November 11, 2026, 6:57 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Philips Hue is expanding its app with a new option for automations. Instead of assembling routines solely through predefined options, users can now describe their desired lighting rules in a chat. An AI assistant is used for this purpose. The feature is included in version 6.4.0 of the Hue app, but it has an important limitation.
Hue Automations Were Previously for Pros
Those who want to automatically control their lighting with Philips Hue can already use various templates. These include options such as “Wake Up” and “Timer.” However, more complex rules with multiple interconnected conditions could not be created in the Hue app until now.
For such routines, users had to rely on third-party apps or other smart home systems like Apple Home. Signify, the company behind Philips Hue, announced this expansion at the beginning of September at the IFA.
Hue Creates Automations with an AI Assistant
Signify refers to the new feature as “Custom AI Behaviors.” Users no longer have to configure the desired automation solely through individual settings. Instead, they can simply describe what should happen in a chat window. According to Signify, this allows for routines that could not previously be set up directly in the Hue app–such as weekend rules for sensors or a custom morning routine.
The AI feature can be accessed in three different places in the app. A corresponding button is located in the overviews for Home, Rooms, and Zones. Additionally, the feature is available in the “Automations” section and in the settings of the respective accessories.
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Hue Bridge Pro as a Major Drawback
However, the new “Custom AI Behaviors” only work with the Hue Bridge Pro. The older white Hue Bridge does not support them even with the current software. Additionally, the Bridge Pro requires appropriate firmware (Bridge Pro software version 6.3.2071556020). Signify has been distributing this since October 23. According to the release notes, the update provides the prerequisite for the new feature.
At the same time, Signify has increased the price of the Hue Bridge Pro by 50 percent–in September 2026, the suggested retail price rose from 99.99 euros to 149.99 euros. At market launch in September 2025, the hub cost 89.99 euros.
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What Else Changes with Hue 6.4.0
In addition to the “Custom AI Behaviors,” version 6.4.0 includes other changes. One of these affects the scene gallery. Its recommendations now also consider the time of day. Before the update, the selection only took into account the respective room or zone.
There is also a new feature for Screen Sync. Setting up the camera solution for TV synchronization is supposed to be easier. Users can now determine the corners of the screen with a two-finger zoom. The app also informs users when the automatic adjustment to the screen content is complete.
Finally, Signify is expanding SpatialAware. The feature optimizes light scenes based on the position of individual lamps. After the update, this no longer works only within a single room but also in zones and thus across multiple rooms. However, SpatialAware also requires a Hue Bridge Pro.