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Philips Hue app-controlled lighting family add three new members
The Philips Hue app-controlled lighting products were among the first "Internet of Things" products we covered here at TUAW, and the product line has become quite popular. Now the company has announced three new products in the Hue line, including a new lower-cost model. Hue Lux is that inexpensive model, a white-only version of the Hue bulb that can act as a smart LED bulb that can be dimmed from the Hue app or any of over 100 third-party applications. A starter kit with two bulbs and a bridge priced at US$99.95 will be available in the second half of 2014. Each additional bulb will be $39.95. In addition, Philips announced 3D-printed table and pendant luminaires that will be made to order. No price was listed for these works of art, which you can see in the following slideshow: Nice, aren't they? I'm seeing some new hanging app-happy light fixtures in my home in the near future. The final product is a new controller for the Hue line named Tap for those times when you don't want to dig your smartphone or tablet out to be able to control a light. According to Philips you can put your own color/intensity creations from the Hue app onto the four buttons of Hue Tap. The controller is unique in that it uses no batteries -- instead, it is powered from the kinetic energy imparted by your finger taps. For those who want to dip into the world of Philips Hue lighting without spending an arm and a leg, the Lux is a nice addition. And for interior designers, the 3D luminaires offer a stylish way to add app-controlled multi-color LED lighting to homes, hotels, restaurants and offices.
