How will Philips Hue smart bulbs change after the update?

The bulbs will support simultaneous Zigbee and Thread connectivity, allowing direct integration with Apple Home, Google Home, or Amazon Alexa ecosystems without resetting. This simplifies setup while preserving Hue Bridge functionality.

Why support two protocols simultaneously?

Dual-protocol operation enhances flexibility for connecting to different ecosystems without losing functionality. It also paves the way for future improvements, such as using bulbs as Thread network extenders.

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Philips Hue Updates Smart Bulbs: Simultaneous Thread and Zigbee Support

June 24, 2026

Photo: The Verge

Quick answer

Philips Hue integrates Silicon Labs' concurrent multiprotocol (CMP) technology to enable simultaneous Zigbee and Thread operation in its smart bulbs, enhancing cross-ecosystem compatibility.

Philips Hue has announced a significant update for its smart bulbs, introducing Matter-over-Thread support. Now, devices can operate simultaneously in Zigbee and Thread networks—a feature previously unavailable without resetting. This innovation enables users to connect bulbs directly to popular ecosystems like Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, or Google Home without losing their Hue Bridge connection or proprietary features.

The update is powered by concurrent multiprotocol technology (CMP), developed by chip supplier Silicon Labs. This technology enables parallel operation of Bluetooth, Zigbee, and Thread, allowing bulbs to receive commands from multiple sources without switching protocols. According to Philips Hue CTO George Yanni, this simplifies device interaction and enhances versatility.

The update will be available later this year for bulbs based on Silicon Labs MG26 and SiMG301 chips, released in late 2023. Notably, similar capabilities are already implemented in Qorvo chips used in IKEA devices. In the future, Philips Hue bulbs may serve as Thread network extenders, improving smart home coverage and stability.

Currently, users can connect Hue bulbs to Matter ecosystems via the Hue Bridge, but the new update eliminates this dependency. This opens new integration possibilities while maintaining access to all proprietary ecosystem features. Philips Hue has not ruled out a full transition to Thread in the future if the standard offers advantages over Zigbee, such as improved lighting synchronization or motion-based zone control.

Common questions

How will Philips Hue smart bulbs change after the update?: The bulbs will support simultaneous Zigbee and Thread connectivity, allowing direct integration with Apple Home, Google Home, or Amazon Alexa ecosystems without resetting. This simplifies setup while preserving Hue Bridge functionality.
Which devices will receive the update?: The update will apply to the latest Philips Hue bulbs based on Silicon Labs MG26 and SiMG301 chips, released in late 2023. Support will be added later in 2024.
Why support two protocols simultaneously?: Dual-protocol operation enhances flexibility for connecting to different ecosystems without losing functionality. It also paves the way for future improvements, such as using bulbs as Thread network extenders.

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