Matter Bridge vs. Matter Controller: Key Differences Explained

This article explores the differences between a Matter Bridge and a Matter Controller in the context of the Matter smart home interoperability protocol.

Introduction:

Matter, developed by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), formerly known as the Zigbee Alliance, is an open-source smart home protocol designed to enable seamless communication between smart home devices from different manufacturers. It achieves this regardless of their underlying communication technologies like WiFi, Ethernet, or Thread.

Matter facilitates the integration of non-Matter devices and networks into the Matter ecosystem, offering numerous benefits such as:

• Improved interoperability
• Increased reliability
• Enhanced security

For a deeper understanding, refer to the Matter over WiFi architecture and its functional elements.

What is a Matter Bridge?

A Matter Bridge acts as a connection point, linking non-Matter devices or networks to the Matter network. This allows devices that don’t natively support Matter to communicate with Matter-enabled devices. Essentially, it bridges the gap, enabling Zigbee or Z-Wave devices to be integrated into a Matter-based smart home system.

The Matter Bridge functions as a translator, converting commands between different protocols.

Example of a Matter Bridge:

• Philips Hue Bridge (2nd and 3rd generation): This bridge connects non-Matter devices, supporting Zigbee and Bluetooth protocols, to the Matter network. It provides a user interface to control connected devices and is compatible with various light bulbs and devices.

What is a Matter Controller?

A Matter Controller manages and controls Matter devices within a smart home system. It typically provides a user interface, such as a mobile app or voice assistant, to control these devices and automate routines.

The Matter Controller can also act as a hub, connecting other smart home devices like sensors, cameras, and thermostats.

Example of a Matter Controller:

• Nest Hub (2nd gen) from Google: This device offers a touchscreen interface and voice control, integrating with other smart home devices like speakers and cameras. It features a 7-inch smart display that allows users to stream videos and music from services like Netflix, YouTube Music, and Apple Music. Users can control devices with a simple tap or by saying “Ok Google” to control smart lights and view photos from Google Photos.

Matter Bridge in a Thread Network

In a Thread network, the Matter Bridge serves the same function as described above. It’s used to connect non-Thread devices to the Thread network, allowing them to communicate with other Thread devices and be managed by a Matter Controller.

Key Difference: Matter Bridge vs. Matter Controller

The primary distinction between a Matter Bridge and a Matter Controller lies in their roles:

• Matter Bridge: Enables non-Matter devices to communicate with the Matter network and its devices.
• Matter Controller: Manages and controls the Matter devices within the network.