Smart Home

Home Assistant’s new Matter server: what changes, and why it matters for your Thread network

Home Assistant has rebuilt its Matter engine on matter.js, adding Matter 1.5.1, Thread 1.4 and a network map. A newer beta brings two-way audio for Matter cameras.

By OwnYourStack Admin · Published

Home Assistant artwork for the new Matter server announcement
Home Assistant's rebuilt Matter server © Home Assistant / Open Home Foundation

Matter is now used by more than a third of Home Assistant installations, and the software that powers it has just had its biggest overhaul since launch.

What has changed

In a post on 23 June 2026, the Open Home Foundation announced that its Matter Server has been rebuilt on matter.js, an open-source TypeScript implementation of the Matter standard. It replaces the earlier Python server that sat on top of the official C++ Matter SDK. The new version ships as the Matter Server app 9.0, described as a fully compatible replacement: updating the app is enough, and your data is migrated automatically on first start.

According to the post, Matter runs in 38% of Home Assistant instances, making it the twelfth most-used integration.

What you get

  • Speed and reliability: faster start-up, faster device reconnection, more responsive networks and more reliable over-the-air updates.
  • Matter 1.5.1: improved support for cameras, doorbells and closures. Matter 1.6 is described as coming soon.
  • Thread 1.4: through an updated OpenThread Border Router app, which you need to update as well.
  • A network map: the web interface now draws your Thread and Wi-Fi networks, with each device shown as a node (leader, router, sleepy or other end device) and links coloured green, orange or red by signal quality. It is the quickest way to find the weak link when a battery sensor keeps dropping off.

The one change to check

For security, uncertified devices carrying an official development or test certificate can no longer be added out of the box. If you have homemade or prototype Matter devices, they may no longer commission. The server also now checks certificate revocation data when you add a device.

As of Matter Alpha’s report, the server can already view, stream and control Matter cameras and doorbells, while the Home Assistant interface and automations still need more work before you can use them fully.

Cameras get two-way audio in the beta

On 20 October, Matter Alpha reported a new beta release of the server. It adds a WebRTC camera API and a talkback option that enables two-way audio on compatible Matter cameras and doorbells such as the Aqara Camera Hub G350. It also lays the groundwork for Matter 1.6.1, upgrades matter.js to 0.18.0, adds guest PIN support for door locks, and recognises the Aqara Multi-Sensor FP400’s custom clusters and IKEA’s radiator-valve calibration. This is a beta: do not install it on a home you rely on.

Should you update?

  1. Take a full Home Assistant backup first.
  2. Update the Matter Server app to 9.x, then the OpenThread Border Router app.
  3. Open the new network view and look for red links or isolated devices.
  4. Test your automations that rely on Matter devices over a day or two.

For most people the stable 9.x release is a straightforward win; leave the beta to the enthusiasts.

You might also like