The Dutch smart home platform Homey has introduced the new Matter Bridge app, which builds a bridge between older smart home devices and modern Matter systems. This allows users to seamlessly integrate their existing devices into Matter-compatible ecosystems such as Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa or Samsung SmartThings – without having to purchase new hardware. The update opens up completely new possibilities for the standardization of smart home systems.
- Connects older devices (Z-Wave, Zigbee, 433 MHz, infrared) with Matter platforms
- Supports Homey Pro (2023) and Homey Pro Mini
- Compatible with Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings and Home Assistant
- Easy setup via QR code and Homey interface
A new step in smart home networking
With the Matter Bridge, Homey brings devices into the Matter universe that were not previously supported. These include, for example, a 433 MHz roller shutter motor or an older Z-Wave thermostat, which can now appear in Apple Home or Google Home. The app thus creates interoperability between previously separate systems and paves the way towards a truly unified smart home.
Matter acts as a new industry standard that connects smart home devices from different manufacturers via a common protocol. Homey is now actively using this standard to bridge the gap between older and more modern technologies. In addition to Z-Wave and Zigbee, devices based on infrared or 433 MHz can also be integrated into Matter networks – areas in which Matter alone did not previously offer native support.
Setup and use: quick and easy
The Matter Bridge is installed via the Homey App Store. Once set up, a QR code can be generated in the Homey app under Settings → Matter Bridge, which is used to pair with the desired Matter controller. The user then selects which devices are to be integrated – these then appear automatically in the connected Matter platform.
A major advantage is the flexibility: whether lighting control, thermostat, socket, door lock or sensors – almost all supported components can be integrated. The bridge supports both Homey Pro (Early 2023) and Homey Pro Mini, providing a broad basis for existing installations. The ability to interact with voice assistants such as Siri, Google Assistant or Alexa without the need for redundant apps or hubs is particularly attractive.
Availability and outlook
The Matter Bridge app is now available free of charge in the Homey App Store. This underlines Homey’s commitment to making smart home technology more open and accessible. The new function not only expands compatibility, but also ensures that older devices can be seamlessly integrated into modern ecosystems – a decisive step forward for future-proof home automation.
