The Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) has recently announced the release of the latest Matter 1.4 standard, introducing a series of "epic" enhancements aimed at improving interoperability and compatibility among smart home devices. This update promises a smoother and more seamless user experience for smart home enthusiasts.
Based on the official Matter 1.4 update, HOPERF has summarized six major improvements:
Matter 1.4: Eliminating "Islands" and Preventing Network Fragmentation
With Matter 1.4, home routers, modems, access points, and set-top boxes (collectively referred to as HRAP) can now obtain Matter certification through development or upgrades, providing a more stable and reliable network foundation.
Matter 1.4: Simplified Management and Unified Ecosystem Control
One standout feature of Matter 1.4 is its enhanced Multi-Admin functionality. This allows users to manage all smart home devices across different ecosystems from a unified interface without losing functionality. Users can now control their devices with various platform apps without needing to switch ecosystems.
Matter 1.4: Smarter Energy Management
The Matter 1.4 standard extends support to more device types, with a key focus on energy management. While Matter 1.3 introduced energy reporting for large appliances and EV chargers, Matter 1.4 expands this to include devices like solar panels, batteries, heat pumps, and water heaters.
This update also enhances energy management capabilities for EV chargers, thermostats, and other devices, paving the way for smarter, more automated home energy management.
Matter 1.4: Fixed Switches and Adjustable Load Controllers
Matter 1.4 introduces two new device types: fixed switches and adjustable load controllers. These are specifically designed for wall-mounted smart devices that supply power to connected equipment, addressing previous limitations in user interface and automation flexibility.
Matter 1.4: Improved Occupancy Sensor Features
The Matter 1.4 update enhances sensor functionality, supporting technologies like radar, visual, and environmental sensing. Customizable sensitivity settings are also introduced, providing a more precise and adaptive smart home experience while laying the groundwork for future sensing technologies.
Matter 1.4: Advancements for Battery-Powered Devices
For devices like switches, buttons, and sensors that operate with intermittent connections (ICDs), Matter 1.4 enhances core functionality. Updates to the Long Idle Time (LIT) protocol and improvements to the Check-in protocol optimize battery life and communication efficiency.
With the groundbreaking features introduced in Matter 1.4, HOPERF firmly believes this standard will not remain a lofty vision on paper but will spark a revolutionary transformation in smart home technology. Matter 1.4 is poised to become the catalyst for the comprehensive integration of smart home devices, ushering in an unprecedented era of seamless connectivity.
We are poised to witness an unprecedented event in the interconnectedness of smart home devices.
