With the release of version 5.0, openHAB (link) adds support for the Matter standard. The open-source platform for smart homes is thus taking another step toward true cross-vendor interoperability. Its new Matter Binding – as plug-ins are called on the openHAB platform – not only lets users control Matter devices but also exposes openHAB itself to other smart home ecosystems.
Two Roles, One Matter Binding
Until now, Home Assistant has been the undisputed frontrunner among open-source platforms when it comes to Matter. With openHAB 5.0 (link), the longest-standing project in this space is catching up. Founded in 2010 by German developer Kai Kreuzer, openHAB doesn’t boast the same number of active users, but it supports a wide range of technologies and protocols. Its new Matter Binding (link) provides two core functions:
- Client mode: openHAB can integrate Matter-certified devices like lights, outlets, and switches into its own automations. “More than 30 device types” are supported, according to the developers. As usual, a Thread Border Router is required for products that use the Thread radio protocol.
- Bridge mode: Devices already integrated into openHAB can be exposed to external ecosystems via a Matter Bridge – making them available in Apple Home, Google Home, or Samsung SmartThings. According to the description, “most common Matter device types” are supported, and more are to be added with each new openHAB version.
Under the hood, the Binding is based on the matter.js Software Developer Kit (link). Project manager Ingo Fischer provides further details about this JavaScript/TypeScript implementation of the smart home standard in an interview here: “An Alternative to the Official Matter SDK.”
The SDK also powers another open-source smart home platform: ioBroker (link). Originally, the JavaScript-based platform inspired the development of matter.js. ioBroker now offers its own Adapter – their term for plug-ins – which supports both control and bridge functions (link). However, Matter support in ioBroker is still in beta.
In any case, the development of openHAB, ioBroker and Home Assistant shows that the cross-manufacturer standard is beginning to gain real traction across the open-source smart home landscape.
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