Quick answer: Matter is a smart home standard from the Connectivity Standards Alliance that lets devices from different brands work together using shared, secure, local commands. It runs over your home network, so core functions keep working when the internet drops.
Smart home gear used to lock you into one brand’s app. Matter aims to end that, so a bulb, plug or lock can work with whichever hub or assistant you prefer.
This guide covers what Matter is, how it connects, what it can control, and how to start. It applies in the US, UK, Canada, Australia and Europe alike. Apple is expected to show smart home products on October 13, so see our Apple “Welcome home” event preview for that news.
What is Matter?
Matter is an application-layer standard, not a radio technology. According to Homey, it lets devices from different brands use a shared, secure, local set of commands. The Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) is the group behind it. Version 1.0 launched on October 4, 2022, after being delayed twice, per the same source.
How does Matter connect devices?
Matter traffic travels over Thread, Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Bluetooth is mainly used for pairing a new device (called commissioning).
- Wi-Fi: Good for mains-powered devices such as plugs. See our Wi-Fi 7 explainer for the newest Wi-Fi generation.
- Thread: A low-power mesh network used by many sensors. Thread devices need a Thread Border Router to reach Wi-Fi and Ethernet devices.
- Ethernet: A wired option for hubs and bridges.
Does Matter work without the internet?
Mostly, yes. Matter runs locally, so devices keep core functions during an internet outage, says Homey. A hub usually provides the bridge to the internet for remote access, so away-from-home control still needs a connection. Some advanced features may remain available only in the manufacturer’s own app.
What can Matter control?
The CSA announced Matter 1.5 on November 20, 2025, adding several new device types, according to the CSA newsroom:
- Cameras: live video and audio streaming over WebRTC with two-way communication, pan-tilt-zoom controls, detection and privacy zones, and local or cloud recording.
- Closures: window shades, drapes, awnings, gates and garage doors, with more precise position reporting.
- Soil sensors: moisture and optional temperature, usable with irrigation systems.
- Energy tariff data: pricing, tariff and carbon information so devices can estimate costs or adjust operation. EV charging gains state-of-charge reporting and bi-directional charging.
Matter already covers lighting, climate, security, sensors, media and appliances, per Homey. Support still depends on each brand’s firmware, so check the box or the product page before buying.
What is multi-admin, and what is a bridge?
Multi-admin means several Matter hubs can share one device network. You do not need to unpair and re-pair a bulb to try a different system. Homey suggests picking one main hub for automations so it is clear what triggers what.
A bridge connects non-Matter devices to Matter controllers. Homey’s example is a Philips Hue hub that lets older Zigbee devices be controlled through Matter.
How do I get started with Matter?
- Choose a Matter-capable hub or speaker you already own or plan to buy.
- Start with something simple, such as a smart plug or light bulb.
- Set up the hub in its app.
- Plug in the device, then add it in the hub’s app, usually by scanning the Matter setup code.
Keep your router’s Wi-Fi password handy, and update the hub and device firmware after setup. For more explainers, browse the tech news category. If you also want tighter account security for your smart home apps, see our guide to setting up passkeys.
What should I check before buying a Matter device?
- Look for the Matter logo on the box or product page, and confirm which Matter version and device type it supports.
- Check the network type. Thread devices need a Thread Border Router, which some hubs and speakers include. Homey Pro, for example, has one built in.
- Check your hub. Your hub or smart speaker must support the device type, such as cameras or shades. Newer device types arrive in hubs through software updates, so support can lag behind the specification.
- Read the fine print on features. Some advanced functions may require the brand’s own app.
What if a Matter device will not pair?
Move the device close to the hub, restart both, and make sure your phone is on the same Wi-Fi network. If the device was set up before, remove it from the old system first, or reset it using the maker’s instructions. Because Matter pairing starts over Bluetooth, keep Bluetooth turned on during setup.
These are general troubleshooting steps, not guaranteed fixes. The device maker’s support page has the exact reset method for each product.
Frequently asked questions
Is Matter the same as Thread?
No. Matter is the shared language. Thread is one network type that can carry Matter messages, along with Wi-Fi and Ethernet.
Do I need a hub for Matter?
Usually yes. Thread devices need a Thread Border Router, and a hub also gives you remote access, according to Homey.
Will my old smart devices work with Matter?
Some can through a bridge, such as a Hue hub for Zigbee devices. Others may not be supported.
Does Matter replace brand apps?
Not fully. Some manufacturer-specific features may only be in the brand’s own app.