IKEA launches new smart home range with 21 Matter-compatible products

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Matter, Zigbee, Thread and Compatibility

  • Matter is seen as an application‑layer standard that unifies how devices describe themselves and are controlled, unlike Zigbee where vendors often defined their own command “APIs” on top.
  • Thread is described as a Zigbee‑derived low‑power mesh transport used by many Matter devices; others use Wi‑Fi or Ethernet.
  • Several commenters clarify IKEA is not fully “switching”: the Dirigera hub already bridges existing Zigbee devices into Matter, and newer kits are expected to be Matter‑over‑Thread while still supporting older Zigbee gear via the hub.
  • Backwards compatibility through the hub is praised, but people using IKEA Zigbee devices directly with third‑party coordinators (Zigbee2MQTT, ZHA, deCONZ) worry about future availability of cheap IKEA Zigbee hardware.

Impact on Existing Setups

  • Power users with Home Assistant and Zigbee coordinators say they never needed multiple vendor hubs; Matter mostly benefits mainstream users who currently juggle many proprietary apps and bridges.
  • Some note that while Zigbee’s Zigbee Cluster Library already tried to standardize behavior, adoption was spotty; Matter is seen as a more strongly enforced version of that idea.

Hubs, Controllers and Ecosystems

  • Suggested controllers include IKEA Dirigera, Apple TV/HomePod mini, Google/Nest devices, and Home Assistant with new combo Zigbee/Thread dongles.
  • There is discussion of using phones as Matter controllers without a separate hub, with caveats around reliability and always‑on availability.

Privacy, Local Control and Security

  • Many participants prioritize fully local control without cloud dependence. Matter’s requirement for local operation is welcomed, but some fear IP‑based devices and big‑tech involvement could re‑enable telemetry and vendor lock‑in (especially via Thread border routers).
  • Zigbee/Z‑Wave are appreciated because end devices generally have no direct internet access; some prefer to keep using them for that reason.

Reliability and Product Quality

  • Experiences with IKEA Zigbee are mixed: some report rock‑solid operation and good value; others report flaky plugs, remotes dropping connections, and blinds with mechanical and noise issues.
  • Previous IKEA blinds (FYRTUR/TREDANSEN) are noted as discontinued; some speculate reliability problems and hope for a quieter, redesigned line.

Use Cases, Desires, and Gaps

  • Common valued use cases: open/close sensors for doors and gates, smart plugs for scheduling and child control, and quiet, reliable blinds.
  • Several lament the absence (so far) of Matter‑over‑Thread wall switches/dimmers and garage‑door‑like device types.
  • Some express “smart home fatigue,” but see Matter + IKEA’s price point as promising if it stays local, open, and doesn’t degrade into cloud lock‑in.