Matter launched to the public in 2022, promising a streamlined way to connect all your smart devices. Since its debut, the Connectivity Standards Alliance has continued to churn out updates to the interoperability standard, making it compatible with more devices and ironing out a few of its wrinkles. That trend continues today with the launch of Matter 1.4 — an update that expands its energy-tracking abilities and aims to make it easier than ever to create a robust home network.
For Matter users looking to lower their energy bills, they’ll be glad to know that the energy tracking features rolled out in update 1.3 are now coming to more devices for Matter 1.4. Energy reporting and management is now available for the following device types:
Along with these newly supported devices, Matter 1.4 brings enhancements to Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). You’ll now be able to dictate when you want your car to charge, giving you the freedom to pick optimal times for your area that may result in lower costs. Smart thermostats now also support scheduling and preset modes like Vacation Mode.
Matter 1.4 isn’t also about improving energy usage — it’s also about laying the foundation for further network enhancements. Home routers, modems, access points, and other devices can now be designed with more support for Matter-based devices. In other words, it should be easier for users to add gadgets to their Thread networks instead of having to build a new one. Expect to hear more about this in the future.
Plenty of smaller features have been added with Matter 1.4, and you can learn more about everything it has to offer on the official Matter website.
This post is brought to you in paid partnership with Best Buy.
Technology evolves every day, transforming how we live and work. Our devices are becoming more than tools we use. They are increasingly capable companions that help streamline day-to-day routines and spark creative ideas. If you have been waiting for the right moment to upgrade your tech setup, the Discover Samsung Shopping Event offers an opportunity to explore what connected, AI-powered living can look like.
With AI progressing so fast, it's only a matter of time before we start getting AI companions like the ones we used to see in movies like R2-D2, Wall-E, or Baymax. Now, Singapore-based OKA Technology has unveiled Mori, a cute little AI companion that looks less like a conventional home robot and more like someone turned the Pokémon Foongus into a table lamp.
Mori isn't meant to clean your house or control your smart home, but to serve as what OKA calls a "Nature Companion." It uses subtle movements, warm lighting, nature-inspired sounds, and small reactions to make its presence around the house feel calming rather than distracting. Mori can sit quietly while you read, sway along to music, welcome you when you enter a room, or encourage you to slow down for a moment without requiring a screen or a conversation.
Quick Recap: Life with twins and a pile of bottles