The smart home interoperability protocol Matter wants to be the standard for connecting all your devices. It uses the existing Wi-Fi and Thread protocols, but it also adds a lot of extras like low-power mesh networking that lets all your devices talk to each other without relying on the cloud. Matter devices can also be updated over-the-air to add new functionality.
That means you can use one Matter app to set up routines and automations for devices from different manufacturers that wouldn’t otherwise work together. You’ll still need a platform to manage the language that Matter devices speak to each other, though. You’ll be able to choose between the major platforms that have already pledged support for Matter.
At launch, Matter will only work with a limited number of device categories: light bulbs and fixtures, smart plugs and switches, smart thermostats and other HVAC controls, smart sensors, connected locks and media devices like TVs. It doesn’t include home security systems, though some companies have promised to bring those into the fold in future.
Most of the companies supporting Matter have already announced plans to upgrade their existing products to make them compatible. For example, Eve’s earlier line of security and sensor products will have Matter support in 2022, while GE Cync products will get Matter updates this year. And Amazon has said it will update its Echo Shows, Dots and Flexes to become Matter-over-Wi-Fi compatible in spring 2023.
Many older devices that don’t support Matter will be able to come to the party later on through bridges or hubs. For example, the Homey Pro hub ($399, slated for February 2023) will act as a Matter-over-Zigbee bridge, and a few Z-Wave hubs like Philips Hue’s M1S and M2 hubs have been promised to add Matter support in the future. matter residences