The Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), of which Apple is a member, today announced that an updated Matter 1.2 specification is available to device manufacturers and platforms. Matter 1.2 adds support for additional device types and improvements to Matter. Matter is a smart home protocol that allows devices to work across multiple platforms, including HomeKit. With Matter 1.2, Matter support can be added to refrigerators, standalone room air conditioners, dishwashers, washing machines, robot vacuum cleaners, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, air quality sensors, air purifiers and fans. Apple's ‌HomeKit‌ supports some of these device types, such as air quality monitors, air purifiers, and smoke detectors, but Apple may need to deploy ‌HomeKit‌ updates to add Matter 1.2 support. Matter 1.2 also adds improvements for multi-unit switches and multi-bulb fixtures, along with semantic tags and improvements for device operational status, which should give device manufacturers more options for more complex smart home products. According to the CSA, Matter 1.2 includes improvements in testing and certification, allowing companies to bring products to market faster. Matter 1.2 certification is now open and Matter 1.2 devices and enhancements are expected to be available in the market later this year. More information about the changes can be found on the CSA website.

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