What Matter is
Matter is an application protocol developed by the Connectivity Standards Alliance. Its aim is for devices and platforms from different makers to understand each other without a separate app for each. It runs over IP, so it is not a new radio protocol.
Transports
- Wi-Fi — for mains-powered devices and heavier traffic.
- Thread — for small and battery devices (a border router is needed).
- Ethernet — for fixed devices and gateways.
- Bluetooth LE — only during first setup, not in operation.
Adding a device
The phone scans a QR code or takes a code from the device. Wi-Fi or Thread credentials are passed over Bluetooth, then the device receives a certificate in your network. After that communication is direct and local.
Fabrics and multi-admin
One device can belong to several fabrics at once, for example Apple Home, Google Home and Home Assistant. Each platform has its own rights and keys, and the device does not have to be re-added for each.
Data model
Devices are described by nodes, endpoints and clusters, similar to Zigbee. Device types include light, plug, thermostat, lock, sensor, blind and others. New versions of the specification add more types.
Local control
The main command does not go through the cloud. That means less delay and operation without internet. The cloud remains for remote access and notifications.
Bridges
A Matter bridge presents devices of another protocol (for example Zigbee or Z-Wave) as Matter devices, so an existing network does not have to be replaced all at once.
Things to keep in mind
- Not every device type is supported by every platform.
- Which features work depends on the Matter version.
- Thread devices require a border router in the network.
