Matter is changing the landscape of the smart home industry, with major players like Google, Apple, Amazon, and Samsung leading the charge. With each smart product that gains support for Matter, we take one step closer to a more connected future. 2020’s Nest Thermostat and the older Nest Thermostat E are two such products that have received an upgrade that bring support for the Matter protocol.
What is Matter?
Matter is a new protocol that connects smart home products regardless of the ecosystem they’re compatible with. Have Google, but want to use an Apple-only smart product? No problem—soon, anyway. Not everything has Matter support at this time, as the protocol is still young and things are still in development. The aim is to help the world create their smart home ecosystem in an easier way.
There are many smart products that are already Matter compatible from numerous manufacturers that work over thread, or with thread-border routers, that you can enjoy now—such as the Google 2020 Nest Thermostat and the Nest Thermostat E—but there are not a ton, so do your research before converting your ecosystem to Matter.
The Update
The new support for Matter is part of Google’s initiative to make its smart home devices more accessible and will be available in the coming weeks for the 2020 Nest Thermostat and Nest Thermostat E. The smart thermostat is a popular choice for those looking to control the temperature of their homes with their smartphones or voice assistant.
The update allows the 2020 Nest Thermostat and Nest Thermostat E to be controlled by the Google Home, of course, but also Apple Home, Amazon Alexa and Samsung SmartThings.
Get the Thermostat
The Nest Thermostat, released in 2020, is selling on Google’s website for $129.99 with rebates available. Just enter your zip code to find out what rebates and rewards are offered near you. In addition to potential savings up front, over time, Nest Thermostats can help you save on your electric bill and the scheduling feature is fantastic for cooling the house in these approaching warmer months right before you come home.
