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If you’ve never tried a connected internet of things (IoT) device before – aka something that’s part of a ‘smart home’ setup – and are curious to try, then the easiest place to start would be with smart lights.
So, what makes a light smart? Simply put, it will connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network or to your phone via Bluetooth (in some cases, both) so you can control it via a companion app or voice commands using popular virtual assistants such as Alexa, Siri or Google Assistant. You can dim them, brighten them, get many of them to change color and add some ambience to your home. If you’ve got multiple smart lights set up from different brands, you can often use a hub to control them all from one place.
Latest about Smart Lights
IKEA just released a super cheap Philips Hue Play Light Bar lookalike
The new IKEA lamp costs the same as a cup of coffee, but don't expect it to create an immersive home theater experience.
The 3 best smart light bulbs, recommended by a home tech editor
Upgrading to smart lighting costs less than you might expect, whether it's a single room or your whole home.
IKEA's donut-shaped Varmblixt smart lamp is landing early in some stores
The pastel-hued smart lamp was originally scheduled to launch in April, but some shoppers have spotted it on shelves already.
IKEA's latest motion-activated light 'can be installed anywhere'
The Ankarlägg is battery-operated, has a self-adhesive mount, and doesn't need a pricey smart home hub.
These outdoor Philips Hue lights are next in line for a big rumored upgrade
Philips Hue has been busy upgrading several product lines recently, and the Lucca series is said to be next.
I test smart lights for a living, and these are my top 3 Philips Hue smart lights to brighten up any space
Give any room a glow-up and set the mood with these color-shifting smart lights.
A behind-the-scenes look at the 5 best upgrades in the new IKEA donut lamp
Exclusive: 'It felt like a really good place to show how smart features can genuinely improve everyday life.'
IKEA exec shares the secrets behind the brand's new-and-improved donut lamp
One of IKEA's most popular products has had a glow-up – I got the low-down on the new-look donut lamp.
