Matter smart home connectivity standard
Matter is a new, open-source connectivity standard for smart home and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. It is designed to improve compatibility and security between devices from different manufacturers. Matter is based on the Internet Protocol (IP), which is the same technology that powers the internet and home networks. This means that Matter devices can communicate with each other directly, without the need for a proprietary hub or bridge.
Matter was developed by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), a consortium of over 300 companies, including Amazon, Apple, Google, and Samsung. The CSA was formed in 2019 to create a unified smart home standard that would make it easier for consumers to choose and use compatible devices.
Matter devices are expected to start hitting the market in late 2022. In the meantime, many existing smart home devices can be updated with firmware to support Matter.
Benefits of Matter
There are several benefits to using Matter-compatible smart home devices:
Compatibility: Matter devices from different manufacturers can communicate with each other directly, without the need for a proprietary hub or bridge. This makes it easier and more affordable to build a smart home system.
Security: Matter is designed with security in mind. It uses a variety of security measures to protect devices and data from unauthorized access.
Choice: Matter gives consumers more choices when it comes to smart home devices. They can choose devices from different manufacturers and know that they will work together seamlessly.
Innovation: Matter makes it easier for manufacturers to develop new and innovative smart home products. They can focus on developing new features and functionality, without having to worry about compatibility.
How Matter works
Matter devices communicate with each other using a variety of wireless protocols, including Wi-Fi, Zigbee, and Thread. Matter devices also use a common language to communicate, which makes it possible for devices from different manufacturers to understand each other.
Matter devices can be controlled using a variety of methods, including smart home apps, voice assistants, and physical controls.
How to get started with Matter
To get started with Matter, you will need a smart home controller that supports Matter. Several smart home controllers, such as the Amazon Echo and Google Nest Hub, are expected to receive Matter updates in late 2022.
Once you have a Matter-compatible smart home controller, you can start adding Matter-compatible devices to your home. You can find Matter-compatible devices on the CSA website.
Conclusion
Matter is a new smart home connectivity standard that promises to make it easier and more affordable to build a smart home system. Matter devices start hitting the market in late 2022.
