The release of Matter 1.5 expands the popular smart home standard with exciting new device classes and functions. In addition to the long-awaited support for cameras, extended control options for locks such as blinds, gates and garage doors have also been added. Matter 1.5 also integrates new sensors for soil moisture measurement and modernizes energy management to make households more sustainable and efficient.
- Support for cameras with live video, two-way audio and control functions such as pan and zoom
- Advanced controls for shutter devices, including precise position reporting and modular control options
- Introduction of soil moisture sensors for intelligent garden irrigation
- Improved energy management with real-time tariff data and smart load control
New device class: cameras in the Matter ecosystem
Matter 1.5 integrates cameras into the standard for the first time. This enables developers to build smart home cameras with Matter compatibility without having to rely on proprietary interfaces. Live video and audio streams are transmitted via WebRTC technology, which also enables voice communication in both directions. Camera functionalities include multiple streams, pan-tilt-zoom controls and the definition of detection and privacy zones. Videos can be stored locally or in the cloud, either continuously or event-based.
This innovation makes it easier for consumers to seamlessly combine and control different camera models and price ranges in a Matter-based smart home environment.
Matter 1.5 camera compatibility is designed to cover the widest possible range of modern cameras, both in terms of complexity, price range and camera types. It supports video doorbells, indoor and outdoor cameras, floodlight cameras, baby and nanny cameras, pan/tilt cameras and more. Cameras with WiFi, POE and Ethernet are supported.
The system is also backwards20 compatible with most modern cameras, as these usually already have the necessary processing power, memory and WiFi support to enable video recording, streaming and playback. However, the individual manufacturers decide which devices are supported individually and at different times.
Improved control for shutter devices
The range of locking devices has been significantly expanded: Matter 1.5 now covers more device types, including shutters, awnings, gates and garage doors. Thanks to a modular cluster design, manufacturers can implement different types of movement and device configurations – for example, simple blinds or complex smart windows.
For users, this means more consistent control and increased safety thanks to precise position feedback. In future, Matter will support typical scenarios such as querying whether the garage door or front door is actually closed.
Intelligent irrigation with soil moisture sensors
With support for soil sensors, Matter 1.5 extends the focus to garden and plant care. These sensors measure moisture and temperature in the soil, enabling irrigation systems to be controlled as required. Automatic, water- and energy-saving irrigation cycles can be realized when soil moisture data is used in conjunction with Matter-compatible water or valve controllers.
Advanced energy management
Matter 1.5 introduces new classes of devices for energy management, including tariffing, metering and control components. Households can receive real-time information on electricity prices, tariff structures and CO2 intensity of the grid and adjust their appliances accordingly. In addition, the standard supports advanced load management functions and bidirectional charging of electric vehicles.
These functions promote the sustainable and cost-efficient use of energy and enable the intelligent integration of self-consumption and grid load.
Conclusion
Matter 1.5 brings comprehensive enhancements that make the smart home standard more versatile and user-friendly. The addition of cameras, locking units, floor sensors and innovative energy management provides major benefits for both consumers and manufacturers. The availability of the specification and certification tools is planned for fall 2025, which makes product deliveries in the following year likely. Pricing and market launch will vary by manufacturer and device type, with broader support for Matter creating a sustainable future for connected homes.
