Build a Matter-Ready Smart Home

Updated August 24, 2026 · Smart Homes Guides Editorial Team

Start with the platform you already use

Choose Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa or SmartThings as your main control surface, then favor Matter-certified products when their features meet your needs.

Understand the two roles

Matter is the common application standard. Thread is a low-power mesh network used by many battery-powered devices. A Thread border router connects that mesh to your home network.

Recommended order

1. Strengthen Wi-Fi coverage.
2. Choose a Matter controller.
3. Add one room and one routine at a time.
4. Keep device firmware current.