### You No Longer Have to Rely on Ikea’s Own App
HomeKit compatibility previously commanded a significant price premium when purchasing smart home devices, but the Matter standard is altering that dynamic – and Ikea is fully embracing this shift.
The company reports that it has over 20 new budget-friendly Matter-compatible smart home products in development, with intentions to branch out into entirely new product categories as well.
#### A Brief Overview of Matter and HomeKit
Initially, brands looking to provide HomeKit compatibility had to adhere to an Apple-specific framework and undergo device approval. The Matter standard removes both requirements, making any Matter-compatible device automatically compatible with HomeKit, Google Home, Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings. At the start of this year, all Matter devices receive the *Works With Apple Home* badge without the need for additional testing.
#### 20+ Matter Devices on the Way from Ikea
Ikea’s foray into the smart home sector was significant because it brought a new level of cost-effectiveness, but the anticipated HomeKit support took a considerable amount of time to materialize! However, this is all changing, as the company informed The Verge that it is reintroducing its line, and all upcoming products will support both Matter and Threads (the mesh networking capability that allows smart home devices to communicate commands amongst themselves).
Commencing in January, the Swedish furniture powerhouse will unveil more than 20 new Matter-over-Thread smart lighting fixtures, sensors, and remotes with “additional product types and styles to follow,” David Granath of Ikea of Sweden shared with The Verge. These upcoming products are part of the company’s ongoing ambition to streamline its smart home offerings to be as easy to use and affordable for as many consumers as possible.
#### Will Feature New Product Categories
The current Dirigera hub will receive an over-the-air update to support both Matter and Threads standards. This update will primarily extend support to product categories that Ikea currently provides – mainly lighting and sensors – but the company hints at potential expansion into other smart home areas later next year.
Initially, Dirigera will only support the Matter device types that Ikea already offers — meaning no robot vacuums, door locks, or refrigerators will be included. However, Granath indicates that as they release more smart home products, the hub will be upgraded to accommodate additional device types.
HomeKit users will not need the hub, as it will be possible to set up and manage all the new products directly via Apple’s Home app. Ikea asserts that affordability remains a crucial focus, and the new offerings will likely start at under $10.
#### Featured Products & Accessories
Ikea’s dedication to affordability and alignment with the Matter standard positions it as a noteworthy contender in the smart home industry, facilitating the integration of smart technology into consumers’ homes without the reliance on proprietary applications.
