GE debuts HomeKit-enabled C by GE smart lights, wall switches, wall plug

C by GE Smart Switch

GE built on its smart home offerings at CES 2019, announcing a range of new C by GE products including HomeKit-enabled smart wall switches, white and full color LED bulbs, and a smart wall plug.

Announced earlier this month as "Made-for-Google" devices, the expansions to C by GE's quickly growing product line are also confirmed to support Apple's HomeKit platform through a $40 hub dubbed C-Reach.

With the Smart Switch, an in-wall light switch replacement, users are able to control and dim incandescent, halogen, CFL or LED bulbs on a connected circuit. The switches provide multi-way connections without a travel wire, simplifying installation and set-up. Unique to GE's lineup is a bypass feature — restricted to Google Home and Alexa users — that enables control of C by GE bulbs even when the switch is off.

The Smart Switch family is offered in a range of models, including a simple on/off unit for $35, a version with built-in dimmer for $50 and a top-end model with motion ambient light sensing for $75.

C by GE is also bringing a family of bulbs to market. Similar to other manufacturers, like Philips' Hue lineup, GE will sell a 60-watt equivalent A19 bulb, a BR30 for recessed cans and a light strip. A white connected bulb will run $13, while a tunable white version is slated to sell for $20. A more advanced bulb capable of emitting millions of colors is set to sell for $30.

Finally, a smart wall plug with single outlet and physical power button is scheduled to sell for $25.

Each of the new C by GE products will be HomeKit-enabled when they launch this spring. A C-Reach hub is required to operate via the Home app and Siri.

AppleInsider is at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas from Jan. 8 through Jan. 11, where we're expecting 5G devices, HomeKit, 8K monitors and more. Keep up with our coverage by downloading the AppleInsider app, and follow us on YouTube, Twitter @appleinsider and Facebook for live, late-breaking coverage. You can also check out our official Instagram account for exclusive photos throughout the event.