Recently, Philips Lighting, a leading global provider of lighting solutions, announced a strategic collaboration with Jingdong’s hardware product, the "Zhai Speaker." This move marks the official inclusion of Zhai Speakers into Philips' "Friends of Hue" program. The integration of smart speakers and smart home systems is a logical progression, as smart speakers serve as the ideal gateway for smart home ecosystems. On one hand, smart speakers require a diverse range of brands to join in order to expand their utility; on the other hand, smart home systems seek partnerships across various platforms to break away from single-interaction modes.
The event was attended by several key figures, including Bill Bien, the Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer of Philips Lighting; Dr. Wei Qiang, CEO of Beijing Linglong Technology, which develops the Zhai Speaker; Shen Xiaohui, the Greater China Marketing Director of Philips Lighting; and Fang Li, Vice President of Beijing Linglong Technology. Following the signing of the agreement, these executives participated in a digital interview with Sina, sharing insights on the current state of smart speakers and smart home systems.
Dr. Wei Qiang emphasized that the primary aim of smart speakers is not to replace existing devices like smartphones but to offer new ways to enhance daily life. He noted that many users lack a comprehensive understanding of the potential of smart speakers, perceiving them merely as tools for playing music or checking the weather. In reality, smart speakers excel in facilitating hands-free operations, particularly in situations where using a mobile phone might be inconvenient—such as cooking or multitasking.
One of the core functions of smart speakers lies in their ability to connect smart home appliances. While some functionalities can be achieved through mobile apps, the market tends to favor smart speakers due to their technological maturity and ease of use. Wei Qiang envisions a future where devices like TVs and refrigerators are seamlessly integrated into a unified smart ecosystem, responding to voice commands without requiring specific targeting. This cooperation with Philips Lighting represents a significant step towards that vision.
For Philips Lighting, the partnership with Zhai Speakers aligns well with its broader strategy. The "Friends of Hue" initiative allows Philips Lighting to expand its reach by connecting with non-lighting devices. Bill Bien highlighted that Philips Hue operates on an open API platform, enabling third-party developers to create applications that enhance lighting experiences. To date, over 700 applications have been developed, demonstrating the growing ecosystem around Philips Lighting products.
Shen Xiaohui, General Manager of Philips Lighting Greater China Marketing, explained that the integration of smart speakers and lighting systems enables users to control home environments more intuitively. This extends beyond mere functionality to creating emotional atmospheres, a hallmark of Philips Lighting's expertise. For instance, smart lighting can simulate occupancy when homeowners are away, enhancing security, or gently wake children upstairs, adding convenience.
As the smart home market continues to grow in China, Philips Lighting remains bullish about its prospects. The launch of the "Philips Show" brand in China underscores their commitment to tapping into this burgeoning market. Despite the current fragmentation, there is immense potential for smart home technologies to become ubiquitous in households nationwide.
Looking ahead, both Philips Lighting and Zhai Speakers recognize the importance of cross-industry collaborations. Smart speakers cannot succeed without robust partnerships with home brands, while smart homes must embrace multiple platforms to thrive. Manufacturers are not just competing in the smart speaker market but are investing in holistic smart home ecosystems.
To summarize, the synergy between smart speakers and smart homes represents a natural evolution in consumer technology. By fostering deeper integrations and expanding functionalities, stakeholders can unlock greater value and drive adoption. Whether as an entry point for smart homes or standalone devices, smart speakers will continue to evolve alongside innovations in connectivity and AI.
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