The future of home automation is already entering the Apple ecosystem. HomeKit accessory makers are already starting to release firmware updates that adapt devices to Matter, the new standard that aims to standardize communications between devices and make them much more compatible with each other.
Maybe this surprised you, so let’s see what it is. what to do if you encounter the update notice in some manufacturer applications. Don’t worry, understanding what is going on is very simple.
We have already seen the two basic concepts that must be clearly differentiated: Wire and Material. The first is a communication protocol (like Wi-Fi networks), while the second is a standard home automation communication system. thanks to you two we will gain speed when using these accessories and compatibility
What is it starting to look like? Well, for example, Google is already starting to release Android updates that include compatibility with Matter. Amazon has just updated its Echo. Eve, maker of a slew of HomeKit-enabled accessories, does the same with its Eve Motion, Eve Energy, and Eve Door & Window. In the latter case, compatibility with Thread has also been ready for two years. You might see something like this if you open the Eve app:
If you accept the update (which we recommend), your Eve accessories will become compatible with Matter. Th is does not affect your HomeKit setup or installation
Apple has also done its homework: iOS 16.2 and other equivalent versions of the rest of the systems are ready for the standard. It is therefore to be expected that manufacturers will gradually update both their applications and the firmware of your accessories.
When time passes and all accessories have been updated (some older ones won’t due to limitations in their MaterialI guess), we should start noticing the benefits of Matter. We will no longer need to search for the HomeKit logo in the boxes of home automation accessories: just read that they are prepared for Mater.
And when it comes to Thread, we don’t have to overdo it either: if we have a HomePod mini or one of the new Apple TV 4Ks with an Ethernet port, we’re ready to use this communication protocol at home. . Let’s update and wait, because the future of home automation at Apple goes through more accessories and more facilities.
Imagen | Kendall Ruth