Roger Fingas
LEDVANCE's Sylvania brand on Monday announced two new Smart+ lights supporting HomeKit: the Soft White A19 bulb, and the Full Color Indoor Flex Strip.
The Soft White bulb fits in any conventional A19 lamp socket, and like many smartbulbs is dimmable and rated at 800 lumens. It can't change color, however.
The Flex Strip is rated at just 400 lumens, but includes three sections measuring 6 feet combined, and is simply intended to be accent lighting for walls, cabinets, shelves, or other furniture. Its color range extends from 1,900 to 6,500K.
Both accessories will work without a hub, but remote access and automation does require one in the form of an Apple TV, iPad, or HomePod.
The Soft White A19 costs $25.99, and is shipping Oct. 23. The Flex Strip is due the same day for $59.99.
Charles Martin
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Malcolm Owen
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6 Comments
800 lumens = 60w bulb. Too dim, and at such a low brightness its dimming ability doesn't mean much. I don't understand why we aren't seeing bright smart bulbs yet. (There are some adequately bright normal LED bulbs but no automation support)
Man, $25.99 for a single bulb? Too much for my blood. I really want to start adding lights to my smart home set up (currently consisting of a thermostat, door lock, & ceiling fan) but can’t find the right product. Either they required a hub, which I don’t want, or they are too costly. Sweet spot would be like $15 a bulb. Doesn’t need to be color changing.