The latest release of Matter, Matter 1.4.1, introduces features focused on allowing users to set up their smart home devices easily, reducing support calls and returns.
With three new features – Enhanced Setup Flow (ESF), Multi-Device Setup QR code, and Onboarding INfo in NFC Tag – the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) aims to make device setup and regulatory compliance easier, for the benefit of both end users and device manufacturers.
Enhanced Setup Flow
ESF is an update to the core commissioning process. It now supports displaying a manufacturer’s T&Cs directly in the commissioner app, including enabling the collection of customer consent. These responses are transmitted to the device being set up.
Previously, devices requiring T&C acceptance, for example to comply with GDPR, would need users to first connect to it using a deidcated app. But with ESF, T&Cs can be localised, displayed, and updated for user acceptance within the commissioner app.
For device manufacturers, this means T&Cs can be shown on interfaces beyond the manufacturer’s app, helping to meet regulatory requirements in different regions.
Multi-Device Setup QR code
Many Matter devices use a QR code on the device or in the packaging to facilitate simple and secure setup. For popular multipacks of devices like lightbulbs and smart plugs, it’s not always clear which code is for which device, and adding devices requires scanning the QR codes one by one.
With support in Matter for multi-device QR codes, users will be able to scan a single QR code to set up multiple devices at once.
Onboarding Info in NFC Tag
The Onboarding Info in NFC Tag feature allows manufacturers to embed the same information found in Matter QR codes into NFC tags. This expands options for embedding onboarding information into products, making it suitable for devices difficult to move or reorient, such as lightbulbs in fixtures or light switches whose QR codes might be hidden once installed. Users can simply tap their cell phone to the device for commissioning. This mechanism will be used alongside QR and manual (numeric) setup codes.
For device manufacturers, this provides an additional method for delivering onboarding information, complementing QR codes and numeric setup codes. For end users, it offers convenience and flexibility, making setup easier in a variety of real-world situations.
Evolving with Matter
The Matter 1.4.1 release brings meaningful improvements for ease-of-use and setup simplicity in smart home devices. These features represent the next step for Matter setup.
Device manufacturers and end users will benefit from the streamlined processes and increased flexibility.
As Matter’s first minor release, 1.4.1 focuses on expanding the certification programme to include previously provisional specifications for ESF and NFC Tags.
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