Philips Hue adds concurrent Thread and Zigbee support

Previously, users had to commit to a single protocol during the initial setup, meaning a factory reset was required to switch between ecosystems. By leveraging concurrent multiprotocol technology (CMP) developed by chip supplier Silicon Labs, the new update permits the hardware to listen for commands from multiple sources at once. The light will now respond to inputs from a Hue remote or bridge while remaining active on the broader Thread network.

This functionality will arrive later this year for devices powered by the Silicon Labs MG26 and SiMG301 wireless SoCs. According to CTO George Yianni, the update eliminates the friction of manual network management, ensuring that devices remain responsive regardless of the control interface. This shift aligns Philips Hue with a more flexible approach to smart home interoperability, mirroring capabilities found in dual-protocol products from manufacturers such as Aqara and Ikea.