Philips Hue has launched cheaper ways to sync its smart lights with television screens, lowering the barrier to entry for its entertainment lighting system. The new Sync Box 4K starts at $150, a significant drop from the $385 8K model, while the brand has also introduced its first camera-based option, the Play Screen Sync, priced at $119.99. Both were unveiled at the IFA tech show in Berlin and are available immediately, aiming to make the colour-matching lighting effect more accessible to casual buyers.

The HDMI-based Sync Box pulls visuals from connected devices such as streaming boxes or games consoles and is considered more accurate, though the cheaper 4K version has only one HDMI input and supports 4K at 60Hz via HDMI 2.0, versus four inputs and HDMI 2.1 on the 8K model. The camera-based Play Screen Sync uses a fisheye lens with automatic calibration and can react to any on-screen content, including built-in TV apps that the HDMI boxes cannot read, though rivals like Govee already offer camera-based systems from $90. Philips Hue says its auto-detection technology makes setup simpler than competitors. All three sync options can now work directly with a single Play strip light without needing a Hue bridge, and a new gradient strip light range, including a 100-inch-capable Pro version from $179.99, goes on sale on 15 September.