March 2023 update:
Just a quick update to say that I can't remember the last time the app got stuck or failed to connect. It takes just a second to get in touch with the lights, but is every bit as reliable as I'd hope it to be at this point. Kudos to the folks at GE for sticking with this product.
As a side note for people with adhesive struggles, the 3M velcro command strips I hung these with almost two years ago are still holding steady. They're the stiff, white, plasticy kind, not the soft fabric velcro. I've got about 16" total, cut into 2" pieces and spread out behind two of these 80" light strips.
January 2022 update:
I'm raising this a few stars. The app still gets stuck more often than I'd like, but it's much more reliable than it used to be.
Based on my positive experience with the remote from this line in another installation, I picked up one of the cync dimmer/color temp remotes and it's smoothed out the problems with everyday use. I use that remote to control them in white mode most of the time, which makes them really reliable and versatile.
The app is still required to use RGB lighting, and it still isn't perfect, but it's much less hassle than it used to be, especially with some presets configured. Once RGB colors are set, a remote (not included) can be used to turn them on/off or dim them, and tapping the color temp control on a remote will quickly reset all connected lights to white. You'll need to use the app again to get back to any other color.
I'm using a different phone now, so I can't comment on whether or not they've solved the undersized screen issue, but it sounded like they were working on it, at least.
With the caveat that you may want to consider a remote to go with them, I find these easier to recommend now than I did originally. I've been really happy with them, barring the occasional frustration changing RGB modes in the app.
Original July 2021 review:
One strip of these is enough to light up a 10'x10' room like a doctor's exam room, but they can also be dimmed nice and low for great mood lighting in a huge variety of colors. There is a big range of white tones and they all look great. I'm particularly fond of the "Early Morning" setting. Colors are fun, and if you have two devices, you can throw contrasting colors on different sides of a room for a really cool effect. They're great little lights, and I'd love to give them a good review, but the app hamstrings them something fierce.
They updated it recently, and I don't know if the old one was any better, but this one is miserable. Connection to the devices is constantly failing, causing in-app controls to be unresponsive, or even to just reset themselves after input. Do you like flipping a light switch 15 times before the light turns on? Because that's the game you're playing with this one. The color selection screen is great when it works, but repeatedly greys out with "Unavailable," or just doesn't do anything. It's really frustrating and makes these things impossible to recommend, despite that they look nice and should be really easy to use (no hub is great!).
For what it's worth, I have an outdoor smart plug and a remote from this same line that are working great, but those don't need the app after initial setup.
A couple other nitpicks:
- The physical power button is attached to the end of the strip by a 5" cable, which means it can be tricky to reach, or to hide, depending on where you're putting this thing. You wouldn't need it if the app worked but, as is, this could be an issue for some.
- The adhesive tape on the back is listed by 3M as permanent (one suggested use is attaching architectural panels) and the instructions warn that it is likely to damage surfaces on removal. I didn't want a permanent installation, as I suspect many won't, so I tediously removed this by rolling it off with my thumbs. Some 3M velcro command strips, placed every 8" inches or so, worked great in its place. A more moderate mounting option out of the box would be much better, in my opinion.
- The app, in addition to just not working most of the time, doesn't resize its UI for small screens. There is a workaround if you're zoomed in on a large phone, but if your screen is physically smaller (like an iPhone SE) then controls the right side of the screen will not be accessible. This means you will not be able to change light colors, setup scenes, etc. on some devices.
I will be glad to update my review if and when the app is fixed.
| Color | Black, Blue |
|---|---|
| Brand | Cync |
| Indoor/Outdoor Usage | Indoor |
| Special Feature | color_changing, dimmable |
| Light Source Type | LED |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Light Color | Multicolor |
| Theme | Video Game Lighting; Backlighting; Mood Light; TV Back Light; Party Decor |
| Occasion | LED Lighting |
| Style | Indoor |
| Material | Plastic |
| Color Temperature | 2700 Kelvin |
| Controller Type | App Control, Voice Control |
| Connectivity Protocol | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Number of Light Sources | 1 |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Wattage | 22.2 watts |
| Included Components | One (1) GE CYNC Smart Light Strip and Power Cord |
| Item Weight | 1.1 Pounds |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 2.36 x 7.08 x 5.91 inches |
| Control Method | Voice |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Manufacturer | GE Lighting |
| Part Number | 93128989 |
| Item Weight | 1.05 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 2.36 x 7.08 x 5.91 inches |
| Item model number | 93128989 |
| Size | 80 Inches |
| Pattern | Lights |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Number Of Pieces | 1 |
| Luminous Flux | 800 Lumen |
| Coverage | 80 Inches |
| Special Features | color_changing, dimmable |
| Usage | Backlight, Light Show, Under Cabinet Light |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
| Warranty Description | Limited. |
