The new Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus brings a brighter light to any space
The app-controllable Philips Hue Lightstrip is getting longer, brighter, and whiter.
Along with more than 16 million different color options, the new Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus now offers tunable white light, which is a great addition.
The strip, which can be place on any surface thanks to a self-adhesive backing, has also significantly turned up the brightness level. While the first-generation device provided 120 lumens, the new strip can pump out up to 1,600 lumens.
The strip can pump up out up to 1,600 lumens.
Finally, the new strip can be extended from the usual 2 meters to up 10 meters with the purchase of additional extension strips.
When it’s available in October, the new Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus will cost $89.95 for a 2-meter strip. You can purchase 1-meter extension strips for $29.95 each.
Just to note, you will need to have a compatible bridge to use the lightstrip. That is sold as part of other Hue starter kits.
A growing ecosystem
In late August, Philips also unveiled a wireless dimming switch that can be attached to the wall or function as a handheld wireless controller for your lighting. It can dim up to 10 white bulbs at once.
A kit, which includes the switch and one white Hue Lux bulb, will be available sometime this month for $39.95.
HomeKit bliss
And Philips announced earlier this summer that the Hue system will be compatible with Apple’s HomeKit sometime this year. All existing lights will be compatible. As you probably know, HomeKit allows users to control their smart home products with a simple Siri command.
Dutch site iCulture recently leaked information about the HomeKit-compatible bridge. Information that was posted for a short time at an online lightning store said the device will retail for 60 euros (around $66) and be available in December. But we’ll let you know if we hear any more official information.
Apple could also mention more about other HomeKit-enabled products at the special media event next week on Wednesday, Sept. 9. If you’re looking to see what HomeKit is all about, the iHome Smart Plug is available now for $39.99 from Amazon.com. I reviewed the device last month.
For other recent accessory news and reviews, see: Get to the point with the new Adonit Jot Dash stylus, Review: Grain Audio OEHP.1 Solid Wood Over-Ear Headphones, and Review: Bluelounge Kosta Charging Coaster for the Apple Watch.
