How to Set Up Your Philips Hue Motion Sensor

Beginner 10-15 minutes

What You'll Need

  • Philips Hue Motion Sensor
  • Philips Hue Bridge (required)
  • Philips Hue app (iOS/Android)
  • Hue lights already set up

Step-by-Step Setup

  1. Pull battery tab: Remove the isolation tab to power on
  2. Open Hue app: Go to Settings → Accessories
  3. Add accessory: Tap "Add accessory" → "Hue motion sensor"
  4. Sensor discovery: App will find the sensor
  5. Assign to room: Choose which room the sensor is in
  6. Configure behavior: Set what lights turn on and brightness levels
  7. Set time-based rules: Different behaviors for day/night
  8. Mount sensor: Use magnetic mount or included screws

Key Features

  • Motion detection: Triggers Hue lights automatically
  • Light sensor: Measures ambient light (lux)
  • Temperature sensor: Also measures room temperature
  • Day/night modes: Different settings based on time
  • Adjustable sensitivity: Configure in Hue app
  • Battery powered: 2x AAA, lasts about 2 years

Troubleshooting

  • Lights turn on during day: Enable "Only when dark" in motion settings
  • Not detecting motion: Check battery. Adjust sensitivity in app
  • Wrong lights turn on: Check room assignment in Hue app
  • Works with HomeKit: Appears in Apple Home via Hue Bridge
  • Reset: Remove batteries, press setup button, reinsert batteries