The concept of «software-defined lighting» is emerging, where the functionality of a luminaire is determined more by its software than its fixed hardware. In this architecture, a standard, high-quality LED light engine is paired with a programmable driver and a robust software platform. Features like dimming curves, sensor response logic, emergency lighting functions, and communication protocols can be configured, updated, or completely changed via software updates long after installation. This future-proofs lighting installations, allowing them to adapt to new uses, updated building codes, or improved algorithms without requiring a physical retrofit. It enables a single luminaire SKU to serve multiple applications, simplifying inventory for manufacturers and distributors. This shift turns lighting into a flexible, upgradeable digital platform.
