Just in time for IFA 2026 in Berlin, Signify has unveiled a major update for its Philips Hue ecosystem. The update focuses on new AI-powered automations, deeper integration with Sonos, more options for TV synchronization, and a partnership with Nanoleaf. It also includes several new designer lights for indoor and outdoor use. The first products and software updates will be available starting September 3, 2026, with more to follow over the next few months.
Custom AI Behaviors, Backup & Restore, and Sonos Integration
Exclusively for the Hue Bridge Pro, Signify is introducing “Custom AI Behaviors,” a feature that will allow users to easily describe complex automations using natural language. The Hue AI automatically translates the input into a combination of triggers, conditions, and lighting actions. For example, users could set switches and sensors to behave differently on weekends or have a specific scene activate as soon as it gets dark—regardless of the time of day.
The feature is scheduled to roll out via a software update for Bridge Pro users in supported languages starting in early October 2026. Also new is “Backup & Restore”: Users of the Hue Bridge and Bridge Pro will soon be able to back up their entire configuration—lights, accessories, rooms, zones, scenes, and automations—to the Hue Cloud.
Restoring a backed-up setup will initially be limited to Bridge Pro users. A rollout date has not yet been set. In addition, there is a Sonos integration that was previously leaked and has now been officially confirmed: Select Hue switches, including the Tap Dial Switch, will be able to play Sonos favorites, pause music, adjust the volume, and switch between tracks—all without a separate app. The integration is scheduled to roll out via an update in November 2026.
More Sync Options for Home Theater and a New Nanoleaf Partnership
For the entertainment sector, Philips Hue is introducing “Play Screen Sync,” a plug-and-play solution that uses a fisheye lens to capture the entire screen’s content and translates it into dynamic ambient lighting, regardless of the source—whether it’s a smart TV app, broadcast, or HDMI device. Price: starting at 119.99 euros, available starting September 3, 2026.
For those who prefer a classic HDMI solution, the new “Play HDMI Sync Box 4K” offers a sleeker and more affordable alternative to the previous Sync Box, which synchronizes a single HDMI input. It starts at 149.99 euros. Another new feature is bridge-free synchronization: When used with a Play Gradient TV Strip, the TV lighting can now be set up via Bluetooth without a Hue Bridge; with the Bridge, up to 10 lights can be included in a surround setup.
Using the Philips Hue Wall Light Modules (starting at 39.99 euros), compatible Nanoleaf Shapes—Hexagons, Triangles, and Mini Triangles—can now be integrated into Hue scenes and entertainment areas. This brings Hue closer to competitors like the recently introduced AI-powered Govee Sky Ceiling Light, which also focuses on smart lighting scenes.
New Designer Lights: Liane, Signe, and Festavia
There are also new additions beyond the software: The new “Liane 360°” light strip (starting at 399.99 euros) ensures uniform illumination all around thanks to Philips Hue OmniGlow technology and can be flexibly wrapped around furniture or architectural elements.
The award-winning Signe collection is expanding to include pendant, pendulum, and pole variants (starting at 299.99 euros), with availability in North America set for November.
For outdoor use, Festavia is expanding its lineup with curtain, string, and icicle lights (starting at 229.99 euros), as well as new, more affordable wall sconces and spotlights (starting at 79.99 euros). A new OmniGlow outdoor strip light (starting at 199.99 euros) rounds out the update. All design products will be available in Europe starting September 3, 2026.
Source: Signify press release, September 3, 2026
