Matter Smart Home Blog
Matter explainers
Longer explanations of how Matter works, each linked to the Connectivity Standards Alliance or the maker's own documentation. MatterCatalog does not test devices; see our editorial policy.
Articles
Matter Versions Explained: What Each Release Added, From 1.0 to 1.6
Every Matter release from 1.0 to 1.6 (June 17, 2026), what each one added, and why a new release does not mean your devices support it yet.
Read moreWhat Is Matter? The Complete Guide to the Smart Home Standard
Matter is the cross-platform smart home standard backed by Apple, Google, Amazon, and Samsung. Learn how it works, why it matters, and how to get started.
Read moreThe Best Matter Devices to Buy in 2026
Our picks by category: Hue Bridge with Hue bulbs and Nanoleaf Essentials A19 (lights), Yale lock, Eve Energy plug, Eve sensors, Nest Learning Thermostat.
Read moreThread Border Routers Explained: What They Do and Which Devices Have One
Matter devices that use Thread need a Thread border router. What one does, which Apple, Google, Amazon, Samsung and Nanoleaf devices include one according to their makers, and what to check before you buy.
Read moreHow to Set Up Matter Devices: The Complete Guide
Step-by-step instructions for adding Matter devices to Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings.
Read moreMatter Energy Management: What the Standard Covers and What Works Today
Matter added energy reporting and EV chargers in 1.3, solar, batteries, heat pumps and water heaters in 1.4, and energy tariffs in 1.5. What each part does, with sources, and what to check before you buy.
Read moreMatter basics
What is Matter?
The standard, the networks it runs on, and what it does not do.
How to set up Matter devices
Step by step for Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa and SmartThings.
Matter vs Zigbee vs Z-Wave
How the three compare, and when to keep what you have.
Matter Thread devices
Thread devices in the catalog, and what they need.
Matter FAQ
Short answers to common questions.
Buying guides
Source-based picks by category and platform.
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