Apple and Google Update Smart Home Devices to Support Thread 1.4

Apple and Google are updating their smart home streaming devices to support Thread 1.4. The latest specification has arrived on compatible Apple TVs in the tvOS 17 developer beta and the Google TV Streamer through a software update. These updates lay the groundwork for the devices, which serve as Thread Border Routers, to implement Thread credential sharing.

This feature enables them to connect more easily to an existing Thread network rather than creating their own. Thread is one of the connectivity protocols the interoperability standard Matter runs on. The original plan was for Thread Border Routers to all work seamlessly together.

The updates from Apple and Google come as the smart home industry continues to move towards greater interoperability and ease of use. As consumers increasingly adopt multiple smart devices, the ability for these devices to work together seamlessly has become a priority. The addition of Thread 1.4 support on Apple TVs and Google TV Streamers brings them closer to achieving this goal.

With Thread credential sharing, users will be able to easily integrate their devices into an existing Thread network. Why this matters: The addition of Thread 1.4 support by Apple and Google has significant implications for the smart home industry. As more devices become compatible with Thread and Matter, consumers will have greater flexibility and ease of use when setting up and managing their smart home systems.

For developers and businesses, this update means that they can focus on building more sophisticated and interconnected smart home experiences. However, questions still remain about the long-term viability of Thread and Matter, and how these protocols will evolve to meet the changing needs of the smart home market.