Matter 1.2 update brings the standard to fridges, ACs, and your robo-vacuum
It’s been about a year since Matter hit the smart home scene. As we approach its first anniversary, the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), the organization behind the standard, has launched version 1.2, introducing support for nine new device types and other improvements.
Currently, the CSA is focusing on the integration of home appliances, including but not limited to refrigerators, air conditioners, dishwashers, smoke detectors and robot vacuum cleaners. The update allows users to control key functions such as remotely starting dishwashers or the ability to monitor the temperature of a wine refrigerator. Additionally, the added support for air quality sensors allows the device to ‘capture and report’ any toxic gases in the environment, such as carbon dioxide. The full list of supporting hardware can be can be found on the CSA website.
Awaiting implementation
There’s one important caveat to all this: There isn’t currently a single smart home company whose products actively support Matter version 1.2. The organization essentially lays the groundwork for third parties to adopt the update when they are ready. The SDK (software development kit) is available for third-party developers to integrate into their devices.
The good news is that there are companies that have plans to implement the update. This is what appliance manufacturer Whirlpool says The edge that it will “roll out Matter across all its connected products across its brands.” Robot vacuum brand Roborock said Matter support is a “top priority”. Google and Amazon will also follow suit, but as mentioned in the same report, it will be a while before we see official support for version 1.2. Both brands have extensive smart home ranges, so it will take a long time to get every piece of hardware up to date.
New functions
In addition to the expansion, the CSA is adding some software features to Matter that will appear in smart home apps. Semantic tags have been added to provide a way to describe the location and function of devices on a network. In the example given, the tags can tell a homeowner what each button on a remote control does. Additionally, those same gadgets can broadcast their “color and finish,” making them stand out more in control apps.
The CSA also teased new Matter products and software patches launching later this fall. The organization then promises to roll out a few more updates in 2024 “that should add even more device types.” It is unknown what 2024 Matter will bring. However, it’s worth noting that no cameras support the standard, so it’s possible we could finally see Matter-enabled security cameras next year. Fingers crossed.
While we’re on the subject, check out TechRadar’s list of the best home security cameras for 2023.