Philips Hue Doorbell Leak: Another Ring Competitor, or More of the Same?

Philips Hue, known for its vibrant and customizable smart lighting solutions, might be venturing further into the smart home security arena. A recent, albeit accidental, reveal suggests the company is developing a video doorbell, potentially under the "Hue Secure" product line. This leak, spotted by eagle-eyed Philips Hue users, paints a picture of a device that, at first glance, appears to align with the established norms of the smart doorbell market, rather than pushing the boundaries of innovation.

The initial discovery stemmed from an unusual listing within the Philips Hue app’s "no QR code" menu. This menu is typically reserved for devices that require Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for setup, bypassing the traditional QR code scanning process. The presence of a "secure doorbell" entry strongly indicates that Philips Hue is gearing up to launch its own version of this popular smart home gadget.

Screenshots shared by the smart home blog Hueblog offer a glimpse of the doorbell’s potential design. The images depict a fairly standard arrangement, featuring a camera lens positioned above a doorbell button. While the leaked images don’t reveal intricate details, they suggest a conventional rectangular form factor, similar to many existing doorbells on the market.

However, the leak also raises some critical questions about the doorbell’s features and functionality. Perhaps the most significant concern is the potential lack of a battery-powered option. The leaked information suggests that the device will require a "properly wired" electrical connection, implying that users will need to physically wire it into their home’s existing doorbell system.

This wired-only approach has both potential advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, it could translate to a more affordable price point. Wired doorbells often cost significantly less than their battery-powered counterparts. Ring, for example, typically charges twice as much for its battery-operated doorbells compared to its wired-only models.

However, a wired-only requirement would also limit the doorbell’s appeal and accessibility. Renters, or individuals residing in older homes without pre-existing doorbell wiring, would be unable to utilize the device. This could significantly reduce the potential market for Philips Hue’s doorbell.

Beyond the power source, the leak offers limited insights into the doorbell’s technical specifications. The size and resolution of the camera sensor remain unknown. Most modern doorbell cameras, including those from brands like Blink and Ring, offer 1080p high-definition video with a wide field of view to capture a comprehensive "head-to-toe" view of the porch area.

It’s reasonable to assume that Philips Hue’s doorbell would offer similar video capabilities. The company’s existing Hue Security cameras already incorporate motion detection technology, which would likely be integrated into the doorbell to trigger recording and send alerts to users’ smartphones.

Despite the lack of detailed specifications, the leak raises the broader question of whether Philips Hue’s doorbell will offer any unique features or innovations that set it apart from the competition. The smart home security market is already crowded with established players offering a wide range of doorbell options, each with its own set of features and price points.

The author of the original article expresses a desire for Philips Hue to "do something different" with its outdoor security suite, suggesting that the leaked doorbell design appears somewhat "staid" and uninspired. They playfully suggest unconventional features, such as a doorbell that "strobes with light" whenever a package is delivered, adding a touch of whimsy to the often-serious realm of home security.

While such a feature might be considered unconventional, it highlights the potential for Philips Hue to leverage its expertise in lighting to create a truly unique and engaging smart doorbell experience. Imagine a doorbell that subtly changes color to indicate different events, such as a delivery arrival, a visitor’s presence, or even a potential security threat.

Alternatively, Philips Hue could focus on seamless integration with its existing ecosystem of smart lighting products. For example, the doorbell could trigger specific lighting scenes when motion is detected, deterring potential intruders or providing enhanced visibility at night. The possibilities are vast, and Philips Hue has the opportunity to create a doorbell that goes beyond basic video monitoring and becomes an integral part of a comprehensive smart home experience.

Ultimately, the success of Philips Hue’s doorbell will depend on its ability to differentiate itself from the competition. If the device simply offers the same features and functionality as existing doorbells, it may struggle to gain traction in a crowded market. However, if Philips Hue can leverage its unique strengths and deliver a truly innovative and engaging smart doorbell experience, it has the potential to become a significant player in the smart home security arena.

As of the writing of the original article, Gizmodo reached out to Philips Hue for comment but did not receive an immediate response. This official silence leaves room for speculation and anticipation as consumers await further details about Philips Hue’s potential foray into the world of smart doorbells. The coming months will likely reveal more about the device’s features, pricing, and availability, shedding light on whether Philips Hue’s doorbell will be a game-changer or simply another face in the crowd.