Philips Hue Goes After Wyze, Nest With New Line of Smart Cameras

31.08.2023 - 07:35 / pcmag.com / New

Philips Hue, a brand known for lighting products, is breaking into a new category with the launch of its first home security cameras.

The product line, which falls under a new Philips Hue Secure division, will compete in a crowded market dominated by players like Wyze and Google Nest. But it could be a compelling choice for those who already use Philips Hue's other products, such as smart lights and smart plugs.

The cameras integrate with these products, appearing in the same Philips Hue app under a new Security Center. If homeowners see an intruder in the feed, they can turn on lights remotely, sound alarms, and even call local authorities or a trusted contact. A new Philips Hue floodlight camera can illuminate any color, including red, to really spook them.

"As the world leader in smart lighting, we know that light plays a major role when it comes to security," says Jasper Vervoort, Business Leader Philips Hue at Signify. "By integrating our smart lighting system with cameras, contact sensors, and app features, we offer a unique security solution through light to help users secure their homes."

Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, the cameras feature a 1080p HD video feed with night vision. They come in both wired and battery-powered versions to make them easy to place in a variety of locations, using a simple stand or new camera mount with ground spike.

For security and privacy, end-to-end encryption ensures any video clips, snapshots, and live views remain private. Those with a Philips Hue account can also dub themselves the administrators of the home system, doling out individual permissions to other household members.

"Administrators can restrict members to control only the lighting, to control the lighting and arm/disarm the security system, or to have full control over the lights and security system," Philips Hue says. They can also create "blackout" zones in camera settings, which make certain areas of the video feed private to prevent sending notifications.

Philips Hue also debuted the new generation of Philips Hue Festavia string lights. Three new light effects, Prism, Glisten, and Opal, are available to select in the Philips Hue app.

"Besides creating a cozy indoor atmosphere for holidays and special occasions, any barbecue or backyard party can now be decorated with a gradient of colorful light," Philips Hue says.

Rounding out the full set of debuts: The new Philips Hue MR16 smart bulb, Perifo indoor track lighting, and Centris ceiling spotlight—all of which are also available and adjustable within the Philips Hue app.

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