Philips Hue Unveils Innovative Bridge Pro with Motion-Sensing Tech

Philips Hue is set to launch its new Bridge Pro, marking the first major update to its smart lighting control system in a decade. This innovative bridge, which will feature motion-sensing capabilities, aims to enhance users’ smart home experiences by turning existing Hue lights into motion sensors. The announcement comes ahead of a press event scheduled for next month in Berlin, where more details are expected to be revealed.

The Bridge Pro promises significant upgrades, including increased speed and capacity. It can support up to 150 bulbs and 50 accessories, more than triple the capacity of the current model. According to a product page briefly available on Hue’s website, the Bridge Pro will also integrate “built-in MotionAware technology,” enabling it to automatically adjust lighting based on user movement throughout the home. This capability could eliminate the need for standalone motion sensors, creating a more seamless smart home environment.

In addition to the bridge, Philips Hue is preparing to introduce a new wired video doorbell and several new lighting products. The doorbell, which has been teased since March, will feature a design reminiscent of previous models while offering enhanced streaming capabilities, including 2K resolution, a notable upgrade from the 1080p standard seen in the company’s 2023 security cameras.

The anticipated Bridge Pro will also include advanced artificial intelligence features, likely connected to a new AI lighting assistant. Reports suggest that the upgraded bridge will come equipped with a faster processor and additional RAM, as well as Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to connect without plugging it directly into a router.

Notably, Hue lights will soon be compatible with the Sonos voice assistant, enabling users to control their lighting with voice commands. This integration will allow commands such as turning lights on or off, adjusting brightness, and changing colors, all processed locally for enhanced privacy.

Among the new products on the horizon is a more energy-efficient A19 light bulb, which uses 40 percent less energy and offers deeper dimming capabilities. This bulb will support Hue’s ChromaSync technology, allowing for more precise color matching across fixtures. Additionally, the company is expanding its product lineup with new outdoor lighting options, including a set of permanent outdoor lights similar to those offered by competitors like Govee and Nanoleaf.

The Festavia-branded outdoor lights, particularly the Globe String lights, are designed to enhance aesthetic appeal with customizable lighting gradients and effects, adding a decorative element to outdoor spaces.

As the smart lighting market continues to evolve, the introduction of the Bridge Pro with its motion-sensing technology stands out as a potential game-changer for Philips Hue. By enhancing its ecosystem and supporting more devices, Philips Hue is positioning itself for significant growth in the smart home sector.

The official unveiling of the new products at the IFA tech trade show in Berlin will provide further insights into their functionalities and pricing. This event is highly anticipated among technology enthusiasts and consumers looking to upgrade their smart home systems.