The launch of the Matter protocol in 2022 aimed to transform the smart home landscape, yet progress has stalled significantly since then. Users continue to rely on multiple applications to manage their smart devices, contradicting the protocol's promise of unified control. Many still find themselves needing proprietary apps for various products, such as security cameras, which aren’t accessible through platforms like Alexa.
Despite the backing of major tech companies including Amazon, Google, and Apple, innovation in smart home technology seems to have taken a backseat. Observations from events like CES 2025 highlighted a trend where new devices lack originality, often resembling previous models rather than introducing novel features. The focus appears to be more on achieving Matter compatibility than fostering creative advancements.
This stagnation has led to frustration among users who anticipated a more integrated experience. While some smart devices have seen improvements, such as increased efficiency in robot vacuums, the overall landscape remains challenging for consumers seeking seamless smart home solutions.