Question 1

If I use Philips Hue Bluetooth, can I still use the Bridge?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All Philips Hue Bluetooth products can be used with the Philips Hue Bridge too. Just add a Bridge to your current setup and connect your existing bulbs to unlock the full suite of smart features, such as Out of home control, adding additional lights to any room of your home, and more.

Question 2

Where can I find the serial number for my Philips Hue products?

Accepted Answer

The serial number is a 6-character code usually preceded by "S/N" that is usually a mixture of letters and numbers. They may be in different places on different types of products. For a bulb, the serial number is always on the bulb itself. Lamps and fixtures may vary — for example, the serial number may be on a sticker on the lamp itself, or, such as on the Play light bar, on a sticker attached to the cord.

Tip: Make a list of your products' serial numbers for easy reference — in a note on your phone, for example. When you get a new Philips Hue product, update the list.

Question 3

How do I know if my software is up to date?

Accepted Answer

Enable automatic updates on your device to allow the Philips Hue app to update automatically. To see if the software on your lights is up to date, go to Settings > Software update. To see if the software on your Secure camera is up to date, go to Settings > Camera, select your camera, and tap Camera info.

Question 4

How and when do I update my Philips Hue software?

Accepted Answer

Your Philips Hue products update automatically. You can see the status of your product and system updates in the Philips Hue app in Settings > Software update. To see the status of your Secure camera's updates, go to Settings > Cameras, select your camera, and tap Camera info.

Question 5

I can't install the latest firmware updates on my Philips Hue products. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

Check to make sure that your phone is updated to the latest version of its operating system. Ensure your lights are plugged in or powered on via the traditional wall switch, and make sure they're reachable in the Philips Hue app. It can take up to several hours to transfer firmware updates to all of your lights, meaning that they may not show the latest update immediately. If you cannot connect to your lights a few hours after a firmware update, contact Philips Hue Support.

Question 6

Can I add older-generations Philips Hue products to my system?

Accepted Answer

Usually! We are continuously updating our software to add features, improve performance, and enhance security. We recommend all Philips Hue users turn on automatic updates in the Settings tab of the Philips Hue app to ensure the latest firmware is installed. The Philips Hue app supports the most recent Bridge firmware, while the Philips Hue cloud supports the last three major Bridge updates. These limitations ensure the ongoing quality and security of your Philips Hue system.

Question 7

Why can't I control my lights when I'm away from home?

Accepted Answer

To control your lights while away from home, you’ll need a Bridge and a Philips Hue account. Make sure that your Bridge is connected and powered on, and that you’re signed in to your account.

To see if you’re signed in to your account, go to Settings > Account. No account? Create one for free!

Question 8

Can two Philips Hue systems work together?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You'll just need to switch between the two. To switch between two systems, go to Settings > My Hue system and select the Bridge you want to control. To switch even faster, long-press the Home tab's icon! Unfortunately, you can't control two systems at the same time.

Question 9

Can I control multiple Bridges with the Philips Hue app?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you can only control one Bridge at a time. To switch between two systems, go to Settings > My Hue system and select the Bridge you want to control. To switch even faster, long-press the Home tab's icon!

Philips Hue system

FAQ list