparatively low price.
Fabian