The Connectivity Standards Alliance has introduced Matter version 1.2, offering device manufacturers and platforms a fresh set of features and tools.
This update brings nine new device types, core enhancements to the specification and software development kit (SDK), and certification and testing aids.
Nine New Device Types: Enhancing Interoperability with Matter 1.2
- Refrigerators: In Matter 1.2, support for refrigerators extends beyond temperature control, encompassing deep freezers and specialized fridges like wine and kimchi storage.
- Room Air Conditioners: Independent Room Air Conditioners, with temperature and fan mode control, are now supported, expanding HVAC functionality.
- Dishwashers: Dishwashers now feature remote start, progress notifications, and alarms for issues like water supply and drain problems.
- Laundry Washers: This update includes progress notifications for laundry washers, with support for dryers in future releases.
- Robotic Vacuums: Beyond remote start and progress notifications, Matter 1.2 supports advanced features such as cleaning modes and additional status details.
- Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms: These alarms now offer notifications, audio and visual signaling, and battery status alerts, with carbon monoxide alarms providing concentration sensing.
- Air Quality Sensors: Supported sensors can capture a wide range of air quality data, enabling devices to provide AQI information based on their location.
- Air Purifiers: Air purifiers in Matter 1.2 offer information from Air Quality Sensors and include consumable resource monitoring for filter status.
- Fans: Matter 1.2 introduces support for fans as a separate device type, incorporating various movement modes and airflow adjustments.
Other Improvements
The Matter specification, SDK, and certification program are continually evolving, thanks to contributions from smart home engineers and experts. Core improvements in Matter 1.2 include:
- Latch & Bolt Door Locks: Enhancements for European markets.
- Device Appearance: Devices can describe their color and finish.
- Device & Endpoint Composition: Allows accurate modeling of complex devices.
- Semantic Tags: Describe the location and function of Matter clusters.
- Generic Device Operational States: Expresses device modes in a generic way.
SDK & Test Harness Enhancements
Matter 1.2 brings vital enhancements to testing and certification, benefiting the developer community:
- New Platform Support in SDK: Expands development opportunities.
- Enhancements to the Matter Test Harness: Now open source, making it easier for developers to contribute and ensure compatibility.
Availability
Matter 1.2 is now accessible to device and app manufacturers worldwide. The company expects new Matter products to come to market, making existing products Matter-enabled.
In 2024, the company plans to expand further and release two more updates, introducing new device types and areas of application.