New WiZ HDMI sync box for TV leaks as cheaper alternative to Philips Hue product

The WiZ HDMI sync box starter kit has been leaked at UK retailers Very and Littlewoods. Like the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box, the WiZ product comes with an HDMI sync box and TV backlight, and is designed to make your TV-watching experience more immersive. It will be available in at least two versions, suited to 55”-65” or 75”-85” TVs.

WiZ’s HDMI sync box has an integrated microphone that enables the lighting to sync to the audio. Plus, the image is read from the HDMI video source, allowing the color and brightness to be adjusted accordingly. The sync box is billed as compatible with any HDMI 2.0 device, indicating support for content with a 4K@60Hz resolution. This means that the smart lighting product will compete with the original Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box rather than the newer Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 8K (curr. $349.99 at Amazon). 

The device can create white and colored dynamic lighting effects projected onto the wall behind your TV, with users offered a range of modes like Cinematic and Relaxation. You can also connect other WiZ smart lights to enhance the synced lighting further. It is worth noting that the product listing calls it a 'Philips WiZ' product; the Philips Hue and WiZ brands are both owned by Signify but are not otherwise linked.

The WiZ HDMI sync box starter kit for 75”-85” TVs is expected to retail in the UK for £99.99. As a reminder, the original Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 4K typically costs £229.99. It remains to be seen how much the version for 55”-65” TVs will cost, or when either product will launch. Details of a launch in other regions, like North America or Europe, are also unclear.