Matter 1.5 brings new standards for cameras and sensors

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Matter 1.5 represents a significant update to the smart home standard. The new version expands the range of device classes, improves the control of existing categories, and, for the first time, opens the standard to cameras. It also includes improvements in energy management and new features for garden and plant care. Matter 1.5 thus places a clear emphasis on greater uniformity and stronger interoperability between different platforms and manufacturers.

Matter's goal is to make smart home devices compatible across platforms. However, since the standard's introduction, it quickly became clear that key areas such as cameras, energy management, and automated shutters require clear, uniform specifications. Matter 1.5 specifically aligns the standard with these areas, enabling a wider range of compatible devices. This update thus provides greater clarity for manufacturers and a more reliable user experience for smart home devices.

Camera support in Matter 1.5

With Matter 1.5, camera support is officially incorporated into the standard for the first time. Cameras can now be integrated without manufacturer-specific APIs. The new specification is based on WebRTC and enables stable live video and audio. Two-way communication is supported, and both local and remote access are possible. Matter 1.5 defines the following camera functions:

Live video and audio via WebRTC
Two-way audio
Supported Multi Stream Options
Functions for panning, tilting and zooming
Motion detection
Privacy zones
Flexible storage options through platform or manufacturer

Audio or video processing directly in the camera is not supported. Analysis functions remain with the platform.

The specification covers a wide range of camera types, including doorbell cameras, indoor and outdoor cameras, PTZ models, baby monitors, nanny cams, and floodlight cameras. Connection is via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or PoE. Many devices can be integrated through backward compatibility; however, each manufacturer decides which models will receive Matter 1.5 support.

Closures are given a uniform approach.

Matter 1.5 introduces a revised standard for closures. This includes blinds, curtains, awnings, gates, and garage doors. The specification supports various movement types such as sliding, rotating, or classic opening. Manufacturers can implement multiple configurations.

This results in unified control for users across different apps and ecosystems. Devices like garage doors clearly report whether they are open or closed. This makes automation more reliable and easier to use.

Soil sensors for precise plant care

Matter 1.5 expands the smart home with soil sensors. These measure soil moisture and temperature. In combination with Matter-compatible water valves or irrigation systems, plant care can be automated. This creates a reliable system for gardens, greenhouses, or houseplants that relies on precise data rather than fixed intervals.

Enhanced energy management functions

Another major area covered by Matter 1.5 is energy management. The standard enables energy suppliers, network operators, and service providers to send real-time data to devices. This includes prices, tariffs, CO2 values, and forecast data.

Devices can use this information to more realistically assess costs and CO2 impact. Consumption tracking becomes more accurate and transparent. Matter 1.5 also improves the integration of smart meters. This makes it easier to understand costs and consumption, which helps save energy in the long run.

New opportunities for manufacturers and platforms

With Matter 1.5, manufacturers can develop new devices and support additional categories. Platforms can integrate the expanded features and adapt their existing systems. The update brings more structure and reduces the effort required for individual interfaces or proprietary solutions. This results in a more stable foundation for the smart home market, capable of supporting more devices and scenarios.

Matter 1.5 strengthens the smart home as a complete system.

Matter 1.5 extends the standard to include key smart home areas. Official camera support, a modernized approach to shutters, the integration of floor sensors, and improved energy features make the standard more versatile and future-proof. The new specifications create a more unified, clearly structured smart home ecosystem, offering manufacturers more options and users a more stable and transparent user experience. (Image: Shutterstock / Audio and advertising)