Smart lighting is evolving in a direction that raises both convenience and privacy questions. Lepro has introduced its new AI Lighting Pro series, which integrates microphones directly into the power cord of its smart lights — eliminating the need for a separate smart speaker or hub for voice control.
How It Works
The Lepro AI Lighting Pro series embeds a microphone into the power cable of each light fixture. This allows users to control their lights with voice commands without relying on an external smart speaker like an Amazon Echo or Google Nest. The integration is seamless — plug in the light, connect it to your Wi-Fi network, and voice control is immediately available.
This design choice eliminates a common friction point in smart home setups: the need for a central hub or companion speaker to process voice commands. For users looking to add voice-controlled lighting to a room that does not already have a smart speaker, this approach simplifies the setup process considerably.
Capabilities and Features
The AI Lighting Pro series supports standard voice commands for power, brightness adjustment, and color changes. The built-in microphones are designed to listen for wake words and commands, functioning similarly to the voice assistants found in dedicated smart speakers. The lights can be grouped and controlled individually through the companion app, offering flexibility in how rooms are lit.
Privacy Considerations
The inclusion of always-listening microphones in lighting fixtures raises understandable privacy concerns. Lepro states that voice data is processed according to standard industry practices, with options for users to review and delete voice recordings through the app. The microphones are activated only after hearing the wake word, similar to how smart speakers operate.
For privacy-conscious users, the companion app includes a physical indicator light that shows when the microphone is actively listening. Additionally, the microphone can be disabled entirely through the app if voice control is not needed.
The Bigger Picture
Lepro’s approach represents a broader trend in the smart home industry: embedding intelligence directly into devices rather than relying on centralized hubs. This reduces complexity but also means that more devices in the home are capable of audio monitoring. As this trend continues, manufacturers will need to balance convenience features with transparent privacy practices to maintain consumer trust.
The AI Lighting Pro series is currently rolling out through select retailers, with additional models expected to launch in the coming months.
