Amazon was fast to pledge assist for the Matter smart home customary, and now it is clear simply when (and if) you possibly can count on the technology to succeed in your family. The corporate has confirmed that 17 Echo gadgets, plugs, switches and bulbs will assist Matter over WiFi in December, with 30 Echo and Eero merchandise providing assist by early subsequent 12 months. You may initially want Android to set this up (Apple solely launched the Matter-friendly iOS 16.1 days in the past), and the main target might be on lighting. Nonetheless, assist for iOS, Thread and extra smart home tech can be due in early 2023.
The assist will prolong to years-old Echo merchandise, together with the second-generation Echo Plus (proven right here). You’ll be able to see the complete compatibility checklist beneath. You won’t have to exchange your gear simply to make certain you are prepared for Matter.
You will not should be too choosy about which telephones and apps you employ. Amazon is partnering with Samsung to allow you to use Alexa or SmartThings to arrange Matter {hardware}. An upcoming Alexa framework will create a easy, unified Thread community that permits management by both firm’s platforms.
Accordingly, Amazon is tweaking its Works with Alexa (WWA) certifications so as to add Matter assist. A brand new gadget that receives the WWA badge should assist Matter. Present {hardware} that will get a Matter replace will not must undergo this system once more, though it might want to move Matter certification and can nonetheless have to satisfy Amazon’s WWA necessities.
This nonetheless leaves you with the prospect of changing notably previous Echo gear, and there is a probability a few of your linked house parts will not assist Matter in any respect. Nonetheless, Amazon’s compatibility plans counsel you will not should overhaul your whole setup.
Replace 11/3 11:30AM ET: Amazon has shared the complete checklist of Echo gadgets receiving Matter assist in December, and it covers a variety of audio system, shows and peripherals launched prior to now few years.
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Echo (third and 4th technology)
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Echo Dot (third, 4th and fifth technology, with or with out clock)
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Echo Plus (2nd technology)
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Echo Studio
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Echo Present 5 (1st and 2nd technology)
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Echo Present 8 (1st and 2nd technology)
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Echo Present 10 (third technology)
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Echo Flex
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Echo Enter
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