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Google has released a new update for the Google TV Streamer device, which at first glance appears to be a standard patch. In reality, however, it brings one of the most important changes for users of smart home systems. The update introduces support for Thread 1.4, the latest version of the communication protocol developed by the largest tech companies.
Smart home of different brands is finally set to work better
Thread is a modern network protocol used by devices compliant with the Matter standard. Its main task is to create a stable mesh network that operates independently of Wi-Fi and becomes stronger as more compatible devices are added. Until now, one of the biggest issues has been the separate Thread networks created by devices from various manufacturers. In practice, this meant that devices from Google, Apple, or other brands did not always work as smoothly as users expected. Thread 1.4 is set to solve this problem, allowing devices to form a single common network. However, the condition is updating all compatible devices to the latest version of the standard, which may take a few more months.
Greater range and simpler setup
The new version of Thread also introduces the Thread-over-Infrastructure feature, which allows existing Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections to be used to extend the range of smart home devices. The Google TV Streamer has also gained the ability to more easily share Thread network keys using QR codes. As a result, adding new devices to the smart home should be significantly simpler than before. Additionally, the Thread standard 1.4 has been designed to reduce energy consumption by smart home devices, which may lead to longer battery-powered device operation.
Although the Google TV Streamer update doesn't bring spectacular changes visible on the screen, it may turn out to be one of the most important for smart home users. Support for Thread 1.4 is expected to improve the collaboration of devices from various manufacturers, increase network stability, and simplify the configuration of the entire Matter ecosystem. For those developing their smart home, this is definitely one of the more interesting updates in recent months.
source: flatpanelshd
