iOS 18.4 Beta Introduces Matter Robot Vacuum Support in Apple Home App
Apple has released the first developer beta of iOS 18.4, which includes a notable new feature: support for robot vacuums in the Apple Home app through Matter. This exciting addition was spotted by 9to5Mac and confirmed by Smart Home Centre using a Switchbot S10, which has its own beta support for Matter.
What is Matter?
Matter is a new connectivity standard designed to simplify smart home devices. It aims to create a unified ecosystem where devices from different manufacturers can work together seamlessly. This standard is backed by major tech companies, including Apple, Google, and Amazon, ensuring broad industry support.
Switchbot S10 and Matter Support
The Switchbot S10 is one of the first robot vacuums to offer beta support for Matter. This integration allows users to control their robot vacuums directly from the Apple Home app, providing a more streamlined and cohesive smart home experience. With Matter support, users can expect improved interoperability and easier setup processes.
Benefits of Matter Support in iOS 18.4
The introduction of Matter support in iOS 18.4 brings several benefits:
- Unified Control: Users can manage all their smart home devices, including robot vacuums, from a single app.
- Enhanced Compatibility: Devices from different brands can work together, offering more flexibility in choosing smart home products.
- Simplified Setup: Matter aims to make the setup process more straightforward, reducing the hassle of configuring new devices.
How to Get Started with iOS 18.4 Beta
If you’re a developer or an enthusiast eager to try out the new features, you can download the iOS 18.4 beta from the Apple Developer website. Keep in mind that beta software may contain bugs and is not recommended for primary devices.
Conclusion
The addition of Matter robot vacuum support in iOS 18.4 is a significant step towards a more integrated and user-friendly smart home experience. As more devices adopt the Matter standard, users can look forward to a future where all their smart home gadgets work together harmoniously.
