Philips Hue launches a long-awaited light switch module and more

Philips Hue launches a long-awaited light switch module and more

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Signify is introducing three new Philips Hue products today: a built-in Hue module for existing light switches, a new external light bar and a refined dimmer.

The Philips Hue wall switch module solves a long-standing problem for Hue smart lamp owners. That is, you install a so-called “smart” Hue lamp on a ceiling lamp or fixture and then marvel at its ability to control it from your phone until a roommate turns the wall switch and turn off the lamp power, making the expensive lamp useless. The new Wall Switch Module – powered by a battery with a lifespan of at least five years, according to Signify – puts intelligence inside the wall to make the switch smart. Unfortunately, the Switch Module does not make normal lights smart, it just controls Hue smart lights. The Hue Wall Switch Module will cost $ 39.95 / € 39.95 or $ 69.95 / € 69.95 for a double package when it launches in Europe in March, followed by North America in the summer.

Full details on the wall installation can be found at Hueblog if you’re interested in replacing your home’s light switches with Hue.

Some basic knowledge of installation and electricity is required.
Image: Philips Hue

Philips Hue Amarant is a $ 169.99 / € 149.99 light bar that can be installed outdoors to bathe the side of a house, hedge or fence with multicolored light. The amarante measures 79.5 cm (31 inches) in width and reaches a maximum of 1,400 lumens. Requires a Hue power supply, which can be purchased separately. Philips Hue Amarant is now available in Europe, but will not be released in North America until early March.

Two amarants in a single power supply.
Image: Philips Hue

Bathe an external wall with light.
Image: Philips Hue

Finally, there is an update for the Philips Hue dimmer magnetic switch with a removable wall plate that allows your family and guests to control Hue lighting without an app. Unlike the new built-in module, the dimmer is a fake wall switch that sticks to any wall with tape. At least in Europe, the new dimmer slightly reduces the list price of the original, according to Hueblog, maintaining all the same functionalities in a somewhat refined way. It is available from January 26 in Europe for € 19.99 before arriving in North America on February 23 for $ 24.99.

The magnetic dimmer can be connected to the wall plate or detached for use as a remote control.
Image: Philips Hue

January 14 update at 9:08 am Eastern time: Added details on the Wall Switch Module.

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