The Matter smart home standard continues to expand, and in a significant victory for iPhone and Apple Home users, Amazon's Alexa devices can now be set up on iOS. This enhancement allows users to utilize Echo, Echo Plus, and Echo Dot devices as 'Thread Border Routers.' According to the Amazon press release, users can "expand their smart homes with Matter-enabled Thread devices in addition to Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Mesh, and Matter-enabled Wi-Fi devices."

Simultaneously, Eve, renowned for its top-tier HomeKit devices, has entered into a partnership with Amazon to make its products Matter-compatible. This collaboration provides Echo and Alexa users with a broader selection of devices.

What is a Thread Border Router?

For many, the concept of a Thread Border Router might be confusing. However, it's quite straightforward – a Thread Border Router serves as a bridge between various smart home networks called 'threads,' such as Nanoleaf lights, enabling control through your existing smart home standard. This integration allows devices previously incompatible with systems like HomeKit or Alexa to now function seamlessly, broadening the possibilities for smart home enthusiasts.

Eve, known for its wide array of HomeKit-compatible smart home gadgets like window and door sensors, smart power plugs, and more, has announced support for Matter and Alexa through this partnership with Amazon. According to the same press release, Amazon and Eve have revealed that users can opt into Frustration-Free Setup (FFS) to easily add Eve devices to Alexa. "With Alexa, Eve customers can enjoy the convenience of voice control or use their devices to create Alexa Routines, making their homes more ambient and helpful," the release stated.

The Matter standard has already brought more beneficial devices to HomeKit, such as the Nest thermostat, and now, other smart home ecosystems are set to reap the benefits of Matter.