Research

Philips has a long history of breakthrough innovation. The company began in lighting and founded its first research lab in 1914. Applying its technical knowledge to healthcare, Philips introduced a medical X-ray tube in 1918. This marked the point when the company began to diversify its product range and to systematically protect its innovations with patents in areas stretching from X-ray radiation to radio reception. Along the way, we've been responsible for some truly ground-breaking discoveries and standards, such as the Rotalix X-ray tube, the high-pressure mercury lamp, the triple-headed dry electric razor, the Compact Cassette, the Brilliance 40-slice CT scanner, CD, DVD, Ambilight TV, and more recent innovations such as the AirFloss, Lumify portable ultrasound, and the all-digital Vereos PET/CT scanner.

In the spotlight

Improving people’s lives by delivering meaningful innovation
 

We put people at the center of our work, responding to their aspirations, needs and desires while constantly achieving better energy efficiency and higher levels of sustainability. This approach has led to more than a century of breakthrough innovations.
Open innovation

Open innovation


In line with our open innovation strategy Philips Research works closely with global academic and industrial partners to meet people’s needs. By combining innovative forces a greater number of innovations are more effective and find a faster way to the market.

Are you an innovator? If you have an idea you would like to share with Philips, visit our Simply Innovate portal
Recent innovation

A history of innovation


Thanks to this approach, we surprise people with groundbreaking innovations for over 100 years; from lamps and radios to medical equipment, electric shavers, televisions and semiconductors. Our broad portfolio of patents is a clear proof of our innovative character.

Find out more about our history of innovation
Our people

Our people


Creativity and interdisciplinary teams are at the heart of Research. Our people are inspired by a sustainable world, driven by our strategy and insights in unmet needs.

Find out what it's like to work at Philips Research

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