Dave has been working in the technology space since 2002, and has been passionate about smart home ever since. Formerly the CTO of XDA Developers, he has also written for publications like MakeUseOf and Lifehacker. Dave also has a Bachelors degree in Telecommunications, a Master's in Computer Science, and is a CISSP. He lives outside the Philadelphia area and enjoys spending time with his family, travelling, DIY and videos games (in that order).
CES 2025 in Las Vegas was a showcase of the latest and greatest in technology, smart home included. I had the opportunity to get hands-on with some exciting new Matter-compatible devices, and I'm thrilled to share my favorites with you.
Amazon has taken smart home displays to a new level with the announcement of the Echo Show 21, featuring a massive 21-inch screen - the largest yet for the Echo lineup. Beyond its size, this flagship device integrates cutting-edge smart home technology, including Matter Controller, Thread Border Router, and Zigbee hub capabilities, making it a compelling option for connected homes.
Sticking to its Spring/Fall release cycle, the Connectivity Standards Alliance has today announced Matter 1.4. This brings a collection of overall improvements, including new features, revised functionality on existing features, and support for new device types.
Thread 1.4 simplifies smart home networking by unifying devices into a single, more reliable mesh network, addressing past setup issues and enhancing overall interoperability and performance.
IFA Berlin 2024 showcased a wealth of new tech, much of which you can expect to see in shops over the coming months. Along with the usual audio gear, mobile phones, and laptops, IFA Berlin 2024 was the launchpad for a collection of new smart home technology, much of which has been built with support for Matter.
By now, you've most likely heard about all the many ways that Matter can simplify your smart home. But up until recently, Matter was limited to inside our homes, leaving key areas out in the cold—quite literally. That changes with the Tapo P400M Outdoor Smart Plug.
The Thread protocol's 2024 credential sharing Improvements significantly enhances the smart home ecosystem by unifying diverse networks.
Matter version 1.2 was released today, with support for bigger smart-home gadgets such as refrigerators, robot vacuum cleaners, washing machines, dishwashers, and much more.
Previously unannounced Matter-certified product unveiled by Matter Alpha. Update: Product has been released by Nanoleaf and is available for purchase!
Prominent smart home integrator Loxone, Big Ass Fans, Schlage among latest companies to join the Matter smart home standard.
IFA 2023 is right around the corner, scheduled for September 1-5th, 2023 in Berlin Germany.
Leviton, a global leader in smart home solutions, has just unveiled its newest addition to the award-winning Decora Smart Wi-Fi line - the first-ever Matter Outdoor Smart Plug.
Pair with Aqara Hub to gain access to your Matter smart home
Great deal on the TP Link Tapo P125M Matter-enabled smart plug on Amazon. Regularly $49.99, with this coupon it is available for $39.99
A new model of the popular smart remote control, "Nature Remo nano," has been announced, and it's designed to retrofit future home appliances and lifestyles. Priced at 3,980 yen ($28 USD), it's an affordable option for a Matter-compatible IR blaster.
