Philips Hue is the most well-known smart lighting brand, but it's been a little behind on features. Until now, the only way to group lights was within rooms. With the latest app update, you can finally create custom groups, known as Hue Zones.
Read MoreBest Buy has a Hue White Ambiance bulb and dimmer switch bundle for $30 ($20 off)
One of the biggest problems with getting into the smart home game is how expensive individual pieces can be. Even light bulbs, at least from the more well-known brands, can be quite costly. For this reason, deals like this one are definitely worth noting. Best Buy is currently offering a Hue White Ambiance bulb and dimmer switch bundle for a mere $29.99, a savings of $20.
Read MoreSave up to 20% on these color Philips Hue bundles: 5-pack bulbs, switch, and hub for $270, or 3 pendant lamps and bridge for $290
I'm a big fan of Philips' Hue products because they're easy to use, reliable, expandable, work across platforms, and can be integrated with third-party software. Nevertheless, I find their regular MSRP to be quite high, which is why I'm usually on the lookout for discounts when I want to buy new bulbs. If you were thinking of getting Hue lights, today is your lucky day, as you can save up to 20% on Hue bundles.
Read MoreYou can get a refurbished Philips Hue starter kit for as low as $41, but only for today
I know you know about Philips Hue — it's pretty much got the market cornered on high-end connected lighting. If you've wanted a set but you've been put off by the price, now might be your chance: Amazon's got some great deals on certified refurbished Hue starter kits, but they're only good today.
Read MoreAdd a little color to your home with this $36 Philips Hue smart bulb ($14 off)
Smart lights are so convenient: They can obey your voice commands, be programmed to turn on or off by themselves, work together with motion detectors to light up when someone's in the room and can create a relaxing atmosphere when coupled with other bulbs. However, the best way to produce a lovely setting with lights is by using colors. I love to use my Hue Iris and Lightstrip to design a dimmed ambiance with shades of blue in my living room when I want to relax. The only drawback with this setup is that the lights are bulky and need to be plugged into a power socket.
Read MorePhilips Hue v3.14 rolling out with promised custom power-on behavior
Just about a month ago, Philips announced that Hue owners would soon be able to set custom power-on behaviors, meaning that you can tell your lights how you want them to come on when you flip the switch or the power returns. This includes brightness and color.
Read MorePhilips Hue bulbs are getting more power-on options, new sleep and wake functionality with Google Assistant
Last month, Hue bulbs were updated with the option to use their most recent settings when powering on, rather than coming on at full brightness. Hue has now announced that users will soon be able to choose what setting lights power on with — full brightness, the last used setting, or a user-defined custom setting. The bulbs are also getting new sleep and wake functionality with Google Assistant, meant to replicate sunset and sunrise.
Read MoreArlo announces new Security System, Works With Arlo program with partners like Sonos and Hue
Arlo is at CES 2019 with a few interesting announcements. The security camera maker is expanding its portfolio with more integrations and a new security system.
Read MoreThe Best Of AP
Philips Hue Play review: Impressive media-syncing light bars, but with room for improvement
As well as offering simple light bulbs and accessories for your home, Philips has been pushing its Hue lights for entertainment purposes more and more. The Zigbee-toting Hue lights can now be used as accent lighting for music, film, and even gaming, which may seem gimmicky or cool, depending on your outlook. I would say it’s a bit of both, or at least that’s how I view the latest addition to the lineup, the Hue Play.
Read MoreCertified refurbished Philips Hue products are up to 38 percent off today on Amazon
Hue lights can be pricey, but buying refurbished is a good way to save some cash, especially when additional discounts are available. And wouldn't you know it, additional discounts are available today! Amazon has a number of Hue bulbs and package deals on sale for up to 38 percent off.
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