Update: New Philips Hue Secure Video Doorbell Spotted in App
Philips Hue App Leak Reveals New Video Doorbell
An update to the Philips Hue app this week appears to have leaked a new Hue Secure video doorbell, according to reports from Hueblog. The unannounced product shows up in a section offering instructions for adding devices without QR codes.
First Look at the New Hue Secure Doorbell
From the screenshots below, taken in the iOS Hue app by colleague Jennifer Pattison Tuohy, the Hue Secure doorbell is a straightforward video doorbell – tall, rectangular, and with what looks like a large button inside an LED circle. As of this writing, the app still shows it on my phone.
Technical Details Emerge
I was only able to get so far in the instructions before hitting a wall, but there are details to glean. The device might be a wired device, thanks to mentions of low-voltage errors and a need to "physically install" the camera before setup. It also uses both Bluetooth (for setup, at least) and Wi-Fi.
Launch and Pricing Expectations
Hueblog writes that the camera isn’t expected to launch until this fall, so it could be a while before pricing or camera specs are available. The best way to set your expectations is probably to look at Hue’s other Secure cameras, such as the floodlight and indoor/outdoor options launched in 2023. They each offer 1080p video, two-way talk, and end-to-end encryption of recordings, as well as smart alerts for people, pets, and vehicles. They also don’t support HomeKit Secure Video, and I wouldn’t expect that to change with this device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the new Hue Secure video doorbell be available?
A: The camera isn’t expected to launch until this fall.
Q: What features can I expect from the new Hue Secure video doorbell?
A: It will likely offer 1080p video, two-way talk, and end-to-end encryption of recordings, as well as smart alerts for people, pets, and vehicles, similar to other Hue Secure cameras.
Q: Will the new Hue Secure video doorbell support HomeKit Secure Video?
A: No, it’s unlikely to support HomeKit Secure Video, based on the features of other Hue Secure cameras.
