The latest IoT standard, Matter, is getting another update, which brings us to version 1.3. The latest iteration introduces support for new types of devices, enhanced capabilities and improvements to the overall user experience.
Scenes are finally supported by Matter
Perhaps the most anticipated feature arriving to Matter standard is support for scenes, a feature that enables users to create a desired state of multiple settings for devices, rooms or even the entire home with one command. With Matter update 1.3, support can be added to set, read and activate different scenes. Smart home device and platform brands will now be able to allow more customization options for users via the Matter standard and open up wider acceptance for more devices.
Matter 1.3 is now kitchen-ready
In addition to scene support to Matter for smart lights, version 1.3 brings home appliances including microwaves, ovens, cooktops, and dryers to the standard. The ability to control cooking time, power and notifications will be some of the options available for microwaves. Matter 1.2 added laundry washers as a supported device, but 1.3 brings the rest of the laundry room into the fold.
Govee smart light bulbs offer simple connectivity and vibrant colors.
TV and streaming will become more seamless
Matter 1.3 also brings improvements to casting to media players and managing things like notifications to TVs to make a more seamless experience. The version change includes many updates to how developers work with the protocol including improvements to network commissioning, extended beaconing period, and more.
Many of the top smart speakers and smart displays already support Matter allowing you to quickly bring devices into your Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Apple Home Kit setups easily. The expansion of supported devices and improved features will continue to help the smart home segment become more approachable and hopefully require fewer apps on our phones.
