New update turns your Google Nest into a Matter control hub
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It’s taken a while, but we’re finally seeing the Matter standard rolling out to various smart home devices. And this time it’s coming to a Google Nest near you.
Eight devices in total will get the update and all will double as central hubs to control other Matter gadgets, according to the announcement. (opens in new tab) You have the original Google home speaker, Home Mini, Nest Mini, Nest audioNest Hub (first and second generation), Nest Hub Max, and the Nest Wifi Pro. Matter-supporting devices can connect to any of the eight via Wi-Fi or Thread, a wireless standard that provides a “low-power connection.” In fact, the second-gen Nest Hub, Hub Max, and WiFi Pro are also getting an update that allows them to serve as Thread Border routers to control other Thread devices. In addition, Fast Pair on Android will be updated to allow mobile devices to quickly connect to Matter.
However, there are some requirements for Android phones. A company representative told us that mobile devices must have Android 8.1 and above and Google Play Services version 22.48.14 to work with the new standard. Nest owners don’t have to do anything, though. The firmware update that adds Matter support will install automatically.
Future Promises
Since Matter is still in its infancy, there aren’t many devices that support it yet, but that will soon change from 2023 when Google has plans to expand (opens in new tab) the standard. Google confirmed to TechRadar two such updates: the Nest thermostat and Nest Wi-Fi. The tech giant also states that it is currently working with various “partners from across the industry [like Eve, Nanoleaf, and Philips Hue] to ensure that more smart home devices work with Matter.” And early next year we will begin to see the fruits of their labor.
Samsung is also currently working on updating Matter’s Multi-Admin tool for an easier onboarding experience. In 2023, the Google Home app will have the ability to recognize “Matter devices set up via the SmartThing app” on Android. Thus, users do not have to connect smart home devices one by one. It can all be done in one fell swoop. And speaking of Google Home, the iOS version will also get Matter support next year.
Building a smart home
The choice may be small, but you do have a number of choices. Eve, who we mentioned earlier, recently rolled out a firmware update (opens in new tab) Add Matter support for several products, such as the Energy Smart Plug and a few motion sensors. Back early NovemberSignify launched a set of Christmas lights under the Philips Hue brand for the new standard.
If you’re looking for a smart home system but don’t know where to start, check out TechRadar’s recently updated list of best home security cameras for 2023.