Philips Hue has unveiled its most significant upgrade in years, launching a new range of smart lighting products at the IFA 2025 in Berlin. The event, described by Signify executives as “the biggest launch event in Hue history,” introduced a variety of new products and features, including the much-anticipated Hue Bridge Pro, a budget-friendly Hue Essential range, and a partnership with Sonos.
The new lineup aims to expand Philips Hue’s reach beyond its traditional smart lighting offerings, incorporating advanced technology and innovative products that cater to a broader audience. The launch event confirmed many of the rumors circulating in recent weeks, yet it still managed to surprise with its scope and ambition.
Hue Bridge Pro: A New Era of Smart Lighting
At the heart of the new range is the Hue Bridge Pro, an all-black device that replaces the original white models. This third-generation bridge boasts five times the processing power and 15 times the memory of its predecessor, which was first launched in 2015. It supports up to 150 lights and 50 accessories, making it a powerhouse for smart home enthusiasts.
The Hue Bridge Pro also introduces Hue Motion Aware, a feature that transforms Hue bulbs into motion sensors. This allows the lights to detect movement and trigger scenes or security announcements, enhancing both convenience and security for users.
“The Hue Bridge Pro is a game-changer in the smart lighting industry, offering unprecedented power and functionality,” said a Signify spokesperson.
Affordable Smart Lighting with Hue Essential
One of the highlights of the launch is the new Hue Essential range, which brings Philips Hue into more affordable territory. While not the cheapest option on the market, it offers a more budget-friendly alternative to Hue’s traditional products. The range includes A19 bulbs, GU10 spots, and strip lights with both white and color options, starting at under $20.
This move is seen as a strategic attempt to compete with budget-friendly rivals like Govee and Linkind, while still maintaining the premium quality associated with the Hue brand. The Essential range is compatible with the existing Hue platform and supports Bluetooth out of the box, with additional features unlocked via a Bridge.
Innovative Lighting Solutions and New Partnerships
Philips Hue’s strip lighting category is also receiving a significant update. The new Hue OmniGlow strip features zero visible hotspots, thanks to CSP technology, creating a smooth, continuous glow. The Flux lineup offers a variety of options for both indoor and outdoor use, with sizes up to 10 meters.
The Festavia string lights, previously a seasonal product, are now available year-round. The new permanent version can be used on rooflines or facades, while the Festavia globe string lights are designed for patios and balconies.
A surprise announcement at the event was the partnership with Sonos, which will allow users to control their Hue lights using Sonos Voice Control. Initially, the capabilities will be limited to basic functions like turning lights on and off or adjusting brightness, but there are plans to expand these features in the future.
Enhanced Security Features and AI Integration
The Philips Hue Secure range is also expanding with the introduction of the Hue Secure video doorbell. This device features a wide-angle lens, two-way talk, and smart light triggers, providing enhanced security for homeowners. It pairs with the new Hue Smart Chime for in-home alerts.
The Secure camera line is being refreshed with new black and white versions and a desktop-stand option for flexible placement. Additionally, Hue’s generative AI assistant, teased earlier this year, is now live in most markets. It can suggest lighting scenes based on mood or occasion and will soon manage automations.
By the Numbers: The Hue Bridge Pro is priced at $89.99, while Essentials bulbs start from $19.99. The new OmniGlow strip reaches up to $349.99 for a 10-meter length.
Availability and Market Impact
The new products are set to launch in Europe, the UK, and North America this month, with the strip lights following in October and November, and the Essential strips arriving in December. The Hue Secure gear will be available in October.
As Philips Hue continues to innovate and expand its product lineup, the brand is poised to strengthen its position in the smart home market. With new partnerships and advanced technology, Philips Hue is not only enhancing its existing offerings but also paving the way for future developments in smart lighting and home security.
The launch of these new products marks a significant milestone for Philips Hue, as it seeks to meet the evolving needs of consumers and stay ahead of the competition in the rapidly growing smart home industry.
