Matter 1.5 Smart Home Update Unlocks Camera Support and Energy Features

The Connectivity Standards Alliance has officially launched Matter 1.5. This major update brings camera support to the universal smart home standard for the first time. It also introduces new device types and enhanced energy management tools. The release promises a more unified and powerful smart home experience.According to the Alliance, this update is a significant step forward. It expands Matter’s reach into popular product categories like home security and environmental monitoring. Manufacturers can now begin certifying new devices under the updated specification.

New Device Types and Capabilities

Matter 1.5’s headline feature is native support for cameras. This includes doorbell cameras, indoor and outdoor security cameras, and baby monitors. These devices will support live video streaming, two-way audio, and motion detection through WebRTC.The standard now includes a unified approach to “closures.” This category covers garage doors, window shades, and gates. Users will gain more consistent control over these devices across different smart home platforms.For gardeners, Matter 1.5 adds soil moisture and temperature sensors. These sensors can connect with smart irrigation systems. This allows for automated plant watering based on real-time soil conditions.

Broader Impact and Energy Management

The update includes sophisticated energy management features. Utilities can now provide real-time energy pricing and carbon data to compatible devices. This allows smart home systems to optimize for cost and energy efficiency.Smart appliances can use this data to report their true energy costs and environmental impact. Better smart metering support also enables more accurate consumption tracking for homeowners.This development paves the way for a new wave of interoperable devices. Consumers can expect a wider selection of products that work seamlessly together, regardless of brand. The smart home ecosystem is set to become more intuitive and powerful.

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The Matter 1.5 release marks a pivotal expansion for the smart home standard. Its new device support and energy features address key consumer demands. This update significantly strengthens Matter’s position as the foundation for a connected home.

Info at your fingertips

What is the main benefit of Matter 1.5?

Matter 1.5’s biggest benefit is adding camera support. This allows security cameras and doorbells to work across different smart home ecosystems. It also brings new device types like soil sensors and better energy tracking.

Will my current smart camera work with Matter 1.5?

Maybe. The standard has built-in backward compatibility for many modern cameras. However, the manufacturer must decide to provide a software update. You should check with your device’s maker for specific upgrade plans.

What new devices does Matter 1.5 support?

It supports cameras, various closure devices like garage doors and shades, and soil sensors. These new categories greatly expand what you can control through a Matter-enabled smart home system.

How do the new energy features work?

The energy features allow utilities to send real-time pricing data to your devices. Your smart appliances can then use this information to run when energy is cheapest. This helps reduce both your bills and your carbon footprint.

Who is behind the Matter standard?

The Connectivity Standards Alliance develops Matter. This industry group includes hundreds of major tech companies like Apple, Google, Amazon, and Samsung. They collaborate to create a universal smart home standard.