Philips Hue Logo (Photo : Twitter)
Philips shipped out a firmware update a few days ago for its Philips Hue bridge, which blocked third-party light bulbs, claiming that interoperability (data sharing/use by different systems) problems were the reason. However, after receiving many customer complaints, the company announced that it would reverse its erroneous move by sending another permanent software update for its smart lighting platform.
Philips' wireless bridge controls light bulbs. It previously allowed third-party bulbs using the ZigBee protocol to function on the Philips Hue starter kit and apps system.
However, Philips has been trying to address the big problem of unofficial light bulbs affecting the functionality of the Philips Hue bridge. Its Friends of Hue program allows bulb makers to produce units that function with the Philips Hue bridge, according to Tech Crunch. The bulbs include a special sticker.
Nevertheless, some unofficial bulb users have not had any problems using Philips Hue. In addition, Philips products have a much higher price tag than other light bulbs.
These issues explain why the company will release another upgrade that it is now finalizing, which users can install by using the Philips Hue app. In a statement Philips stated that it had underestimated the effect that blocking third-party bulbs would have on a small number of its customers.
However, the Dutch company also warned that using uncertified light bulbs could cause the same compatibility issues that customers experienced in the past. They include various unwanted results including producing the wrong colors or not dimming to off, according to PC Mag.
Philips was founded in 1891 and is headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Its first products included carbon-filament lamps.
