Philips Hue App Introduces AR Preview for Smart Lamps

Exciting New Features in the Latest Philips Hue App Update

The Philips Hue app has just rolled out update 5.27, introducing a host of new features that enhance the user experience for smart lighting enthusiasts. The highlight of this release includes an innovative augmented reality (AR) and interactive 3D modeling tool

Augmented Reality Preview

With the new AR feature, users can visualize how various Philips Hue products will look in their own spaces. Exclusively available on iPhone Pro and iPad Pro models equipped with a LiDAR sensor, users can explore a range of 12 different Hue products within their own environments. Some notable products featured in the AR tool include:

Hue Twilight sunrise lamp
Hue Dymera wall light
Hue Infuse ceiling light

This tool not only places 3D renditions of the products in your room but also demonstrates various lighting scenes, colors, and effects. While initial tests have revealed some minor glitches, such as floating lamps, the feature provides a valuable preview of how these lights can change the feel of a room depending on the time of day and lighting conditions.

New 'Do Not Disturb' Feature for Motion Sensors

Another significant addition to the Philips Hue app is the 'do not disturb' option for motion sensors. Initially an experimental feature from Hue Labs, it has now become a permanent fixture across all platforms. This feature allows users to customize their lighting settings by:

Enabling sensors to detect motion only when all lights are off.
Scheduling these settings for specific times during the day.

This is particularly useful for households where motion sensors are relied upon for nighttime activities, such as trips to the bathroom, ensuring that manually turned-on lights remain unaffected by sensor activity.

Enhanced Switch Programming Options

The update also empowers users with the ability to program Hue switches more flexibly. Users can:

Start or stop a timer to control light activation.
Utilize the 'Mimic Presence Automation' feature, which simulates the presence of occupants by turning lights on and off at varying intervals.

This development is especially beneficial for users who want to create the illusion that someone is home while they're away, further enhancing security.

Conclusion

The latest update to the Philips Hue app adds exciting new features that improve the functionality and effectiveness of smart home lighting. As the move towards more personalized home automation continues, this update allows for greater flexibility in managing lighting systems in a user-friendly manner.

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