Matter update 1.1 doesn’t add any new device types, which improves support for battery-powered devices but also makes it easier for developers to create Matter-compatible devices. In context, this update doesn’t fix the lack of support for some key device types, such as security cameras, which are not supported by the Matter standard.
This standard allows smart home devices from different companies to work together. After the launch, it rapidly grew but has been slowing down in recent months, and it only has a few security cameras that support Matter. Companies may add new device support with future updates, but it’s still unclear when more security cameras will support Matter.
Matter to Improve Smart Home Connectivity Standard
This will make it easier for different devices to work together. It was officially launched last fall, improving the smart home device experience across platforms. The Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) includes Apple and developers and includes changes and improvements for developers and end-users to get started with Matter and complete certification.
Companies, including Amazon and Google, need to adopt the Matter Standard faster. However, Apple has announced that it will add Matter support to its more popular devices, mainly to be announced as HomeKit devices, and increase Matter Support at WWDC 2023. There is a significant gap in the smart home ecosystem, as there currently needs to be more support for security cameras. Until more devices are added, users can use HomeKit-enabled security cameras.
Apart from changes and improvements to make it easier for developers to get started with Matter and complete certification, which means end-users have a better experience with battery-powered devices, CSA shared a detailed report about Matter 1.1, where they said it is the result of the collective efforts of hundreds of companies and individuals to improve the patch’s future for developers and new users’ experiences.
What’s New with Matter 1.1?
The company said it would only release two major updates twice a year. The first version was delivered, and the next version will be released later this year.
- It is easier for device makers and developers to start with Matter and for different devices to work together.
- It is easier to certify products and get them to users faster.
- Enhanced battery life for battery-operated devices.
- Devices will now report being offline less often, making it easier for developers to optimize their products and create a better user experience.
- The device now includes contacts, motion, temperature sensors, door locks, and switches.
- More than 1,135 devices have downloaded the specification more than 17,991 times, which is a healthy sign for Matter, certified by CSA.
- It is easier for developers to understand and use the specifications. CSA has taken feedback from members and early developers to roll out 1.1.
- Improved guidance for supporting new devices, including clarification and clean-up of the specification.
- Improved testing and automation make it easier for developers to contribute support for new devices and testing automation to improve getting product certification. There are also enhanced Authorised Testing Laboratories (ATLs).