Philips is taking LED lighting to an interactive level...

Philips is taking LED lighting to an interactive level with a seven-bulb portable lighting fixture designed to let users change the color of their decor on a whim using ambient light. Called LivingColors, the circular, acrylic-encased device plugs into a wall outlet and is programmable through a remote control with a built-in color wheel that enables users to project light onto walls or ceilings for dramatic effect. The device can create up to 16 million colors, which users select via the color wheel. Bulbs are not replaceable, a spokeswoman said, but are projected to last for thousands of hours of use. Suggested retail price is $209 and the product is slated for delivery in August. Philips launched the device in the U.S. this week at the Holiday Gift Guide Show in New York. The company also showed a wearable activity monitor/MP3 player announced at CES that’s due for release June 1. The player is sold loaded with songs geared to workouts, and users can add their own music. A built-in accelerometer tracks users’ daily activity, and when the device is plugged into a PC via USB, the information is loaded into the Philips Direct Life personal fitness program. The program offers fitness tips, a personal coach to help people set fitness goals, and advice about lifestyle changes. Best Buy, Target and other retailers will sell the device with four weeks of Web access and coaching at $129 list. Users can continue the fitness program for $13 a month.