Apple has today released iOS 16.1, and with the update comes a new HomePod 16.1 update which includes support for unified smart home protocol Matter, which enables a wide variety of accessories to work together, across platforms, and provide more choice and interoperability for connecting smart home products from different manufacturers.
With Matter support, smart home devices will be able to support one protocol to have their accessories work across different supported operating systems. The one protocol ensures interoperability between smart home products from different companies, making it easier to find new smart home accessories that are compatible between devices.
With iOS 16.1, Apple has added a new “Matter Accessories” section to the Settings app. The new section will show all added Matter-supported smart home accessories added to the iPhone, which can be controlled through the Home app on iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac.
Matter is backed by Apple, Google, Amazon, Samsung, and other smart home manufacturers.
Apple says HomePod 16.1 also “includes performance and stability improvements.”
