iOS 26: What's new for the Apple Home app and Matter?
The first iOS 26 betas are here, and with it are some small, but significant, improvements to Apple's Home app. Here's what we've found so far.
The first iOS 26 betas are here, and with it are some small, but significant, improvements to Apple's Home app. Here's what we've found so far.
The Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) plays a leading role in the development of Matter and Zigbee. But that's just the beginning...
If you're looking for a new smart home lighting solution, the answer isn't as straightforward as you might think.
Pixel users have multiple Matter smart home hub options: Google Home, SmartThings (Samsung hub needed), Home Assistant (privacy-focused), Amazon Alexa, or TP-Link Deco routers.
Save yourself the frustration and shop brands that are all-in on Matter.
The badging of certain smart home devices as "Matter" compatible when they require a bridge is causing concern and confusion among smart home users.
Matter and eWeLink both play key roles in the smart home ecosystem, but they tackle the problem from different angles. Matter is a universal standard for device compatibility, while eWeLink is a platform built to manage and control smart devices—especially Sonoff hardware, but also Matter devices.
Most smart homes get a lot less smart when the internet goes out. Not all Matter-compatible platforms are affected by this, but it's something you should plan for.
If you're building a smart home, you might be confused: Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Thread? Well, the answer is straightforward -- when in doubt, look for Matter.
Should you embrace the smart home platform that comes with your phone? We take a look at Google Home and Apple Home.
A smartwatch is like a smart speaker that's always on your wrist, plus it has a screen, making it perfect for controlling your Matter smart home.
Matter doesn't currently add much to air purifiers, but compatibility is still a feature worth having.
Two years after its debut, is Matter ready for a fully smart home? Our tour of the Connectivity Standards Alliance's demo house in China offers insights.
Thanks to Samsung's popularity, SmartThings is the easiest way to dabble with most Matter devices on the market.
Z-Wave is evolving, and recent developments could see it working alongside Matter with bridged devices.
You can control any Matter-enabled gadget using the phone in your hand, but that's only the beginning.
Thinking about buying a Google Nest device for your smart home? These Matter-compatible devices are a good option to future-proof your home.
Google Home is a viable option for a smart home, but its Matter support is woefully behind.
There's no reason smart home tech has to stay inside your home. Whenever you're setting up new lights or sensors outside your home, check for Matter-compatibility.
You could buy a smart plug, or opt for a more permanent solution with a smart outlet. But which option is best for you?