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Google has released a new update for the Google TV Streamer device, which at first glance appears to be just a regular patch. However, it actually brings one of the most significant 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 technology companies.
Smart homes from various brands are finally set to work better
Thread is a modern networking protocol used by devices compatible 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. So far, one of the biggest issues has been separate Thread networks created by devices from different manufacturers. In practice, this meant that devices from Google, Apple, or other brands did not always cooperate as smoothly as users expected. Thread 1.4 aims to solve this problem, allowing devices to create a single common network. However, the condition is that all compatible devices are updated 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 the smart home. The Google TV Streamer has also gained the ability to share Thread network keys more easily using QR codes. This should make adding new devices to the smart home considerably simpler than before. Additionally, the Thread 1.4 standard has been designed to reduce energy consumption by smart home devices, which may result in longer battery life for powered devices.
Although the Google TV Streamer update does not introduce 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 different 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
