The Almond 3 does not recognize them directly. It would be sweet if they did! There is an "Add Bulb" button, but it immediately goes to adding a hue bridge first. The bulb is very near the Almond 3 so distance isn't an issue. I do have the latest firmware. I have two CREE bulbs but for the $15 each they are basically dumb lights without the Almond 3 supporting them directly.
Ashok, any direct support for the CREE bulbs now or future?