Connected lighting pioneer Philips Hue is taking advantage of IFA 2024 to unveil its new range of connected solutions. Among the lighting innovations presented, the Ambilight Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box hub is now switching to 8K, the app has new features, and new ceiling lights are announced.
Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 8K
Long exclusive to Philips TVs, Ambilight technology offers unparalleled immersion thanks to an LED system behind the screen that illuminates the room with dynamic colors that sync with the picture. In 2022, Philips made this process available to all TVs, not just Philips models, with the Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box designed to work in tandem with LED strips like the Philips Play Gradient Lightstrip (65″).
Read: Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box review: how to enjoy Ambilight on any TV!
The new Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 8K is based on the same operating principle, but with the latest-generation video processor. It now complies with the HDMI 2.1 standard, ensuring perfect compatibility with UHD 8K streams at 60 fps and 4K at up to 120 fps. A real asset for gamers, who can now connect next-gen consoles such as the PS5 and Xbox Series, or a computer.
Read: Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box: for even more immersive video games
In addition to the LED strips installed on the back of the screen, the Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 8K can synchronize with a set of 10 Philips Hue lights distributed around the room. This means that Philips Hue Ambiance B22 bulbs can be placed in every strategic corner of the room to create an immersive lighting ambience that greatly enhances the viewing experience by adapting the lighting to the picture on the screen. Hues and intensity adjust in real time, creating a visual spectacle that is not only impressive, but also enveloping.
“People enjoy escaping the pressures of daily life through entertainment. We are excited to introduce the next-generation Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 8K, compatible with emerging gaming console features, marking a significant advancement in the market. Additionally, we are launching new lighting designs and functionalities, including the Philips Hue Secure features, allowing individuals to customize their homes even more. ” says Jasper Vervoort, Business Leader at Philips Hue.
New ceiling lights
Philips Hue is also taking advantage of IFA 2024 to present a series of new ceiling lights that promise to complete the aesthetic of any room. The Philips Hue Datura model adopts a main light complemented by a second light frame. Each light can be controlled individually. The Philips Hue Tento ceiling light is perfectly suited to small spaces, with its 30 or 40cm square format. Both models promise to deliver high-quality lighting that can be adjusted according to your needs.
An improved app
Recently updated (Philips Hue 5.23: what’s new in the app?), the Philips Hue app is once again packed with new features and improvements to deliver a more intuitive and secure user experience. New features include more flexible programming options and advanced security modes that allow users to simulate a presence at home while they are away. In addition, lighting modes can now be adjusted to reflect specific moods or particular needs, such as reading or relaxation. Four new lighting modes (Cosmos, Underwater, Enchant and Sunbeam) have been added to the current collection. Finally, Philips is anticipating the next update by announcing that it will bring multi-hub management for simultaneous control of several hubs in the home.
As we move into an era where the smart home becomes the norm, Philips Hue is firmly positioned at the forefront of making connected lighting more intuitive and comprehensive than ever. The new Philips Hue products presented at IFA 2024 will be available from autumn 2024. You’ll need to pay €349.99 for the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 8K and between €69 and €399 for the ceiling lights, depending on the model chosen.
