The Connectivity Standards Alliance, which includes leading technology companies such as Apple, Amazon and Google, has announced the launch of “Matter”, a new interoperable and secure connectivity standard, designed for devices aimed at the “smart home”.
Also on the board are companies like IKEA, Legrand, NXP Semiconductors, Resideo, Schneider Electric, Signify, Silicon Labs, Somfy, and Wulian. In addition, there are more than 180 organizations of all sizes, in all types of business categories, and more than 1.700 individual members participating in the implementation of Matter specifications, reference implementations, testing tools and certification programs. .
Formerly known as “Project CHIP”, Matter is a unified IP-based protocol that will be used to build and connect Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystems or perhaps, jokingly, “those things on the Internet”).
It is royalty-free and allows communication between a wide range of smart devices, as well as acting as a seal of approval that ensures that the items used by this protocol are safe, reliable and compatible.
Matter ensures that “smart” devices are compatible with connected home and voice services such as Amazon Alexa, HomeKit, Google Assistant, SmartThings and more. The first Matter specification is compatible with existing technologies such as Ethernet, WiFi, Thread and Bluetooth Low Energy. The material has been designed with the following characteristics:
- Simplicity - Easy to buy and use. Simplify connected experiences.
- Interoperability - Devices from various brands work together natively.
- Reliability - Consistent and responsive local connectivity [efficiently].
- Security: Use secure connections. Robust and advanced for developers and users.
- Flexibility - Matter makes it easy for users to configure and control their devices with multiple ecosystems at the same time.
The first devices with the Matter seal could be launched in late 2021, and smart home device manufacturers are making light bulbs, sockets, thermostats, locks, sensors, blinds, TVs and more with the Matter specification.
