The smart home standard created by Apple, Google, and others is enhancing the way cameras connect to different devices. The Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) released Matter 1.5.1, building on the camera and video doorbell support introduced with the Matter 1.5 update last November. Although 1.5.1 is a minor update, it provides several improvements beneficial to both end users and device manufacturers.
The key update is more efficient camera streaming, reducing bandwidth requirements when multiple people or systems access the same feed. With Matter 1.5.1, cameras can deliver multiple video streams at the same time, tailored to different needs. For example, a video recorder would receive a high-resolution stream for archival, while phones and tablets would get a lower resolution stream optimized for mobile use.
Other improvements include support for HEIC images, which offer better quality and smaller file sizes than JPEGs, and the addition of HLS and DASH streaming formats for enhanced compatibility with modern cloud and media platforms. Matter 1.5.1 also brings improved positioning and movement for pan-tilt-zoom cameras, while doorbell devices can play more than just the default chime – including fun seasonal alternatives – and trigger automations when the chime starts playing.