Tech that! Philips Play HDMI Sync box and Play gradient lightstrip – ✡ ✡ ✡ ½

What is it?

The Philips Play HDMI Sync box along with the Play gradient lightstrip gives you a more immersive TV experience by reflecting the colours you see on your television to your smart lights in real time.

Plus points:

• Brings an immersive cinema-like experience to your living room (especially for gamers or movie buffs)
•  Easy to use and set up
• You can connect your existing Philips Hue lights to the Sync box
•  Lights can be controlled via the Google assistant, Amazon Alexa or Siri
•  New partnership with Spotify can sync the lights to match the music you’re listening to

Nil points:

•  The price is bit steep, but with little competition from other companies, Philips can charge a higher price for their product
• Sync box won’t work with built-in TV apps such as Netflix, Amazon Prime or YouTube. You must plug in external devices such as a gaming console or streaming box.
•  Adhesive strips for the Philips Play gradient lightstrip can be tough to remove from the back of your TV

Verdict: ✡ ✡ ✡ ½

As cool as it is, I personally can’t justify spending so much on a product that won’t work with my built-in TV apps. If you’re a gamer or really into movies and want to recreate a cinema-like experience at home, then this is perfect for you.