Philips Hue offers two cheaper solutions for TV-synced ambient lighting
Philips Hue has introduced a new Sync Box 4K priced at $150, significantly cheaper than the existing 8K model, and a camera-based Play Screen Sync for $119.99. Both devices allow Hue lights to react to on-screen content, with the Sync Box using HDMI and the camera working with any display. They are available now.
The Sync Box 4K represents a significant price drop from the 8K model, though it sacrifices features to reach that price point. It offers a single HDMI input, HDMI 2.0 connectivity, and 4K resolution at 60Hz, whereas the pricier version supports four inputs and HDMI 2.1. The camera-based Play Screen Sync uses a fisheye lens mounted atop the display, with automatic calibration for panel type, ambient light, and screen corners.
Both new devices can operate with a single Play strip light without requiring a Hue bridge, lowering the entry barrier for newcomers. Signify acknowledges HDMI sync delivers better accuracy, but the camera version handles content from built-in TV apps, which HDMI cannot access. Competitors like Govee offer camera solutions starting at $90, though Hue emphasizes its simplified setup process.
These lower-priced options could broaden the appeal of ambient lighting beyond enthusiasts, making TV-synced illumination accessible to mainstream consumers who previously balked at the $385 price tag. The camera-based model may particularly benefit casual viewers using built-in streaming apps, while the bridge-free setup removes a technical hurdle for first-time smart lighting buyers. However, the single HDMI input on the 4K model could frustrate users with multiple devices, potentially pushing them toward competitors or the pricier 8K version.