Stephen Payne, Eltako UK Sales Manager, looks into some of the reasons why ‘Matter’ could change the smart home market.
It’s not often that something new comes along that will have such a big impact on the smart home market, in the way that Matter will. Previously called Connected Home Over IP (CHIP), it was designed to bring together tech companies, manufacturers and IoT platforms to give true smart home interoperability.
A good number of manufacturers, including Google, Apple, Amazon, ABB, Legrand and Eltako are already on board with this development, with Version 1 of the Matter specification launched at the beginning of November 2022. The software is truly Open Source, and the only requirement is to register and consent to the terms and conditions. Manufacturers then need to have their Matter products independently tested and approved to assure complete interoperability.
Professional installation requirement
Matter devices can be controlled via both wired switches and Wi-Fi App and will open a whole new world of possibilities for homes to become truly integrated and intelligent.
Eltako has initially launched four devices, for switching and dimming lights and controlling blinds. As well as working with Matter, they can be integrated into, and will work with, Apple HomeKit, Google Home and Amazon (Alexa) with the free Eltako Connect software allowing you to make the configuration.
The Eltako modules will need to be professionally installed, which means that UK electricians will be able to install smart controls into properties with the minimum of fuss. Switching devices can be standard UK switches or retractive-switches, which can be purchased from any wholesaler and come in many different designs (not just white).
In general, once the devices are installed and powered up, you will hear a tone after a few seconds. After scanning the correct QR code supplied, the device is then added to the selected App. You then select a name for the device (for example, ‘Lounge Lights’) from a drop-down box menu or you can type in your own selection. Any updates are downloaded automatically and it should be noted that the software is encrypted and totally secure.
Once the devices are integrated to make a system and configured via your chosen App, they can then be controlled via wall switch, over your smart home App or by voice control.
Assisted Living potential
Matter will also open many possibilities in the Assisted Living sector, allowing the use of PIR sensors so individuals can see where they are in their home, whether their door is locked at night, if the temperature of the room is correct, and so much more. These things are already possible with Eltako’s wireless devices, but now there will be an alternative wired/Wi-Fi solution, giving installers more choice.
There are already over 1,200 devices listed for heating, lighting, blinds, air quality, access control and leak sensors that work with Matter, with some devices requiring professional installation and others a more plug and play approach.
Because Matter is an Open Protocol, you’re not dependent on one single manufacturer, so you can simply pick and choose the products you want from the various existing manufacturers. This will also keep the Matter market competitive, which is good for everyone.
For installers and distributors this opens a new and lucrative revenue stream, without the need for investment in expensive commissioning equipment or training. For the homeowner it offers them the capability of smart control without a high price tag and little or no disruption to their home. You could start with one room or the whole house and take away or add devices as you need.
Eltako also offers an open API for anyone who would like to configure and control the new IP devices from Eltako with their own software. Information on this can be downloaded from our website.
Smart homes for everyone
It has long been the market’s desire to easily integrate all the smart devices in a home together using one Open Protocol. Matter will help to achieve this ambition, bringing all the devices in a home together and putting the smart home concept within the reach of just about everyone.
Get more details on Eltako’s range of Matter-compliant devices here
