One of the biggest problems with smart lights it’s the way they interact with traditional wall switches, which is exactly what Philips Hue hopes to fix with its new wall switch module.
Typically, the problem with connecting smart lights to a traditional wall switch is that if you use the switch to turn off smart lights instead of using an app or voice command, smart lights can no longer communicate with the rest of your devices. This means that your smart lights will be inaccessible until the next time you use the wall switch to turn them back on, which basically eliminates the whole purpose of smart lights.
To address this, Philips Hue created the new Wall Switch Module, which is a small connected device on your existing wall switch, allowing you to use the switch to turn the lights on and off while enabling Lamps and Hue lamps to maintain connection with your phone or a Philips Hue hub. So even if you turn them off using the button, your Hue smart lights will not lose functionality.
Available for $ 40 each or $ 70 for a pack of two, the obvious drawback of Hue’s wall switch module is that in addition to working only with Hue lights, the wall switch module is relatively expensive compared to a traditional wall switch, so instead of installing them throughout your home, Hue users may want to strategically install them only intraffic areas.
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AND in order to maintain a connection with the rest of your home network, the Hue Wall Switch Module is powered by a small disposable battery. Philips Hue says the battery that comes with the Wall Switch Module should last for about five years on a single charge, but when it finally dies, you’ll need to remove the front panel from the wall switch and tamper with the wiring again to replace it.
On the positive side, Philips Hue says that its Wall Switch Module should work with traditional switches and alternators, in addition to button switches. That said, if you want a more modular solution to control Hue lights, Philips Hue is also launching an updated Hue Dimmer switch featuring a new programmable Hue button that can be customized to connect a specific lighting scene or recipe.
The new Philips Hue Wall Switch module will be available in North America this summer for $ 40, with the updated Hue Dimmer Switch coming in early February 23 for $ 25.