Smart lighting specialist LIFX (link) is launching a beta test for Matter over Thread. As the company, which is owned by U.S. lighting manufacturer Feit Electric, announced on Reddit (link), users of a Matter-compatible product will soon have a choice: Instead of Wi-Fi, they will also be able to use the Thread wireless protocol for the connection. LIFX announced this step at CES 2026 but had not previously explained how the switch would work.
The Thread-Capable Chip Is Already On Board
It now turns out that every Lifx product sold with a Matter logo on the packaging already has a chipset capable of running either protocol. As reported by matteralpha.com (link), this is a multiprotocol chip from Espressif (ESP32-C6) that, in addition to meeting the technical requirements for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, also supports Thread or Zigbee.
The feature is now being put to the test as part of a beta program. Lifx wants to test how well Thread performs with a larger number of devices and across different networks. The devices are not permanently tied to either transport. According to the manufacturer, users can switch back to the other protocol after moving to Thread.
As always, Thread operation requires a Border Router. Lifx cites the Apple HomePod mini and Google Nest Hub as examples, but many other devices are also suitable. Our overview of Matter-compatible devices can be used to specifically search for Border Routers.
Beta Testers Can Sign Up on the Lifx Website
Users who already own a Matter-enabled LIFX product (link) can register for the beta test on the manufacturer’s website (link). If accepted, they will receive instructions for the software update as well as periodic surveys about their experience with Thread. In particular, the company says it is interested in which Border Router and Wi-Fi router model participants are using at home.
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