A More Flexible Way to Manage Smart Lights
Philips Hue, the popular smart lighting brand from Signify, has unveiled a new generation of its Hue Smart Button. This redesigned physical controller allows users to operate their smart lighting systems without needing to open a smartphone app. Positioned as a practical alternative to voice or app control, the new Smart Button offers enhanced convenience for everyday use.
Smart Control Without a Phone
The updated Hue Smart Button is designed to control Philips Hue lights and connected smart devices with a single press. Users can turn individual lights, smart plugs, or entire groups on and off instantly. A long press on the button allows for brightness adjustment, giving users more tactile control over their lighting environment.
Additionally, the button enables users to manually switch between different lighting scenes. Based on the time of day, users can set up a variety of scenes with unique color temperatures and light levels. A special night mode with dimmed lighting is also available. The button can even be programmed to trigger specific automation routines previously configured in the Hue app.
Modern Technology Meets Familiar Standards
Signify continues to rely on established technologies like Zigbee 3.0 and Bluetooth for the new Hue Smart Button, ensuring reliable performance and easy integration into existing Hue ecosystems. However, a Philips Hue Bridge is required to connect the button with a broader smart home setup.
Power is supplied by a standard CR2032 coin cell battery, which the company claims will last up to two years under average usage — estimated at around 50,000 clicks.
Bigger Design, More Versatility
The third-generation Hue Smart Button features a larger and more refined design compared to its predecessor. While the second-generation model had a diameter of 32 mm, the new version expands to 45 mm and has a thickness of 13 mm. This slight increase in size improves handling and visibility without compromising the sleek look.
One notable change is the removal of the screw-mounted wall bracket that accompanied the previous version. Instead, the new button comes with an adhesive mount and a built-in magnet, allowing it to be easily attached to metal surfaces or the included mounting plate.
Availability and Product Line Overlap
Currently, both the second- and third-generation Hue Smart Buttons are available for purchase. The newest version is sold exclusively through Signify’s official online store, priced at €21.99 and offered only in white. The older model is also still listed at the same price and color, though it’s only available via Signify and Amazon, having never entered broader retail distribution.
Signify has yet to confirm whether both models will continue to be sold side-by-side or if the older version will eventually be phased out. For now, consumers can choose between the two, but the original first-generation Hue Button has already been discontinued from regular sales.
A Small Button, A Big Upgrade
With this latest iteration, Philips Hue continues to expand its ecosystem with intuitive and user-friendly hardware. The new Smart Button offers a refined and convenient solution for users who prefer physical controls over voice or app commands — all while maintaining compatibility with the broader Hue platform. Whether for quick access, scene switching, or night mode activation, this button aims to make smart lighting even more accessible.