US – As the Consumer Electronics Show 2023 kicks off in Las Vegas (5–8 January), there has been significant pre-event buzz around – not a new gadget or gaming device – but an open-source connectivity standard called Matter.
Interoperability between smart devices is a constant goal for tech brands and never more so than with smart home devices. From video doorbells to appliances, these devices are produced by multiple companies – and they often do not integrate seamlessly with each other securely.
Supported by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), formerly the Zigbee Alliance, Matter is a language and infrastructure platform through which multiple smart devices can communicate, and it is being developed by the likes of Amazon, Google, Samsung, Texas Instruments and Apple. For consumers, it means all devices can be set up and routed from one place. The first specification release of the Matter protocol will run on Wi-Fi and Thread network layers and will use Bluetooth Low Energy for wi-fi commissioning.
Once certification from CSA is finalised, Matter will enable companies to be faster to market – and the consumer market for smart devices will expand due to ease of use and greater interoperability. Explore more of our analysis about evolving domestic spaces in our Home and Family series.
Strategic opportunity
Consider how tech innovations that eliminate fragmentation could apply to your business and products; prepare for slicker smart home experiences and boosted consumer adoption