Philips Hue is set to revolutionize the way smart lighting is managed with the upcoming activation of a multi-bridge sync feature in its mobile app. Announced during the IFA 2024 technology trade fair in Berlin, this new capability will allow users to control large lighting installations seamlessly, making it easier to manage setups with over 50 light sources.

The multi-bridge sync feature will enable users to operate multiple ZigBee gateways as a single installation within the Hue app. This significant enhancement means that users will no longer need to switch between different bridges to control their lighting, streamlining the user experience for those with expansive smart lighting setups.

In addition to the multi-bridge sync announcement, Philips Hue also unveiled a new version of its popular Hue Play HDMI Sync Box. The updated version is designed to work with 8K televisions, capable of translating image content into control commands for connected lights. While 8K televisions are not yet commonplace, the new sync box is particularly beneficial for gamers, as it can handle 4K signals at a refresh rate of 120 Hz without any latency, thanks to HDMI 2.1 support.

This upgraded HDMI Sync Box supports advanced image processing technologies like Dolby Vision and HDR10+, providing an immersive experience for users. Priced at 350 euros, it is significantly more expensive than its predecessor, which was released in 2019 and sold for about 250 euros.

The multi-bridge sync feature will be available as a free update to the Philips Hue smartphone app. Currently, users can manage multiple Hue Bridges within a single app instance, but they must switch between them using a button. This limitation can be cumbersome for users with large installations that exceed the 50-device limit of a single bridge.

With the forthcoming app update, all installed devices will be accessible within a single window view, eliminating the need for constant switching between gateways. This improvement is aimed at enhancing user convenience and making it easier to manage extensive lighting setups.

Philips Hue continues to innovate in the smart lighting space, providing users with advanced solutions that cater to their growing needs. The introduction of multi-bridge sync and the upgraded HDMI Sync Box reflects the brand’s commitment to enhancing the smart home experience.

As the demand for smart home technology continues to rise, Philips Hue is positioning itself as a leader in the market. The ability to manage multiple lighting installations efficiently and the introduction of high-performance products like the HDMI Sync Box are expected to attract both new and existing customers.

With the IFA 2024 showcasing these advancements, Philips Hue is set to make a significant impact on the smart lighting industry as it prepares to roll out these exciting new features later this year.