CES 2026 has been a significant event for the Matter standards, featuring numerous product launches that signal a maturing smart home ecosystem. Companies are deepening their investment in the technology, with some moving toward full support across their entire product line-ups. The Thread protocol is also gaining traction, appearing even in devices from brands that previously relied solely on Wi-Fi, such as Lifx. Additionally, Aliro is making its presence felt as the industry prepares for its wider adoption in the digital access space.
Here are five Matter highlights that can bring new sparks to your home space.
Lifx SuperColor Mirror
Designed specifically for bathrooms and vanities, the Lifx SuperColor Mirror combines powerful front and backlighting with thoughtful functionality. It features specialized modes like “Make Up Check” and “Anti-Fog,” addressing common bathroom needs. The mirror includes three configurable buttons integrated into the glass, allowing users to toggle lighting scenes, adjust brightness and color, or control other Matter-enabled devices directly from the vanity. This design aims to fit smart lighting seamlessly into daily routines without the need to reach for a phone with wet hands.
Lifx also highlighted its commitment to open standards. In 2026, the company is rolling out a Thread upgrade for its current generation of smart devices, likely targeting those with the LCM4 controller (ESP32-C6 multi-radio chipset). This update will give users the choice to use Wi-Fi for simple, direct connectivity or switch to Thread for a fast, low-latency mesh network as their smart home grows.
Sensereo Airo Air Quality Sensor
The Sensereo Airo offers a fresh take on environmental monitoring with a modular architecture built on Matter and Thread standards. Unlike traditional monitors that measure air quality from a single fixed location, the Airo uses a “Dock + Pod” system. Users can place battery-powered pods in different rooms to monitor carbon dioxide, TVOCs, particulate matter, temperature, and humidity where people actually live, sleep, and work.
This approach avoids the pitfall of averaging data into a single home-wide reading. Instead, Airo collects data separately from each space and synchronizes it into a structured view of indoor air quality. The pods are wire-free, with a single charge lasting up to 30 days. Powered by Thread networking, the system integrates smoothly into ecosystems like Apple Home and Google Home. The device is expected to be available for pre-order via Kickstarter in the second quarter of 2026.
Hunter Smart Wall Panel
Hunter introduced the Smart Wall Panel to provide unified control over whole-home comfort systems. Designed to integrate via the HunterSMART App, this Matter-enabled panel offers control of fans, lights, and scenes through a physical interface or voice commands. A key feature is the built-in Amazon Alexa, which allows users to issue hands-free commands directly to the unit without needing a separate smart speaker.
The panel is particularly notable for its ability to upgrade most standard AC fans into connected solutions. This allows homeowners to create energy-saving schedules and access their devices remotely without replacing the entire fan unit. It positions itself as a simple, intuitive upgrade that brings legacy fixtures into the modern Matter ecosystem.
Hisense TopLift Dehumidifier
Addressing a persistent usability issue in home appliances, Hisense introduced the TopLift Dehumidifier. This device features a top-mounted water collection system with an 18-pint (10-liter) cartridge. A patented internal pump moves water upward into the removable container, eliminating the need for users to bend down and lift heavy tanks from the bottom of the unit – a common cause of spills and strain.
The TopLift offers 38 percent more capacity than traditional models and operates at a quiet 45 decibels, making it suitable for living rooms and bedrooms. Crucially, the unit is Matter-certified and supports the ConnectLife platform. This connectivity allows for real-time alerts when the tank is full and remote control of humidity levels through standard smart home apps.
TCL Dehumidifier
Homey Matter camera support and energy updates
The Homey platform announced significant expansions in camera support and energy management. Through a new partnership with Reolink and continued collaboration with Aqara, Homey is preparing to support the Matter 1.5 spec. This update is planned for the first quarter of 2026 and will bring native camera capabilities to the standard, including live-streaming, two-way communication, and advanced controls. Homey is also expanding its video format support to include WebRTC, RTSP, and RTMP, improving compatibility with a wider range of IP cameras.
On the energy front, Homey is collaborating with EcoFlow – a Matter adopter in energy management – to better connect automation with power storage. Users can plug a Homey Energy Dongle into their smart meter’s P1 port to monitor real-time usage. This data can then be used by EcoFlow, batteries to automatically optimize energy flow, for example, by using stored power when solar production is high or electricity prices are peak. This integration allows Homey Flow automations to trigger based on complex energy events, bridging the gap between smart home convenience and energy efficiency.
(Source: Lifx, Sensereo, Hunter, Hisense, Homey)
