When it comes to configuring accessories for Philips Hue, I have sworn by iConnectHue for years. The application for iPhone and iPad gives you far more options than the official Philips Hue app. With the update to version 5.1, developer Stefan Göhler once again delivers new functions – with the Philips Hue Secure contact sensor taking centre stage.
A lot has happened around Philips Hue in recent weeks – and it's not getting boring. The Philips Hue Secure Contact Sensor released in September has now received a firmware update that adds a function that many Apple users have been missing. The latest update adds support for HomeKit to the Hue Secure Contact Sensor.
At the beginning of September, Philips Hue introduced the new Hue Secure Contact Sensor, which can now be ordered in the manufacturer's online shop. For 39.99 euros you get a sensor in white or black, in a double pack you pay 69.99 euros. How to connect the contact sensor to the Hue Bridge The contact sensor is ready for use immediately after unpacking.
I have another surprising piece of information for you, at least I would not have expected it today. In some countries the new Philips Hue Secure Contact Sensor is already listed in the Hue online shop and can be ordered there. Unfortunately, I don't have complete information on which countries the sensor is available in.
Hue Secure was officially integrated into the Hue app this week, but apart from integrating existing motion sensors, there's not much you can do with Philips Hue's new security system yet. Cameras and contact sensors are only “coming soon”, the official statement still reads “in autumn”. However, I couldn't just sit around idly either, so I tried my luck with two ZigBee contact sensors.
Philips Hue is expanding its accessories portfolio and now also offers contact sensors in addition to the security cameras as part of the newly launched Hue Secure system. However, these can also be used completely independently of the cameras, just like a Hue motion sensor, for example. The Philips Hue Secure contact sensor measures 7 x 2.2 x 2 centimetres and can detect when a door or window is opened or closed thanks to a small magnet.
This week Philips Hue will present its new surveillance system called “Hue Secure”. In the past few weeks, a lot of information has already leaked out. I would like to provide you with the most important details shortly before the official presentation and also give you some assessments. Four cameras – but one will come later At the launch, Philips Hue will introduce four cameras.
Fabian