Philips Hue’s major product wave arrived at IFA Berlin on September 4, 2025—not in August 2026. The lineup introduced the Bridge Pro hub, smoother OmniGlow light strips, lower-cost Essential bulbs and strips, and Hue Secure hardware including a wired video doorbell and chime.
The key question now is not whether Hue launched new products, but which ones are worth buying. Bridge Pro is aimed at large, advanced installations; OmniGlow is a premium choice for visible strip lighting; Essential lowers the entry price; and the Secure doorbell adds lighting integration at the cost of wired installation and optional cloud subscriptions.
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At a glance
| Product | What it does | Current U.S. price* | Best for | Main catch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bridge Pro | Higher-capacity Hue hub with MotionAware | $139.99 | Large or complex Hue systems | Overkill for small installations |
| Standard Bridge | Existing Hue hub | $69.99 | Small and medium systems | Supports fewer devices and scenes |
| OmniGlow | High-output, smoother light strip | $139.99 | Visible strip installations | Premium price; specifications vary by listing |
| Essential bulbs and strips | Lower-cost Hue lighting | Varies | Budget-conscious buyers | Lower brightness and dimming performance than premium models |
| Wired video doorbell | 2K Hue Secure doorbell | $169.99 | Hue owners adding security | Requires compatible wired power |
*Prices are from the U.S. Philips Hue store, checked August 18, 2026. Promotions, stock and regional pricing can change.
What Philips Hue launched
The 2025 product wave covered several families rather than one single device. It included:
#1 Best Overall
- SWITCH TO SMART LIGHTING: Simply screw in your new smart bulb, download the award-winning Hue app, then start controlling and customizing your smart light remotely
- CREATE AMBIANCE WITH COLOR: Find the right light with the LED lights for any mood with millions of colors and a packed library of preset light scenes designed by Hue’s lighting experts
- SMOOTH DIMMING: Easily dim your smart light bulbs from full brightness all the way down to 2% using the Hue app to achieve the right level of lighting for whatever you’re doing
- CONTROL USING YOUR VOICE: Connect to your home assistant, and you’ll be able to control your LED light bulbs remotely using voice commands—compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Home.
- EXPAND YOUR SETUP: Add a Hue Bridge and other Hue products to unlock more features, including home security and content syncing with music, movies, and video games
- Bridge Pro smart hub.
- Essential A19/E26 bulbs, regionally available GU10 bulbs, and Essential strip and Flex strip lights.
- OmniGlow, Flux indoor and outdoor strips, and a Neon outdoor strip.
- Updated A19 and E27 White Ambiance and White and Color Ambiance bulbs.
- Hue Secure wired video doorbell, smart chime, wired camera and related security products.
- Sonos voice-control integration and new Hue Secure software features.
Launch coverage described the release as more than 10 devices, but the products are best understood as a broad range refresh rather than a single numbered hardware package. Product availability and fittings vary by country, so U.S. E26 models and prices should not be assumed for the UK, Europe or Australia.
Bridge Pro: a hub upgrade for serious Hue systems
The Bridge Pro is not a new lighting protocol, and existing Hue owners do not automatically need to replace a standard Bridge. Its value is capacity, placement flexibility and advanced features.
| Bridge Pro | Standard Bridge | |
|---|---|---|
| Lights | 150+ | 50 |
| Accessories | 50+ | 12 |
| Scenes | Up to 500 | Lower capacity |
| Network connection | Wi-Fi or Ethernet | Ethernet |
| MotionAware | Yes | No |
Philips lists support for Apple Home, Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, Matter, Sonos and IFTTT integrations through the Hue ecosystem. The Pro also supports Hue Sync and Hue security integration, while retaining compatibility with existing Hue products subject to the relevant product and firmware requirements.
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MotionAware explained
MotionAware uses changes in the Zigbee mesh network to infer movement. Compatible Hue lights can therefore contribute to motion detection without a separate sensor in every room. Philips says up to 95% of existing Hue products are compatible, but compatibility is not universal and should be checked against the current product documentation.
In practical terms, MotionAware can switch lights on, trigger security lighting, send movement notifications or start presence-mimicking routines. It is not the same as turning every bulb into an independently positioned passive-infrared sensor. Results depend on light placement, the number of compatible lights, room geometry, walls, furniture, network conditions and software support. Multiple lights in a room may provide more useful coverage than a single bulb.
Rank #2
- SWITCH TO SMART LIGHTING: Enjoy smart lighting instantly: screw in your bulb, download the Hue app, and control your light remotely.
- CREATE AMBIANCE WITH COLOR: Find the right light for any mood with millions of colors and a packed library of preset light scenes designed by Hue’s lighting experts.
- SMOOTH DIMMING: Easily dim your lights from full brightness all the way down to 2% using the Hue app to achieve the right level of lighting for whatever you’re doing.
- CONTROL USING YOUR VOICE: Connect to your home assistant and you’ll be able to control your lights remotely using voice commands—compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Home.
- EXPAND YOUR SETUP: Add a Hue Bridge and other Hue products to unlock more features, including home security and content syncing with music, movies, and video games.
MotionAware should supplement—not automatically replace—a dedicated motion sensor, contact sensor or camera where dependable security detection matters.
Wi-Fi or Ethernet?
Bridge Pro can connect to the router by Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Philips recommends Ethernet for optimal stability, but Wi-Fi can make central placement easier when the router is inconveniently located. A wireless Bridge Pro still depends on reliable wireless coverage, power and router availability.
This does not turn Hue into a Wi-Fi-bulb system. Hue lighting continues to use its Zigbee mesh, while Wi-Fi or Ethernet is the connection between the Bridge Pro and the home network.
Should existing owners migrate?
Philips supports migration from a standard V2 Bridge to Bridge Pro, including devices, rooms, zones and settings. Before starting, update the Hue app, document important automations and integrations, and keep the old setup available until the new one is working.
Do not assume every third-party integration, automation or security setting will transfer perfectly. Consolidating multiple Bridges into one Pro has been version-dependent, so check Philips’ current migration instructions before attempting it. A system below the standard Bridge’s 50-light and 12-accessory limits usually has little reason to upgrade unless MotionAware, security integration or Wi-Fi placement is important.
Rank #3
- SWITCH TO SMART LIGHTING: Enjoy smart lighting instantly: screw in your bulb, download the Hue app, and control your light remotely.
- CREATE AMBIANCE WITH COLOR: Find the right light for any mood with millions of colors and a packed library of preset light scenes designed by Hue’s lighting experts.
- SMOOTH DIMMING: Easily dim your lights from full brightness all the way down to 2% using the Hue app to achieve the right level of lighting for whatever you’re doing.
- CONTROL USING YOUR VOICE: Connect to your home assistant and you’ll be able to control your lights remotely using voice commands—compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Home.
- EXPAND YOUR SETUP: Add a Hue Bridge and other Hue products to unlock more features, including home security and content syncing with music, movies, and video games.
OmniGlow: the premium strip-light story
OmniGlow is designed to make strip lighting look more continuous by reducing visible LED hot spots. That matters most when the strip is directly visible, installed in a shallow channel, or used where reflected light reveals individual emitters.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchThe current U.S. Philips Hue listing shows a 10-foot strip with 2,700 lumens, direct and indirect lighting, and “ultra-bright, true white” output for $139.99. Launch coverage described a maximum of up to 900 lumens per meter, dimming to 0.5%, and smaller LEDs intended to reduce spotting. Those figures should not be silently treated as identical: lumen measurements can vary by model, length, region or specification method.
OmniGlow is most compelling when the strip itself will be seen and smooth illumination matters. If it will be hidden behind cabinets or furniture, the visual benefit may be difficult to notice. A conventional strip paired with an aluminium diffuser can also be a better-value solution, particularly for long runs or installations where lowest cost per foot matters.
Check the product page for the exact length, cut points, extensions, bending limits, indoor/outdoor rating and Bridge requirements before designing an installation. Do not assume the 10-foot U.S. model can be extended or used outdoors simply because other Hue strip families offer different configurations.
Essential bulbs and strips: a cheaper route into Hue
The Essential range is Hue’s affordability play. Launch coverage positioned the bulbs and strips below the traditional Hue range, with somewhat lower brightness and a less extensive dimming range while retaining access to the broader Hue system.
Rank #4
- WARM WHITE LIGHT: Light up your home and create a warm, welcoming feel with soft white light (2700K) ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, and spaces to relax
- LOW DIMMING: Dim your LED light bulb smoothly from full brightness down to 5% to achieve the right lighting for whatever you’re doing, whether watching a movie or unwinding before bed
- SMART CONTROLS: Control your LED light remotely using the award-winning Hue app or add a Bridge to control using your preferred home assistant—compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Home
- EASY TO USE: Simply screw in your new smart LED bulb, download the award-winning Hue app, and start enjoying all the benefits of smart lighting—it's as easy as that
- BUILT TO LAST: These Hue LED bulbs are designed to last, with an average lifespan of 25,000 hours
Essential products can be controlled over Bluetooth for a small, single-room installation. A Bridge is the better choice for multiple rooms, schedules, remote control, sensors, switches, scenes, automations and third-party integrations.
Compare the specifications rather than relying on the Hue name alone. Check lumens, colour-temperature range, colour performance, dimming range, fitting, wattage and included accessories. Essential is less attractive for rooms needing maximum brightness, premium low-level dimming or the strongest colour performance.
Reported launch prices in September 2025 included A19 bulbs from $24.99, strip lights from $59.99 and Flex strip lights from $99.99; UK GU10 bulbs were reported from £19.99. These are historical launch prices, not guarantees of current retail pricing.
Hue Secure doorbell and chime
The Hue Secure wired video doorbell offers 2K video, two-way audio, day and night vision, motion-triggered lighting and integration with Hue lights. A plug-in chime is available separately or in a bundle.
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The current U.S. Philips Hue listing specifies 12–24V AC power and a minimum 10VA transformer. The transformer is not included with the current U.S. doorbell listing. This is a wired installation, not a battery-powered drop-in replacement: verify the existing doorbell wiring and transformer capacity before ordering.
Best Value
- WHAT’S IN THE BOX - Includes three White and Color Ambiance smart 60W-equivalent A19 color-changing light bulb; Perfect for general lighting anywhere in your home
- UNLOCK THE FULL POWER OF HUE - Add a Hue Bridge to enjoy automations, control from anywhere in the world, and a secure, stable connection that won’t drain your Wi-Fi. Use Matter to connect your smart home devices to your Hue smart lighting system.
- MILLIONS OF COLORS - The White & Color Ambiance range offers both warm-to-cool white and millions of colors straight out of the box. Simply screw it in! Once in your fixture, our smart LED bulbs can dim, brighten, and set the mood instantly.
- ENJOY PRESET SCENES - Light your routines throughout the day; Set a 24-hour natural light scene that mimics the sun or choose light to help you focus, unwind, and more
- VOICE CONTROL - Convenient smart control; Set up voice control in the Hue app and use simple voice commands to control your lights with Alexa or Google Assistant
- Wired video doorbell: $169.99.
- Doorbell and chime bundle: $199.99.
Hue’s advantage is the connection between security events and lighting—for example, using lights when movement is detected. Ring, Google Nest, Arlo and Eufy may be stronger fits for buyers prioritising a mature security ecosystem, broader accessory support, local storage or a particular smart-home platform. Compare recording policies, subscriptions, storage location and installation requirements, not just video resolution.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Hue Secure subscriptions
The doorbell’s purchase price is only part of its long-term cost. Philips currently advertises three U.S. Hue Secure plans:
| Plan | Price | Video history | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free | $0/year | 24 hours | Core features |
| Basic | $39.99 per camera/year | 30 days | One camera per plan |
| Plus | $99.99/year | 60 days | Up to 10 cameras |
Features listed by Philips include live streaming, instant motion notifications, light and sound alarms, end-to-end encryption, blackout zones, snapshots, auto arm/disarm and video history. Paid tiers add features such as video clips, activity zones, package zones, AI detection and smarter alerts.
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute“No subscription” means core features and 24-hour history on the free tier—not unlimited or long-term recording. Basic is priced per camera, while Plus can cover up to 10 cameras. Prices and feature availability may vary by country and app version.
What Matter changes—and what it does not
Matter support is provided through the Hue Bridge rather than turning every Hue product into a standalone Matter-over-Wi-Fi device. Matter can improve interoperability with supported platforms, but it does not remove the value of the Hue Bridge for Hue-specific scenes, advanced automations, entertainment syncing, security features or the Zigbee lighting mesh.
Feature parity is not guaranteed. The controls exposed through Matter depend on the platform, firmware, device type and integration.
Which product should you buy?
Choose Bridge Pro if:
- Your installation is approaching or exceeds the standard Bridge’s 50-light or 12-accessory limits.
- You operate a large multi-room system or want up to 500 scenes.
- MotionAware is a meaningful reason to upgrade.
- You want Hue lighting and Hue Secure products to work together.
- Wi-Fi placement is useful and your wireless network is reliable.
Keep the standard Bridge if:
- Your system is small or medium-sized.
- You need ordinary scenes, remote access, voice control and automations but not MotionAware.
- You would rather spend the $70 price difference on bulbs, switches or sensors.
Choose OmniGlow if:
- The strip will be visible and LED spotting would bother you.
- You want strong white-light output and Hue scenes or synchronisation.
- You value a polished installation more than the lowest cost per foot.
Choose Essential if:
- You want a lower-cost entry into Hue.
- You are starting with a few bulbs and may expand later.
- Maximum brightness and premium dimming are not priorities.
Choose Hue Secure if:
- You already have compatible wired doorbell power.
- Lighting reactions are valuable alongside video monitoring.
- You are comfortable with 24-hour free history or the ongoing cost of a paid plan.
Installation and buying checklist
- Confirm the region and fitting. Check E26, E27, GU10 or another required socket before ordering.
- Count your system. Include bulbs, fixtures, switches, sensors and other accessories—not just lights.
- Decide whether Bluetooth is enough. Use a Bridge for multi-room control, schedules, remote access, scenes, sensors and integrations.
- Choose Bridge placement. Prefer Ethernet for stability; use Wi-Fi only where coverage is dependable.
- Check MotionAware compatibility. Do not assume every Hue light supports it.
- Plan strip installation. Verify length, cut points, extensions, bending limits, diffuser needs and indoor/outdoor rating.
- Verify doorbell power. Confirm 12–24V AC and at least 10VA at the transformer; the transformer may need to be purchased separately.
- Budget for recording. Decide whether 24-hour history is sufficient and compare Basic versus Plus for multiple cameras.
- Prepare for migration. Back up or document scenes and integrations before moving from a standard Bridge.
- Check app requirements. Philips lists Android 12+ or iOS 17+ for Bridge Pro.
Bottom line
Philips Hue’s 2025 launch is now a product lineup rather than breaking news. Bridge Pro is a worthwhile upgrade for large or security-focused Hue installations, but the standard Bridge remains the better value for most smaller homes. OmniGlow earns its premium when the strip is visible and smooth illumination matters; Essential is the sensible budget entry point. The Secure doorbell is attractive for Hue owners who want lighting and video in one ecosystem, but wired power and recurring recording costs make it a more considered purchase than its $169.99 hardware price suggests.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
