Does Matter Require mDNS?
As with most smart home protocols, Matter relies on wireless networking. But there is an aspect of Matter’s Wi-Fi requirement that might just impact its implementation on your network: multicast DNS (mDNS), a stand-alone protocol intended for small networks. Does Matter demand mDNS, or can you use Matter without it?
Tapo S505 Smart Wi-Fi Light Switch Review: A Solid Switch That Won't Break the Bank
For just under $25 MSRP—and often much lower on sale—the Tapo S505 Smart Wi-Fi Light Switch is without a doubt one of the most attractive Matter devices on the market. But with such a low price tag, there are bound to be a few dealbreakers that hold it back from being one of the best Matter-compatible light switches, right?
The Best Matter-Compatible Under Cabinet Lights
We've previously discussed how Matter-compatible strip lights with their flexibility and easy installation are an excellent fit for kitchen lighting—especially for cabinets. However, they aren't the best choice for those with existing under cabinet lighting or for those that want a clean integrated look. For these situations, consider a Matter-compatible under cabinet light.
What Can We Expect to See in Matter 1.4?
The release of the Matter 1.3 specification in Spring 2024 saw a range of new device types and features supported in the breakout smart home platform. Matter has a bi-annual release cycle, with a new specification released every Spring and Autumn. Matter 1.4 is imminent, therefore, promising new features and functionalities. But what new device support can we expect from Matter 1.4?
6 Smart-Home Device Types That Would Not Benefit From Matter Integration
Smart home tech has been around for a while, but Matter is relatively new. The Matter specification aims to unify smart home development into a single standard. But while embracing Matter seems likely to move us closer to the smart home of our dreams, there are devices that don’t really need to be integrated with the smart home protocol – they work just as well without it.
Will Matter Make Smart Home Devices More Energy-Efficient and More Environmentally Friendly?
Energy management is being added to Matter, the smart home protocol supported by an increasing number of manufacturers. Matter 1.3 adds various smart home energy management features, but does this support for smart thermostats and smart radiator valves make the standard more energy efficient and environmentally friendly?
The Best Matter-Compatible Radiator Valves
Radiators are great for keeping costs down by heating just the rooms or areas around them. However, they are not so great when it comes to convenience and controls, as most require making a trip over to the unit to make a simple adjustment. To reduce the number of trips, consider installing a Matter-compatible radiator valve.
The Google TV Streamer 4K is Also a Matter Hub
Google’s long-awaited upgrade to the awkwardly named Chromecast with Google TV is the more straightforward Google TV Streamer 4K, a direct competitor to Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Roku. Released to some fanfare, the device is more akin to those devices, rather than being a compact dongle that hands from your TV’s HDMI port. But most significantly, the Google TV Streamer 4K is also a Matter hub and Thread border router.
Can Matter be Used with Smart Ceiling Fans?
One of the ways a smart home can make life easier is to ensure the devices that make you feel good are interconnected. Take ceiling fans, for example, particularly important in warmer months and often found where air conditioning is unsuitable or impractical. As smart home technology becomes more popular, devices like smart ceiling fans become more enticing.
IKEA SOMRIG Shortcut Button Review: Affordable Automation With a Click
At just $9.99, IKEA's SOMRIG Shortcut Button is an incredibly enticing solution for adding physical controls to Matter devices. However, there are some requirements and limitations that you'll want to know about before making the trip to your local IKEA.
