Thread: The Smart Home Standard You Need to Know | WIRED
- Originally developed by Nest before its acquisition by Google in 2014, Thread has been in development since 2011.
- The Thread specification is freely available, though adopters must agree to an end-user license agreement (EULA).
- The most recent version, Thread 1.4, launched in 2024, introducing credential sharing.
A Brief History of Thread
Originally developed by Nest before its acquisition by Google in 2014, Thread has been in development since 2011. Conceived as a low-power mesh networking technology for internet-of-things (IoT) devices, Thread gained momentum with the formation of the Thread Group in 2014. This group is responsible for developing the technology and promoting its adoption as an industry standard. Initial members included ARM, Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm, and have since expanded to include Apple and Amazon, among others.
The Thread specification is freely available, though adopters must agree to an end-user license agreement (EULA). The technology has evolved over time, with new versions and features released periodically. Importantly, new versions are backward compatible, ensuring that newer devices can work alongside older ones. In some cases, older Thread devices can be upgraded to the latest version, though this isn’t always possible.
The most recent version, Thread 1.4, launched in 2024, introducing credential sharing. This allows networks formed within different ecosystems – such as Apple Home, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa – and utilizing different Thread Border Routers to function as a single, unified mesh network, rather than several separate ones. While the Thread 1.4 specification is available, widespread adoption by manufacturers and subsequent certification processes take time.
More information about Thread can be found on the official Thread Group website.
How Does Thread Work With Matter?
Thread provides the connectivity foundation for devices, while Matter defines the communication language they use. Thread supports various application layers, including Matter, and can even support multiple layers simultaneously. Matter leverages Thread, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet for device connectivity. Battery-powered, low-bandwidth devices typically utilize Thread, while high-bandwidth, always-on devices (like security cameras) generally opt for Wi-Fi. Matter also employs Bluetooth LE for the initial setup of certain devices.
Thread vs. Zigbee
Zigbee predates Thread and is based on similar wireless technology. Like Thread, it creates robust mesh networks, incorporates secure encryption, and is well-suited for low-power devices. However, Zigbee’s proprietary application and network layers necessitate a dedicated hub to act as a gateway for connections. In contrast, Thread is based on IPv6, enabling seamless integration with existing IP-based networks through any Thread Border Router. Thread also offers lower latency than Zigbee, resulting in faster response times for smart home devices.
The Expanding Ecosystem
The smart home ecosystem continues to grow, with a variety of devices now supporting Thread and Matter. Amazon offers the Echo (4th Gen), Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen), Echo Show 15 (second-gen), Echo Show 21 (second-gen), and Echo Hub. Google provides the Nest Hub (2nd Gen), Nest Hub Max, Nest Wifi, Nest Wifi Pro, and Google TV Streamer 4K. Apple supports the technology through the HomePod (2nd Gen) and HomePod Mini, alongside Apple TV 4K (2nd and 3rd generation). Samsung offers SmartThings Station, Hub v3, Hub Dongle, and a range of Smart TVs (including the CU8000, CU7000, and NEO QLED 8K models). Aqara also contributes with the Smart Hub M3, and Homey Pro provides another option for central control.
Challenges and Future Outlook
While Thread and Matter promise a more interoperable smart home experience, challenges remain. The adoption of Thread 1.4, with its credential sharing capabilities, is still in its early stages. Ikea’s recent struggles with connecting its new smart home gear, as reported on , highlight the ongoing complexities of implementing these technologies and ensuring a smooth user experience. The need for compatible Border Routers and the potential for compatibility issues between devices from different manufacturers are ongoing concerns.
Despite these hurdles, the momentum behind Thread and Matter is significant. As more manufacturers embrace these standards, and as the ecosystem matures, the promise of a truly unified and interoperable smart home is becoming increasingly attainable. The ability to create a single, seamless mesh network across multiple ecosystems represents a major step forward in simplifying the smart home experience for consumers.