A New Language for the Internet of Things In the ever-expanding world of smart devices, one question has been haunting both developers and consumers: Why can’t all my devices just talk to each other? The Matter protocol is the industry’s bold answer — a universal standard designed to make smart homes truly smart.
The Birth of Matter Protocol
Matter protocol began life in 2019 under the name Project Connected Home over IP (CHIP), a collaboration between tech giants like Apple, Google, Amazon, and the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA). The goal was simple yet ambitious:
- End the chaos of incompatible smart home devices.
- Improve security and privacy.
- Ensure local control without relying solely on the cloud.
How Matter Works
Matter protocol is not a physical device — it’s a communication standard that sits at the application layer of the OSI model. Think of it as a common language that all certified devices can speak.
Built on Internet Protocol (IP)
Matter uses IPv6 as its backbone, meaning it can run over:
- Wi‑Fi for high-bandwidth devices.
- Thread for low-power, mesh-connected devices.
- Ethernet for wired reliability
Commissioning with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
When you add a new device to your network, Matter uses BLE for quick and secure onboarding before switching to its main IP-based communication.
Example – Adding a Smart Switch via BLE
Imagine you’ve just bought a Matter-certified smart switch. Here’s how commissioning with BLE works in practice:
- Scan the QR Code – On the product’s packaging or the device itself, you’ll find a Matter setup QR code. Open your smart home app, choose “Add New Device,” and scan this code to initiate the secure setup process.
- Power On the Device – Plug in the smart switch or insert its batteries. It automatically enters pairing mode, broadcasting a secure BLE signal.
- Secure Handshake – Your phone detects the smart switch’s BLE signal and exchanges encrypted credentials.
- Wi‑Fi/Thread Transfer – Once authenticated, the app securely sends your home network details to the switch over BLE.
- Switch to Main Protocol – The smart switch disconnects from BLE and joins your home network via Wi‑Fi or Thread, ready for use.
💡 In under a minute, your new smart switch is fully integrated — no complicated manual network entry required.
Key Features of Matter
- Interoperability – Devices from different brands work together seamlessly.
- Security First – Strong encryption and device attestation certificates.
- Local Control – Core functions work without internet dependency.
- Future-Proof – Open-source SDK for developers to innovate.
Bridging Old and New
One of Matter’s most powerful tricks is bridging. Devices using older protocols like Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Bluetooth Mesh can be integrated into a Matter network via a bridge device. This means your existing smart bulbs or sensors don’t become obsolete overnight.
Why Matter Matters for IoT
For consumers, it means fewer headaches, no more “works only with X” labels, and a smoother smart home experience. For developers and manufacturers, it means building once and reaching a much larger market without reinventing the wheel for each ecosystem.
The Future of Matter
With adoption from major players and ongoing updates, Matter is poised to become the universal translator of the IoT world. As more devices join the ecosystem, the dream of a truly connected home — where your coffee machine, thermostat, and security system work in perfect harmony — moves from science fiction to everyday reality.
💡 Pro Tip for Readers: If you’re buying new smart devices, look for the Matter logo. It’s your guarantee that your gadgets will play nicely together, now and in the future.
