In the past few months, I have found myself enamored with smart lighting technology. I have lights that can be controlled through my Amazon Echo in three rooms and when Raina and I get a house, I plan to have it throughout. One of the items I expect I’ll put in some rooms is the MiPow Playbulb Sphere. It’s awesome!
The MiPow Playbulb Sphere is exactly what it sounds like: it is a spherical light that can be controlled remotely That, however, is just the beginning. The MiPow Playbulb Sphere can change color, can be dimmed or brightened remotely and…wait for it…can be taken from its charging base and used pretty much anywhere. Yes, this light has a rechargeable battery inside so it can illuminate pretty much any space you want. How great is that?!?!
From MiPow:
It is a great lighting centerpiece for home decorations. With Bluetooth connectivity, it allows for a color change
depending on your mood. Its smooth surface texture is made from high-quality glass and gives an incredible light show experience.
The Playbulb Sphere comes in two parts. There is a thin disk that charges the bulb and, when used on a table or nightstand, provides a secure base. The stand has both a microUSB port and a full-sized USB port.
The microUSB is used for the power source. Plug the included USB to microUSB cable in and connect it to a wall outlet and you are good to go. The full size USB port can be used to charge a second device. Simply plug in your own cable and you are good to go. (I love when companies let their device also serve as a charging platform for other devices. It just makes sense.)
The second part of the product is the sphere itself. It has a refined look and feel that you will be proud to show off.
Materials That Matter: Our concept idea was to bring forth a brand new experience in smart lighting that is long lasting. The feeling of a glass-designed texture brings a naturalistic look and beautiful setting anywhere.
The sphere has just one button on the bottom that helps you control it although tapping the sphere also turns the light on and off. Its pretty neat. While on the stand, what the company refers to as a “wireless inductive charging dock” the sphere charges. It can operate while sitting on the dock but, as mentioned, also works with it is removed. Each full charge provides up to 8 hours of lighting delight!
It is also worth noting that, while not waterproof, the sphere is water resistant. With an IP65 water resistant rating the sphere is
ready for use in wet environments such as at poolside or in a garden area. And, as mentioned, the sphere can change color either through the app or simply by tapping on it.
Portability By Design: The sphere provides the freedom to take it wherever you go. By tapping it, you can manually change the color presets to the one you like. Tap it as many times as you like.
Key to all of this is the free PLAYBULB X App. The PLAYBULB X app for iOS and Android lets you control the color and brightness of the sphere. There is a color wheel, 5 lighting effects, and a grouping feature if you have more than one sphere. I’ll be honest, the app is a bit buggy. It works better when I use my iPad to control the light than it does when I use my iPhone. I’m not sure why but it has been a bit of a frustration.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 153mm x 140mm
- Charging Mode: Wireless Inductive
- Connection: Bluetooth Smart
- Battery Life: 8 Hours (Full Charge)
- LED Power: 0.4W
- Recharging Time: 3 Hours
- Power Input: 0.25A/5V
- App Support/Compatible Devices: PLAYBULB X App for iOS and Android Devices)
I really love this product. I love that you can, “Tap it and Take it.” The sphere gives off a night light and the fact that you aren’t locked into a specific location is great. Yes, the app is buggy but that is my biggest complaint. Other than that this is a fantastic smart-light and I plan to have a few more in my house when we get one.
You can learn more here. You can get yours here for just $49.99. [Affiliate link.]
Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample
What I Like: Puts out decent light; Can change color and intensity; Can be used for up to eight hours off the charging base.
What Needs Improvement: The app is buggy