Matter 1.4 unites competing wireless networks and helps with energy transition
The new version of Matter can be used to integrate WLAN routers, mesh thread networks and control heat pumps and battery storage systems.
Matter 1.4 focuses on the interaction of thread networks. Until now, each manufacturer has woven its own. A standardized exchange of access data should change this.
(Image: Berti Kolbow-Lehradt)
The Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) has added new devices and functions to the Matter communication protocol in line with the six-monthly cycle. Matter is intended to facilitate the setup and operation of smart home devices from various brands under the umbrella of higher-level platforms such as Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home and Samsung SmartThings. In version 1.4, the standard learns new skills to improve the interaction between different hardware control centers, wireless networks and apps. New device types and functions are also expanding energy management.
So that Thread networks and Matter apps get along better
In order to reduce the need for wireless switching centers, the CSA has created a new central device category called Home Routers and Access Points (HRAP). In addition to WLAN network components, it also includes modems and set-top boxes.
The concept makes it easier for manufacturers to integrate thread radio, which is accepted by Matter, into routers in addition to WLAN. Previously, separate thread border routers were required, for example in the form of smart speakers. In addition, the major Matter platforms span their own competing Thread networks. This means that the mesh function of the wireless protocol cannot be used optimally. HRAP devices are intended to change this. They contain a directory that standardizes the exchange of access data to networks from different manufacturers.
Videos by heise
Together with the hardware switching centers, the software user interfaces of the Matter platforms form the core of a setup. The expanded multi-admin function is designed to make it easier to control devices with two or more of them in parallel. Previously, each device had to be transferred individually from one platform to another. With Matter 1.4, a single authorization is enough to bundle all existing devices and automatically pass on devices that are added later.
Manage battery storage and heat pumps with Matter
Matter has been able to record energy consumption with sockets and control car charging systems since version 1.3 was released in May 2024. The update to 1.4 adds further device types and functions that enable load control instead of just measuring and switching.
Anyone who converts solar energy into electricity at home can integrate inverters, panel arrays and battery storage systems into the Matter setup. The standard now also supports heat pumps and water heaters. In future, e-cars can be charged at a specified target time. Radiator thermostats will also be time-controlled, including operating settings for presence and absence.
The CSA has not announced when and which manufacturers intend to implement the new specifications. Because the standard is considered complex to integrate and each version update requires a new certificate, experience has shown that it can take up to a year for new features to be implemented in practice.
(mack)
