HomeKit Weekly: Homey’s new Device Updates feature shows what Matter was supposed to be all along
Firmware updates have been the weakest link for a decade with smart homes. Every sensor, light bulb, and smart lock in your house runs software that should be updated regularly . This is on top of even if they have software updates. Homey just announced a fix for a big piece of that, and the way it handles Matter devices is the part that Apple Home users should take note of. more…
HomeKit Weekly highlights Homey's new Device Updates feature, demonstrating the true potential of Matter in smart homes. Firmware updates have long been a challenge for smart home devices, but Homey's solution simplifies the process for both users and developers. The feature allows users to update Matter, Z-Wave, and Zigbee devices directly within the Homey Mobile App or Web App, without needing to access manufacturer apps.
Homey handles all aspects of the update, from delivery to notification upon completion. The launch of Device Updates includes support from major vendors such as IKEA, Aeotec, INNR, Niko, Inovelli, Zooz, frient, ThirdReality, EcoDim, HeatIt, Namron, amina, CTM Lyng, and Nous. For Matter devices, Homey relies on the Connectivity Standards Alliance's Distributed Compliance Ledger (DCL) to fetch firmware updates.
The DCL is a trusted public registry for Matter products, published by manufacturers, ensuring that updates are reliable and compatible. Homey Pro and Homey Pro mini can also act as Matter Controllers and Thread Border Routers, enabling compatibility with Eve devices without requiring any changes to the user's Apple Home setup. This development marks a significant step towards interoperability in the smart home industry, as promised by the Matter standard.
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