Apple to sell Philips LED lighting system

Philips Lighting Co., Somerset, N.J., today introduced its hue LED system, which it’s promoting as the world's first Web-enabled LED home lighting system available direct to the consumer. Philips says hue has a color rendering index (CRI) of over 90 in the white range, closely mimicking the color qualities of an incandescent and provides more than 16 million colors to customize the lighting in each room. Users will be able to manage up to 50 hue bulbs from one device and allow each bulb to be controlled individually.

Offered exclusively through Apple stores beginning on Oct. 30, the hue starter kit includes three LED bulbs that fit into any standard light fixture, a bridge that connects to existing wireless routers. hue starter kits will retail for $199 and are available at Apple stores nationwide on Oct. 30. Additional bulbs will be available at $59.

Says a press release announcing hue, “Philips hue sets up in minutes and, with a quick download of the hue application, the system can be controlled from any iOS or Android device. From the app, consumers can remotely control their home lighting for added security, personalize their lighting experience with custom settings, or program timers to help manage daily schedules, all through the convenience of their smart device.” Details.