It’s time again for some updates from the world of Philips Hue. However, I can already tell you that it’s not going to be spectacular, as there are probably no new functions. An update for the Hue Bridge was released a week ago. The firmware version 1963089030 merely improves the performance and stability of the system.
Yesterday evening, Philips Hue released another update to its app – and simply failed to mention the biggest new feature in the update description. On the iPad and also on Android tablets, the room overview is now displayed with two columns again. But before we get to that, let’s take a look at what the app looked like before.
If you want your lights to light up rhythmically to music, you can do this directly in the Hue app. However, Hue Sync only supports Spotify, no other sources. If you prefer to listen to your music with Apple Music, the classic CD or another streaming service, then the Discotainment mode in iConnectHue (App Store link) could be something for you.
Just one week after the major update to version 5.8, with which Philips Hue has given the wall switch module, among other things, a major upgrade, the next update is already available for download in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The update to version 5.9 is a little smaller and mainly deals with the Hue Tap Dial Switch.
In recent months, Philips Hue has released a new update every two or three weeks at the latest. Since the update to version 5.6 in mid-December, however, things have become quieter. Instead, version 5.7 has now been skipped and the update to version 5.8 has been released straight away. Although the Hue app has not been completely overhauled over the holidays, we can still look forward to some new functions.
Last week, Philips Hue released a firmware update for the Hue Bridge, which should have automatically installed on your system by now. It revolves around the software version 1962097030. Among other things, it fixes the problem where some users were unable to connect to Apple Home via HomeKit. As we have now found out, HomeKit is much more stable than the new Matter.
The update of the Philips Hue app to version 5.6, which is expected before Christmas, is still a long way off. However, new firmware for the Hue Bridge has been released in the last few days. You may have already received version 1961135030. You can check this in the settings of the Hue app.
Just a fortnight ago, iConnectHue delivered an update that, among other things, provided initial rudimentary support for the Hue contact sensor. Now developer Stefan Göhler has already released the next update. His premium app iConnectHue is now available in version 5.2 for iPhone and iPad. If you use iConnectHue in combination with music, you can now enjoy an improved strobe light that offers more speed and dynamics.
As I announced last week, Philips Hue is introducing new functions for the Hue dimmer switch and the Hue Smart Button. After a few users have already been able to try out the new options, they are now being officially rolled out with the update to app version 5.5.0. The official update description from Philips Hue states: “You can now customize your dimmer switches and smart buttons with up to 10 different time slots, your choice of up to 10 scenes to cycle through, the Natural light scene, and more for even more control.
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.
Fabian