A new alliance formed by Apple, Amazon, Signify and others has released a new standard expected to be used for connecting smart lighting products.

由苹果、亚马逊、谷歌等大型科技企业组成的新联盟（Connectivity Standards Alliance，以前称为Zigbee联盟），近日宣布了一个名叫“Matter”的连接标准，旨在提升智能家居设备的安全性和可互操作性。Matter标准能使智能设备能够无缝地协同工作。

MacRumors points out that Matter, originally named "Project CHIP," is an IP-based proprietary protocol for building and connecting IoT ecosystems. Thanks to its royalty-free policy, it encourages various IoT device manufacturers to work together securely and ensures the reliability of projects built on this standard.

(Source: Connectivity Standards Alliance)

For consumers who have deployed a large number of IoT devices in their homes, the new world dominated by Matter will allow them to fully enjoy the benefits brought by smart door locks, thermostats, smart speakers, and other devices.

In addition to easily adding new Matter-certified devices to the home network, businesses can also rely on a unified network to keep their operations running smoothly.

It is worth mentioning that Matter also ensures smart home devices are compatible with smart home/voice services such as Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings.

The first Matter specification to be implemented, already capable of running on existing network technologies (such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Thread, and Bluetooth Low Energy).

The following are key features that Matter considered from the outset of its design:

● Convenience – Easy to purchase and use, offering a simplified connection experience.

● Interoperability -- Devices from multiple brands can work together locally, providing greater compatibility.

● Reliability – Delivers a consistent and responsive local connection experience.

● Security – Maintains secure connections, providing developers and users with a robust and streamlined secure connection experience.

● Flexibility – Users can easily configure and control multiple devices within the ecosystem.

If all goes well, the first devices supporting the new Matter connectivity standard are expected to be released by the end of 2021. In addition, smart home device manufacturers are researching Matter-compatible smart products such as light bulbs, sockets, thermostats, door locks, sensors, curtains, and televisions.

Finally, early supporters of Matter include: Amazon, ASSA ABLOY, Comcast, Espressif Systems, Eve Systems, Google, Grundfos Holding A/S, Huawei, Infineon, LEEDARSON, Legrand, Nanoleaf, Nordic Semiconductor, NXP Semiconductors, Qorvo, Resideo, Schlage, Schneider Electric, Signify, Silicon Labs, SmartThings, Somfy, STMicroelectronics, Texas Instruments, Tuya Smart, ubisys, Wulian, and Zumtobel Group.

According to Signify, a software update for the Hue Bridge will make all existing and new Philips Hue smart lights and accessories compatible with the new industry-unified standard—Matter. As a result, Philips Hue users will benefit from greater interoperability, making it easier than ever to organize and build an innovative smart home. Signify actively participates in demonstrations and regularly tests the interoperability of Philips Hue products with smart home devices via Matter, ensuring that current and future Philips Hue users will enjoy a superior seamless connectivity experience.

Source: cnBeta, Signify