LIFX's new smart bulb extends security camera night vision

LIFX has launched LIFX+, a smart bulb that radiates IR light. The fixture is seen as a perfect companion for IR security cameras for the emitted IR can boost camera night vision range.

Besides giving off IR light that is invisible to the naked eye, the smart bulb packs 16 million colors and can switch to various lighting scenes and palettes. Settings and controls are manageable through the LIFX mobile app for Android, iOS and Windows 10.

The smart IR bulb can also integrate well into the smart home for it can connect with smart home cameras like Arlo Q and controllers, including the SmartThings motion sensor and Logitech’s Pop switch. The bulb can be preordered for $80 and will be retailed at $90 when released in November.

Color-changing features, app controls and smart home compatibility are already mainstream features in smart LED bulbs, making IR a unique selling point for LIFX+ or an edge over its competitors. However, LIFX+ is not alone in the innovative security bulb race for there are already fixtures that have successfully added other significant security functions such as tracking and intercom. These breakthroughs and increase in smart security lighting offerings show that security lighting is gaining more attention and importance in the smart home market.