Do you need a Wi-Fi connection to use Philips Hue Go?
Best answer: Befitting its nature as a portable light source, the Philips Hue Go does not require you to use Wi-Fi for its most basic functions, like turning it on and off and cycling through colors.Amazon: Philips Hue Go ($80)
As a battery-powered, portable light, Philips Hue Go doesn't require Wi-Fi to use
The Philips Hue Go is battery-powered (with an option to plug in) and comes with a single button that you can use to turn the light on and off. This button can also be used to change the colors on the Hue Go with a press, while double-pressing and holding will cause the light to continually cycle through seven preset colors and intensities. Just release the button when you land on the color you want.
Unfortunately, if you're looking for any advanced functionality beyond turning the Hue Go on and off or cycling through colors, you'll need to connect it to Wi-Fi.
You'll need Wi-Fi (and a Philips Hue Bridge) for more advanced functions
If all you want to do is get some basic functionality out of your Hue without having to worry about connecting it to your Wi-Fi or using your phone, you can do that. But for more advanced functionality, including automation and connecting to your iPhone, you'll need to connect to Wi-Fi, and that means you'll need a Philips Hue Bridge.
The Philips Hue Bridge connects to your home Wi-Fi network and any Hue products you have, like the Go. It serves as a, you guessed it, bridge between your Hue products and the rest of your home, enabling you to, among other things, control your Hue lights with your iPhone. This includes the Go.
When connected to a Hue Bridge, the Go can be added to any lighting scenes you might have with other Hue lights. You also won't have to press the button on the back of the Go in order to change colors. Just open the Hue app on your phone and pick the exact color you want.
If you plan to keep your Hue Go in your home and this additional functionality appeals to you, you'll want to consider picking up a Hue Bridge, too.
The bottom line
The Hue Go is perfect if you need a portable light with great color options and minimal hassle. But if you want more expanded functionality, you'll need to complicate your life a bit and get a Philips Hue Bridge.
A simple, colorful light with hidden depths.
The Philips Hue Go is simple to set up and start using, with belies the smarter potential for this light if you choose to connect it to Wi-Fi.
Control your Philips Hue Go with your phone.
The Philips Hue Bridge can connect your Hue Go to the rest of your Hue setup if you've got one, or just allow you to control your single, solitary Go from your phone.
