The release of the Matter standard is delayed, but it will be compatible with more devices

The release of the Matter standard has been delayed until Fall 2022. The smart home connectivity protocol being developed by Amazon, Apple, Google, Samsung and others had been expected to launch this summer.

The Connectivity Standard Alliance (CSA), overseeing the Matter project, confirmed the delay in a blog post. It explained that the setback was due to the software development kit (SDK), which smart home device manufacturers will use to integrate their products into the Matter ecosystem.

The SDK needs further development before it will be ready to launch, given the greater than expected number of platforms that plan to adopt the new protocol. The CSA also said that those working on the SDK would need “to stabilize, tweak, tune, and improve quality in the code.”

One hundred thirty devices from fifty participating companies are expected to be rolled out in the first phase. The initial list of gadgets that would be Matter compatible included light bulbs, outlets, switches, door locks and temperature sensors.

A recent update to the Matter Developer Profile suggests that three new device categories have been added to this list: occupancy sensors, contact sensors and motion sensors.

In the blog post, Matter highlighted that “the finish line is in sight”, concluding that

For the ability to tear down the walled gardens in IoT, accelerate growth, and improve experiences for customers and consumers, we’re certain a couple extra months will be worth the wait.”

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