The September IFA exhibition set the key direction for the development of IoT ecosystems for the coming years. The modern Matter Smart Home is finally shedding closed proprietary protocols, focusing on the energy-efficient Thread network and local, lag-free control.
New Generation of Devices: Aqara, Shelly, and Local Sensors
The main event of the exhibition was the announcement of updated product lines from Aqara and Shelly. Manufacturers introduced millimeter-wave (mmWave) presence sensors, smart relays, and light modules operating via the Matter over Thread protocol. This shift towards hardware energy efficiency continues an industry-wide trend that we explored when studying new architectural blocks of modern processors[cite: 6].
Why the Transition to Matter over Thread is Important for Users
- Full Cross-Platform Compatibility: A single device can be simultaneously added to Apple Home, Google Home, Yandex, and Home Assistant without using third-party workarounds or plugins.
- Local Operation Without the Cloud: Automation scenarios, button assignments, and relay operations are executed within the home network, even if the external internet cable is completely disconnected.
- Self-Healing Mesh Network: Each Thread power node extends signal coverage, reducing the power consumption of compact battery-powered sensors.
Standard Evolution: The Modern Matter Smart Home
Moving away from reliance on separate brand bridges makes building automations more accessible and reliable, transforming disparate gadgets into a cohesive infrastructure.
Source of Information: A consolidated report on the new generation specifications has been published on the specialized resource MatterAlpha.
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