Matter has released version 1.4.1 of its smart home protocol, introducing new features that are designed to make it simpler for users to set up their smart home devices. The update brings changes that should help reduce the number of support calls and returns, while also making it easier for manufacturers to meet regulatory requirements. This release adds three main features: Enhanced Setup Flow, Multi-Device Setup QR Code, and Onboarding Info in NFC Tag. Each of these features is focused on making device setup more direct and less confusing for users, while also giving device makers more flexibility in how they handle compliance and onboarding.
The Enhanced Setup Flow, also known as ESF, changes the way users go through the process of connecting a new smart device. Now, the commissioner app, which is the app used to manage a smart home ecosystem, can display the manufacturer’s terms and conditions during setup. This includes gathering customer consent, which is sent to the device so it can adjust its functions as needed. Before this update, users often had to switch to a manufacturer’s specific app just to accept terms and conditions, a process called Custom Commissioning Flow. Now, ESF allows these terms to be shown and accepted within the main smart home app, which saves users from having to bounce between different apps. If the commissioner app does not support ESF, the old process can still be used. This change helps device makers stay in line with different regulations and makes the setup process smoother for users.
The Multi-Device Setup QR Code is another update in Matter 1.4.1. In the past, users who bought multi-packs of devices, such as smart plugs or light bulbs, had to scan a separate QR code for each device and wait for each one to be set up before moving on to the next. With the new multi-device QR code feature, users can scan a single code to set up several devices at once, but only if the commissioner app supports this feature. This change saves time and makes it easier for people who are adding more than one smart device to their home at the same time.
Onboarding Info in NFC Tag is the third new feature in this release. This allows manufacturers to put the same information that is found in QR codes into an NFC tag. NFC, or near-field communication, lets users tap their cell phone to a device to start the setup. This is especially useful for devices that are hard to move or see, like light bulbs that are already in a fixture or smart switches where the QR code might be hidden after installation. By adding onboarding info to NFC tags, manufacturers give users another way to connect their devices, which can be more convenient in certain situations.
Matter 1.4.1 is the first minor release for the protocol. It expands the certification program to cover new features like Enhanced Setup Flow and NFC Tags, which were only provisional before. The update also brings small fixes and reliability improvements that help raise the overall quality of Matter devices. These minor releases are meant to deliver new features more quickly, especially those that are ready to use but do not need to wait for a major update.
Matter’s 1.4.1 update shows a clear focus on making smart home technology easier to use and more flexible for both consumers and device makers. With the introduction of Enhanced Setup Flow, Multi-Device Setup QR Code, and NFC tags for onboarding, setting up devices should be more direct and less frustrating.
To learn more about these updates and how they can help with your smart home setup, visit the CSA website here.
