Home app | Matter integration | Apple HomeKit

This update enriches the smart home ecosystem by allowing devices such as electric vehicle chargers and water management tools to seamlessly integrate with various platforms such as HomeKit. Matter 1.3 extends compatibility with devices such as kitchen appliances, laundry systems and televisions, in addition to the existing range of smart home devices. This specification primarily promotes energy management by introducing energy reporting for smart plugs and similar devices. Users can now access real-time and historical energy consumption data, including detailed statistics such as power, voltage and current. Electric vehicle owners will benefit from enhanced charging features that enable manual control of charging activities, adjustments in charging rates and optimization of charging schedules. The specification also brings significant improvements in water management, supporting devices aimed at detecting leaks and freezes, as well as rain sensors and adjustable water valves. In kitchen technology, Matter 1.3 extends support to a variety of appliances including microwaves, ovens, hobs, range hoods and dryers, improving user interaction and integration with other smart home systems. Television functionality is also getting a boost, with improved features for initializing castings, search operations and improved interactivity with TV applications. Another key addition is support for 'scenes', which allows users to configure and activate settings on multiple devices with a single command, mirroring the functionality seen in HomeKit scenes. This update also optimizes communication between devices, allowing controllers to send batch commands for faster execution. Matter 1.3 compliant devices are expected to hit the market later this year. More details and specifications can be found on the CSA website.