- Amazon Echo (4th Gen)
- Amazon Eero 6, 6 Plus, Pro 6E, Eero 7, Pro 7, Max 7, PoE 6, and PoE Gateway
- Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen), Echo Show 15 (second-gen), Echo Show 21 (second-gen), and Echo Hub
- Apple HomePod (2nd Gen)
- Apple HomePod Mini
- Apple TV 4K (2nd Gen and 3rd Gen with Wi-Fi + Ethernet)
- Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen)
- Google Nest Hub Max
- Google Nest Wifi and Nest Wifi Pro
- Google TV Streamer 4K
- Samsung SmartThings Station, Hub v3, and Hub Dongle
- Samsung Good TVs (CU8000, CU7000, NEO QLED 8K and 4K)
- Aqara Smart Hub M3
- Homey Pro
A Transient Historical past of Thread
Initially developed by Nest (earlier than the Google acquisition), Thread has existed since 2011. Devised as a power-efficient mesh networking expertise for internet-of-things (IoT) merchandise, Thread gathered tempo after the 2014 formation of the Thread Group, which develops the expertise and drives its adoption as an business customary. Founding members like ARM, Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm have been joined by Apple, Amazon, and lots of different massive firms through the years.
The Thread specification is obtainable without spending a dime, however there may be an end-user license settlement (EULA) for adopters. Thread has developed, with new variations and options rolling out each couple of years. New variations are backward suitable, so new units can work alongside older ones. Generally older Thread units may be upgraded to the newest model, however not at all times.
The most recent model, Thread 1.4, landed in 2024, bringing credential sharing, which permits for networks shaped in numerous ecosystems (akin to Apple House, Google House, Amazon Alexa) and totally different Thread Border Routers to kind one massive mesh, as a substitute of a number of separate meshes. Sadly, though the Thread 1.4 specification is obtainable, it takes some time for producers to undertake it and undergo certification.
To be taught extra about Thread, take a look at the official Thread Group website.
How Does Thread Work With Matter?
Thread is what allows units to attach to one another, and Matter is the language they use to speak. Thread really helps numerous utility layers, like Matter, that sit on high. It could actually even assist a number of utility layers concurrently. Matter makes use of Thread, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet for gadget connectivity. If the gadget is battery-powered and bandwidth necessities are low, it is going to decide Thread. For prime-bandwidth and always-on (plugged-in) units (like safety cameras), it is going to select Wi-Fi. Matter additionally makes use of Bluetooth LE for the preliminary setup of some units. You’ll find out extra in my Matter guide.
Thread vs. Zigbee
Zigbee has been round longer than Thread and is predicated on the identical wi-fi expertise. It could actually additionally create sturdy mesh networks, options safe encryption, and is nice for low-power units. As a result of Zigbee has its personal utility and community layers, it requires a proprietary hub that acts as a gateway for connections, whereas Thread is IPv6, so it may seamlessly combine with current IP-based networks by any Thread Border Router. Thread can also be decrease latency than Zigbee, so sensible residence units reply extra rapidly.
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