Matter 1.5 Ushers in Security Cameras, Expanded Device Support, and Energy Management Features
Matter, the connectivity standard aiming to unify the smart home, has received a meaningful update with the release of version 1.5. this marks the first time security cameras are natively supported by the standard,alongside additions for blinds,garage doors,gates,soil sensors,and advanced energy management capabilities.
The addition of security cameras allows for interoperability between devices from different manufacturers, enabling features like live video streaming and recording to local or cloud destinations.
Beyond cameras, Matter 1.5 expands support for “closures” – including window shades,drapes,awnings,gates,and garage doors - through a modular design allowing manufacturers to represent diverse motion types and configurations.
Smart gardening also receives a boost with the inclusion of soil sensors. These devices can measure moisture and, optionally, temperature, enabling automated watering systems when combined with Matter-based water valves or irrigation systems to conserve water and improve plant health.
the update introduces support for advanced energy management. A new electrical energy tariff device type allows utilities to share real-time and forecasted pricing, tariff, and carbon data with devices in a standardized format. This enables devices to estimate energy costs, report carbon impact, and automatically adjust operation based on user preferences or tariff schedules, possibly incorporating data from home solar systems.
While the new capabilities will take time to appear in consumer products, the Matter 1.5 update represents a substantial step forward in creating a more unified and interoperable smart home ecosystem.
