Philips has launched the world's most innovative lightbulb, which is connected to the internet and allows phone users to change the colour that it emits. Costing £179, the bulb comes with a pack that features connection equipment and an additional two bulbs, which use 20 per cent less energy than regular bulbs.
The most impressive part of the design, however, lies in the fact that iPhone users are able to turn the bulbs on and off irrespective of where they are in the world. This means that even if you've forgotten to flick the switch prior to going on holiday, you needn’t worry. Indeed, Philips has claimed that the new bulb will help in the fight against crime, explaining that thieves are often deterred by the sight of lights that are switched on.
Another impressive function of the design is that it will enable homeowners to save on the cost of their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint. The bulb, available exclusively from the Apple store, allows users to "tune shades of white light or create any colour", according to Philips, which added that it boasts the capacity to recreate scenes almost instantly. The shade of the light can also be used to perform the function of a backdrop for photographs.
"Philips Hue is a game-changer in lighting - a completely new way to experience and interact with light. In the way phones, media and entertainment have been revolutionised by digital technology, now we can also personalize light and enjoy limitless applications," Jeroen de Waal, head of marketing and strategy at Philips Lighting, commented.
"Philips continues to redefine the possibilities of LED technology, and Hue pushes the boundaries even more, not only in offering great light quality, but in how lighting can be digitised and integrated with our world to further simplify and enhance our lives."
Assuming the concept takes off in the consumer market, Apple can expect to see a spike in sales of iPhone handsets. However, can you envisage a day when a simple app does so much to fight crime?