With most IoT devices, like Philips’ Hue smart lightbulbs, it requires users to pair the devices with a hub. This allows users to exert greater control over their devices, whereas if you did not connect to a hub, all you’d get is basic functionality. However this is something that the Sylvania smart bulbs want to do away with.Announced by LEDVANCE, the company has unveiled the Sylvania Smart Multicolor A19 bulb that does away with the need for a hub. This is an Apple HomeKit-enabled device which also means that users will be able to control it via their iOS devices via the Home app. Alternatively it seems that these bulbs can also be controlled using Siri.
According to Aaron Ganick, who heads up the Smart Home Americas group at LEDVANCE, “For us, making the Smart Home a reality for consumers is all about quality products and strong partnerships with leaders in the industry. By working with Apple to provide smart lighting that works directly with the Home app, we’re making it easier for Apple enthusiasts to seamlessly integrate quality lighting into their Smart Home, bringing convenience and simplicity to their daily lives.”
Ultimately what this means for users is that all they’ll have to do is screw the bulb in and they’re pretty much good to go. No word on pricing, but the company’s Amazon Alexa-enabled version retails for about $40, so it wouldn’t surprise us if the HomeKit version will be priced around that mark as well.
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