Imagine a lamp that doesn't just change colors, but takes you on a mesmerizing journey through hues, transforming your space with every shift. That's the magic IKEA has captured with its latest innovation, a smart upgrade to its beloved 'donut lamp.' Unveiled at CES 2026, the IKEA Varmblixt is poised to become a must-have for anyone craving both style and smart functionality in their home lighting. But here's where it gets intriguing: this isn't just about flipping a switch. It's about experiencing light as a dynamic element, one that evolves seamlessly, creating an ambiance that adapts to your mood and space.
Designed in collaboration with Dutch artist and designer Sabine Marcelis, the Varmblixt lamp now boasts color-changing and dimming capabilities, all controllable remotely. Available as both a wall light and a table lamp, it retails for $99 and will hit the shelves in April 2026. But what truly sets it apart is its ability to transition between colors with a smoothness that feels almost poetic. As Marcelis explains, 'We spent a lot of time fine-tuning the transitions between the curated colors. What makes this lamp unique is that switching between colors is not a sudden change, but a very smooth journey through all the hues to get to the next color. The light slowly moves through color, in turn transforming the color of a space.'
And this is the part most people miss: the Varmblixt doesn't just offer 12 preset colors; when paired with the IKEA Home Smart app, it unlocks over 40 shades, allowing you to customize both the hue and intensity. It’s like having a personal lighting designer at your fingertips. Plus, the entire line is built on the Matter standard, ensuring seamless integration with your existing smart home setup.
But wait, there’s more. IKEA is also launching a smart version of its $149 Varmblixt pendant light, which focuses on transitioning between shades of white light. Whether you control it via the included remote or as part of your smart home ecosystem, it promises to elevate any space with its subtle yet impactful lighting.
Here’s the controversial part: With IKEA’s recent announcement of 21 new smart home gadgets, it’s clear the brand is doubling down on the smart home market. But is this a natural evolution for a furniture giant, or a risky move into an already crowded space? And does the Varmblixt’s focus on smooth color transitions justify its price tag, or is it just a gimmick for the tech-savvy?
We’ll be among the first to test the new Varmblixt lights ahead of their April 2026 release, so stay tuned for our hands-on review. In the meantime, we want to hear from you: Do you think smart lighting is the future of home decor, or just a passing trend? Let us know in the comments below!
For more updates on the latest in home tech, follow Tom's Guide on Google News and add us as a preferred source. And if you’re curious about other innovations, check out our coverage of IKEA’s tiny USB-C charger, Govee’s new smart lights, and how a smart light strip can transform your living room. Millie, our Managing Editor of Homes, has been at the forefront of home tech reviews for over five years, testing everything from air fryers to vacuum cleaners. With her expertise in cookware and kitchen appliances, she’s your go-to source for all things home innovation. When she’s not reporting, you’ll find her jamming to live music or strumming her Fender guitar. Don’t forget to confirm your public display name before joining the conversation!
