What is Matter?

What is Matter?

Matter is a new, open-source connectivity standard developed by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), a group including Apple, Google, Amazon, and hundreds of other companies. Essentially, it’s designed to solve the biggest problem in the smart home: devices from different brands often don't talk to each other.


How Does it Work?

  • Based on Thread & Wi-Fi Hybrid: Matter utilizes a combination of technologies:
    • Thread: A low-power, mesh networking protocol. Thread is designed for reliable, low-bandwidth communication – perfect for sensors and devices that don’t need constant data streaming. It’s inherently secure and robust.
    • Wi-Fi: Used for higher bandwidth applications like streaming video from security cameras.
  • IP-Based: All devices connected via Matter communicate using IP addresses, making them accessible over the internet.
  • Secure Element: A secure chip within the device ensures data integrity and prevents unauthorized access.
  • Profiles: Matter defines "profiles" for different types of devices (lighting, thermostats, door locks, etc.) outlining how they should behave and communicate.

How Does it Differ from Competing Standards?

Let’s compare Matter to the main contenders:


Feature
Matter
Amazon Sidewalk
Google Home/Works
Apple HomeKit
Foundation
Thread & Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Mesh Networking
Yes (Thread)
No
No
No
Security
Strong (Secure Element)
Moderate
Moderate
Strong (Apple Ecosystem)
Interoperability
Designed for it!
Limited
Limited
Limited
Ecosystem
Open, Multi-Platform
Amazon-Centric
Google-Centric
Apple-Centric
Ease of Use
Improving
Relatively Simple
Relatively Simple
Relatively Simple

 

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

  • Matter vs. Amazon Sidewalk: Sidewalk uses Amazon’s existing Wi-Fi network to connect devices. While easy to set up, it’s a single-brand network, raising privacy concerns and limiting interoperability. Matter’s Thread network is decentralized and more secure.
  • Matter vs. Google Home/Works: Google’s system relies heavily on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. While convenient for Google users, it’s less robust and doesn’t offer the same level of security or interoperability as Matter.
  • Matter vs. Apple HomeKit: HomeKit is known for its strong security and tight integration with the Apple ecosystem. However, it’s a closed ecosystem, meaning it’s primarily designed to work with Apple devices. Matter aims to break down these barriers.

Why is Matter a Big Deal?

  • Open Standard: Unlike proprietary systems, Matter is open source, meaning anyone can contribute to its development.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: It’s designed to work with devices from all major brands – Apple, Google, Amazon, and more.
  • Future-Proof: As the smart home landscape continues to evolve, Matter is positioned to be a key standard for years to come.

Important Note: Matter is still relatively new. While adoption is growing, it will take time for all devices to fully support the standard.

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