![]() ![]() First you need to download the Philips Hue app on your mobile device. Installing the Hue Bridge 2.0 is pretty simple. Apple Homekit, as you might surmise, doesn't work with Android phones, so you can comfortably stick with your original Hue bridge instead of upgrading. In addition to HomeKit, the new bridge still supports third-party systems like If This Then That (IFTTT). If you're a Hue user without an iOS device, you won't reap any of these benefits. Read Our Amazon Echo (1st Gen, 2015) Review ![]() Link the Hue Bridge 2.0 with a HomeKit-compatible device like the Schlage Sense Deadbolt (Opens in a new window), for instance, and you can control your lights and locks simultaneously. For example, saying a phrase like "Hey Siri, I'm home" could automatically open your door locks, turn on all your lights, and turn up the heat, while "Get ready for bed" could do the opposite. Potentially, devices like lights, locks, and thermostats can turn on or adjust to your desired configuration, all at the same time, through a command on your phone. If you're unfamiliar with Apple's HomeKit, it's basically a platform that interconnects the apps that control your smart home products. It's a much cleaner, more attractive design than the last model. On the bottom you'll find four rubber feet, as well as a Philips Hue logo, serial numbers, the HomeKit number needed to pair the bridge with your iOS device, and notches you can use to mount the bridge on a wall. It's smooth on every side except for the front, which houses both the power and Ethernet ports. The perimeter of the button glows blue when it's plugged in and connected to a Wi-Fi signal. It's made of high-quality white matte plastic, with a large Philips button centered on top. It measures 3.5 inches across and 1 inch tall. The Bridge 2.0 ( at Amazon) (Opens in a new window) is slightly smaller than the previous version, shaped like a square with rounded corners. Read our editorial mission (Opens in a new window) & see how we test (Opens in a new window). ![]() Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions. Veteran users can get it for $40 (Opens in a new window) using a discount through Philips' website. New users have to pay $60 for the standalone bridge, or get it bundled in various Hue starter kits. If you already have Hue lighting in your home, you need the Bridge 2.0 if you want HomeKit integration for voice control. If you're new to Hue, the Bridge 2.0 is clearly the place to start, although outfitting your entire home with Hue bulbs can become rather pricey. Unlike the previous model that came bundled with the Philips Hue Connected Bulb ($199.99 at Verizon) (Opens in a new window), the new bridge is now equipped with HomeKit, Apple's smart home protocol that allows you to control old and new Hue lights through voice commands on your iOS devices. Not only are its new Hue bulbs brighter, you can now control them with Siri using the $59.99 Philips Hue Bridge 2.0. Philips is refreshing its line of smart lighting products. How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication.How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac.How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files.How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill.How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad.How to Block Robotexts and Spam Messages.
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