Signify has introduced the latest addition to the Philips Hue smart lighting lineup with the unveiling of the Play wall washer. The goal of this product is to enhance the home entertainment experience by offering wide-angle lighting and dynamic sync capabilities. In conjunction with this launch, Philips Hue is extending the availability of its generative AI assistant, with the UK expected to gain access in July and global availability projected by the end of August.
**Immersive Lighting with a Design Focus**
The newly launched Philips Hue Play wall washer is designed to elevate entertainment spaces, combining lighting performance with a sleek, modern design. Crafted from matte aluminum and featuring a transparent projection window, this wall washer stands out from traditional plastic lighting fixtures. Its design allows it to seamlessly blend into home environments, whether it’s turned on or off.
Utilizing Signify’s ColorCast projection technology, the Play wall washer creates wide-angle gradients on walls, providing ambient effects for movies, games, and music. These lighting effects respond in real-time to on-screen content when used with Hue Sync apps or the Hue HDMI Sync Box.
When not in use for entertainment purposes, the device transitions into an ambient lighting mode, producing a continuous wash of color that can be customized. Users can adjust the projection range by repositioning the device closer or further from the wall, giving them physical control over the lighting effect.
**Compatibility and Control**
The Play wall washer seamlessly integrates into the Philips Hue ecosystem. Control is accessible through the Philips Hue app, voice assistants (Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit), and existing Hue accessories. The updated app interface includes a 3D drag-and-drop tool that enables users to visualize and adjust the device’s light direction and placement more accurately.
This addition aligns with Philips Hue’s broader approach of viewing lighting not just as a functional element but also as a component of interior design. The company emphasizes that the Play wall washer is as much about visual appeal when not in use as it is about delivering lighting performance.
**Global Launch Timeline and Pricing**
The Philips Hue Play wall washer will be available in various configurations and regions. All models are set to launch in the EU, UK, USA, and Canada in June 2025, with additional availability in other global markets later in the year.
**Availability Timeline:**
– **June 2025:** EU/UK, USA, Canada
– **September 2025:** China, Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand
**UK Pricing:**
– Single pack (black or white): £169.99
– 2-pack (black or white): £299.99
**Generative AI Assistant Expands to the UK**
In addition to the hardware release, Philips Hue is expanding its AI assistant – a generative tool designed to simplify and personalize lighting experiences. Currently live in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, the assistant allows users to input moods, styles, or occasions via text or voice. The system then suggests an existing lighting scene or creates a new one if no suitable match is found.
The assistant is currently operational when the Hue app is set to English and is anticipated to launch in the UK in July 2025, with a global rollout expected by the end of August.
Future updates will introduce features such as scheduling, automation, and in-app chatbot support. These enhancements are part of Philips Hue’s strategy to make smart lighting more intuitive and responsive to user needs.
