The traditional incandescent light bulb was an invention that was way ahead of its time. It was the first true artificial light source that put an end to the world’s reliance on candles and kerosene lamps. However, its way past due for an upgrade, and LEDs represent the next generation of lighting technology. Not only are LEDs an energy saver and more eco-efficient, but the fact that they can also be controlled remotely via smartphone using Bluetooth technology gives credence to the theory that they are the light source of the future.
Smartphone-Controlled LEDs Hit the Market
If the TV has a remote control, then it’s about time that the lights come with some sort of remote activation capability. Sure, it’s not that hard to walk over to the switch and flick it on or off, but given the day and age of digital technology, consumers would welcome the idea of using their mobile devices as a remote for their light fixtures. With some LED lamps, users have a gamut of control options aside from “on” and “off.” Additional settings allow you to change the color spectrum, dim the lights, or even synchronize the lights to match the mood of a movie or song playing in the background.
Introducing the Lumen TL800 Bulb
On the surface, the TL800 Bulb by Tabu doesn’t look all that different from a traditional incandescent—though it does sport a little extra bulk courtesy of an aluminum heat sink. It’s also compatible with the standard light fixture and is practically ready for use the minute it’s screwed in. While it’s not the first smartphone-controlled bulb—that distinction belongs to Insteon’s SmartLinc—it is making a splash in the lighting industry and is notable for the wide array of hues it can produce with a simple click on your mobile device.
With an app installment, users can tinker with the multiple setting options. These include automatic shut on and shut off at timed intervals, having the lights flash during an incoming call, and even a funky party mode, in which the lights flicker and flash with different colors and mimic the effects of a disco ball.
If there are any drawbacks to the TL800, it’s that the bulb is not compatible with every Android device, since not all Android phone and tablets have Bluetooth 4.0. It has proven to work without a hitch, however, with the iOS platform.
Smartphone-Controlled LEDs Are a Look Into Tomorrow’s Future
To get an idea of just how big smartphone-activated LEDs are becoming, consider the fact that they were featured in the 2014 International Consumer Electronics tradeshow. Chip-embedded bulbs that can be controlled from across the room and even from a remote location miles away are being showcased alongside other prospective gadgets that may become commonplace in the upcoming years.
Some of the other featured electronics include voice-controlled thermostats, Bluetooth-enabled keyless door locks, and even sensors that can detect whether you are eating properly or taking your meds. Most industry experts agree, however, that it will take some time before the public at large is ready to accept smartphone-activated lights and other similar technology. Flipping a switch on the wall has become so ingrained in our habit that controlling the lights remotely may take some time to adjust to, though most analysts believe that once consumers try it for the first time, they will be hooked.
Every new piece of technology requires an adjustment period. It took the public some time to warm up to the idea of cell phones, though 91% of the world’s population now owns one. Once LEDs become more commonplace, it shouldn’t be long before smartphone-controlled lighting follows.