What is a smart plug?

A smart plug is an accessory that sits between a power socket and a lamp or other device or appliance, making it smart and letting you control it with an app or your voice. The Philips Hue smart plug does just that to transform any normal lamp into a smart light. A solution for lamps that can’t be used with a Philips Hue smart light bulb, the Hue smart plug is cost-effective and compact

All you need to do is plug the Hue smart plug into a wall socket, and then plug a lamp directly into the smart plug — no need for any extra wires. You can then control the lamp wirelessly with your method of choice.

When you use the Philips Hue app to control your lights, you add the smart plug to your app just like you would any other light. You can also control the smart plug with your voice with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or, if you have a Hue Bridge, Apple Home. The smart plug can also be switched on and off manually by pressing the button on the side of the plug.

The Hue smart plug allows you to control standard lamps without a Hue smart bulb along with the rest of your Philips Hue setup. It’s also a good solution for people who are new to smart lighting — just insert the Hue smart plug into a wall socket, plug in a lamp, and control it with the Philips Hue app.

By connecting a non-Hue light to a Hue smart plug, you unlock the capabilities available with other Philips Hue smart lights. Using the Philips Hue app with Bluetooth, you can switch your lamp on and off wirelessly. For other functionality, such as creating automations with the smart plug, you will need a Philips Hue Bridge.

With a Hue Bridge, you can set automations and control your lamp even when you’re away from home. This is especially useful when you’re on vacation, as you can set your light to come on in the evening, making it look like someone is home. Or, if you’re late coming back from the office, have your lamp switch on for a warm welcome home.