Yep, the Philips Hue Iris does need a hub to really shine.
Specifically, you'll want the Philips Hue Bridge for all the advanced features. If you're thinking about using it with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit, the Hue Bridge is a must.
It helps everything in your smart home work together more smoothly, like voice control, fancy scheduling, and creating detailed routines. Just a heads-up, the Hue Bridge is sold separately, so that's something to factor in if you want all the bells and whistles.
Now, if you're okay with sticking to the basics, you can use the Philips Hue Iris with Bluetooth through the Hue app. This way, you won't need the bridge, but there are some trade-offs. You'll have a more limited range and fewer capabilities.
For example, you won't get the extensive smart home integration and robust control options that come with the bridge.
Our research shows many folks have had a great time using the Philips Hue Iris with Alexa and Google Assistant, especially when paired with the Hue Bridge.
It makes for a smooth and enhanced smart home setup, from simple voice commands to more complex automations. So, while the hub isn't absolutely necessary for basic control, it's definitely worth considering if you want to get the most out of your smart lighting.
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More Answers
If you're still curious about the Philips Hue Iris Lamp, here are some other answers you might find interesting:
Yep, the Philips Hue Iris works with both Alexa and Google Assistant.
The manufacturer says you can control the lamp with voice commands, so no need to mess around with the Hue app each time. Just keep in mind, if you want to use all the features like remote access and advanced settings, you'll need the Hue Bridge.
It's sold separately, but it helps you connect more smart devices and improves the overall experience.
The Philips Hue Iris can display an impressive range of colors—16 million, to be exact.
You can choose anything from vibrant blues and greens to warm reds and delicate pastels. This lets you set the perfect mood for any event, whether you're unwinding at home or hosting a fun gathering.
Plus, it's got various shades of white light. Pretty cool, right?
The Philips Hue Iris Smart Table Lamp mainly works through the Philips Hue app on your smartphone or via voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
There's no physical remote included. You can use Bluetooth with the Hue Bluetooth app or get even more features by integrating it with a Philips Hue Bridge, which lets you connect with various smart home setups.
While the app and voice control offer a lot of flexibility, some folks find it inconvenient if they prefer physical controls. Our research has shown that relying on a smartphone or voice assistant can be a downside for some people who want simpler controls.
If it's important for you to have a physical remote, you might want to check out other brands. Govee, for instance, has smart lighting options with remote controls and similar multi-color capabilities.
This could be a better fit if you want to avoid using an app altogether.
So, the Philips Hue Iris is great for app and voice control, but it might not be the best pick if you don't want to use a smartphone or other smart home devices.
Alternatives to Consider
If the Philips Hue Iris Lamp doesn't quite fit your needs, here are some other options to consider:
AiDot Linkind Matter Smart Light Bulb
The AiDot Linkind Matter Smart Light Bulb delivers a comprehensive smart lighting experience at a significantly lower cost, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers. With 16 million colors and a simple setup that doesn't require a hub, it meets various lighting needs effortlessly.
Laser Smart Lights
The POCOCO DJ Disco Stage Party Lights offer an affordable entry into smart lighting. These lights feature color changing and scheduling capabilities, and are significantly more budget-friendly compared to Philips Hue products.
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