The Thread Group has officially released its Thread 1.4 specification, alongside launching a new certification programme for applications. This release enables members to introduce significant upgrades to both new and existing wireless IoT devices, as well as advanced sensor networks, which leverage Thread to create secure, private mesh networks.
For end users, the benefits are considerable. For instance, they can now seamlessly add Matter-enabled devices updated to Thread 1.4 to any existing Thread network, as long as it is supported by a Thread 1.4 Border Router, regardless of the underlying hardware or software ecosystem. In addition to improving interoperability, the enhancements introduced in January also promise increased network range, enhanced security, and greater reliability for sensor networks, while improving energy efficiency for IoT devices.
Thread is a versatile low-power wireless networking technology, enabling a wide range of IoT devices, systems, and services to operate in a more sustainable, secure, and reliable manner. Using open IP standards, Thread serves as a network layer agnostic to application technologies, including DALI+, KNX IoT, and Matter.
“There’s been an exponential increase of Thread-certified devices in homes and smart buildings globally since the major smart home platforms adopted Thread,” said Vividh Siddha, President of Thread Group. “From these real-world deployments, our members continue to discover inventive new ways for Thread to improve their end-customers’ experience. Now, device manufacturers can implement 1.4, and offer exciting new features, improved device performance, and stronger app integrations.”
The Thread 1.4 update brings a range of features and improvements, including:
- One mesh network: Regardless of brand, smart home platform, or operating system, updated devices or Thread Border Routers can now join existing Thread networks, creating a larger, more reliable mesh. Thread 1.4 standardises the way devices recognise and trust one another, resulting in one cohesive network
- Cloud connectivity: Thread 1.4 Border Routers will now follow a defined, standard route to the internet, allowing manufacturers to introduce more dynamic features, such as self-adjusting window blinds based on weather conditions. Users will also benefit from better remote control, whether at home or off-site, and devices will receive software updates and diagnostics, reducing maintenance costs
- Enhanced reliability and range: The introduction of Thread over Infrastructure allows Border Routers to extend the network via Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections, simplifying the addition of new devices or relocating existing ones. Thread-enabled devices positioned at the network’s edge can be installed in hard-to-reach locations with greater reliability and robustness.
- Improved testing and troubleshooting: Newly standardised methods for network configuration and status reporting provide developers and installers with enhanced visibility of Thread networks. This leads to improved performance, advanced troubleshooting capabilities, and the potential for commercial-grade monitoring
- Secure, wireless onboarding in difficult locations: Thread’s commissioning at scale feature streamlines the process of wirelessly onboarding pre-installed devices in hard-to-reach locations, such as ceilings or walls. Instead of scanning physical installation codes, the onboarding can be done securely using TLS certificates, ideal for professional installations in commercial settings
- Additional enhancements: Thread 1.4 also includes updates that improve the operation and performance of Thread mesh networks, ensuring better deployment and user experience across Thread-enabled devices
“During my nearly 10 years overseeing the certification program for Thread-enabled components and devices, we’re seeing unprecedented interest in the 1.4 enhancements,” commented Tom Sciorilli, Director of Certification for Thread Group. “Now that the 1.4 certification program is taking applications, our members are eager to roll its benefits out to consumers, installers, and those responsible for smart building deployments.”
Benefits for developers, installers, and smart building users
Thread Group members continue to share their expertise and experiences to ensure Thread remains one of the leading low-power wireless mesh technology for IoT and Smart Home devices. These enhancements offer value across the entire IoT chain:
- For product managers and developers: The new opportunities for innovation and differentiation, along with improved customer support, will help strengthen brand loyalty
- For professional installers: These enhancements will simplify the installation process, provide better troubleshooting tools, and reduce time on-site, improving both profitability and productivity
- For smart home and building users: The improvements will lead to richer, more satisfying experiences, with networks that are more robust, scalable, and secure.
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