Philips launches a HomeKit-compatible Hue dimmer switch
Philips, the company behind the much-loved Hue lighting system (which will soon work alongside Apple’s HomeKit protocol), has launched a brand new accessory designed to help out the technophobes in your household: a physical dimmer switch that can be attached to your wall, or which can function as a handheld, wireless controller for your Hue lighting setup.
Called the Philips Hue Wireless Dimming Kit, the product will be sold alongside Hue Tap, another physical Hue-compatible switch. The Hue dimmer looks great, and can easily be connected to Philips’ range of Hue products (such as the regular Hue and the Hue Lux) using the Philips Hue bridge, as MacRumors explains.
Philips said:
Getting ambiance at home has never been so simple; just screw in your bulb and press the dimmer switch to create your own personal dimmable glow. You can use the dimmer switch as a normal wall switch, or take it from the base plate and use it as a remote control for optimal convenience as it can be easily placed anywhere you desire. Plus, you don’t have to get off the sofa to dim the lights anymore when watching your favorite TV show; you can even lower the lights from the warmth of your bed.
The Philips Hue Wireless Dimming Kit can control up to 10 white bulbs at once. Philips also promises “no flickering or buzzing” for the switch, MacRumors adds (this being a common problem with “old fashioned” dimmer switches).
Philips Hue Wireless Dimming Kit.
In terms of price, the dimming kit isn’t bad; it’ll cost $39.95 once available next month (beginning with North American stores). Dimmer-compatible Hue white bulbs retail for $19.95 apiece.
Philips Hue is indeed due to receive support for HomeKit this fall. Apple’s protocol allows users to integrate their home automation setup with its mobile OS, allowing for Siri control (along with other perks). We’ll keep you posted on this front.
