Philips (NYSE: PHG) presented on Monday Philips Hue white ambiance, a lighting system that changes light conditions depending on the moment. In the morning, it gently brightens to create a natural wake-up-feeling. During the night, it gradually dims to help people sleep better. Moreover, it can be configured through a smartphone app or voice recognition system.
The bulb offers a wide range of light spectrum that goes from cool daylight (6500K) to warm white light (2200K). It seems interesting that the app offers pre-set configurations called “Routines, for obtaining relaxing or energizing light atmospheres. It can be also configured through the Phillips Hue dimmer switch that comes with the starter kit, said the Dutch company in a press release published Monday.
“Light impacts us both physically and emotionally, we experience this every day when waking up and going to sleep,” says Chris Worp, Leader of Philips home lighting business, in a press release. “We want to give people control of the impact that white light has on their well-being at home”.
Phillips is interested in enhancing daily routines of its clients. Mr. Worp said that people can select the perfect light they need depending on the time of the day. For instance, the “energizing light” mode can be selected for working out, the “wake up” Routine increases brightness gradually, and the “Nightlight” recipe delivers a low level of light at the same time it minimizes exposure to blue light in order to help people to sleep better.
Hue White ambiance is also useful for people who want to create light effects in their homes. Since connected lights can be combined to divide spaces. For instance, someone can select a white light effect for the kitchen, and a warm light effect for the living room area.
“Hey Siri, please activate the ‘nightlight’ Routine on my light bulb”
Phillips white ambiance starter kit comes with two Philips Hue white ambiance bulbs (800 lumens at 4000K), which are supported by Apple HomeKit and the Philips Hue dimmer switch. Users can control their lighting system on the Philips Hue app, or by using Siri voice control or an Apple Watch.
Hue lights also work with Nest Cam, Nest Protect and voice recognition technologies such as the Amazon Alexa, that comes with the Amazon Echo speakers. Moreover, Philips Hue is supported by more than 600 third party apps, such as SleepCycle, which wakes people up at the perfect moment, at the same time it activates the “Wake up” Routine.
White ambiance lamps will be available from spring 2016, and integrated luminaires will come in fall 2016 to Europe and North America. Pricing has not been confirmed yet. Currently, a Philips Hue White bulb without adaptive lighting technology costs $15.
Source: Philips Press Release