# Aqara Upgrades HomeKit Offering with Enhanced Matter Integration
Aqara, a prominent player in the smart home industry, has once again captured attention with its recent announcement about improving its Matter integration. This update is especially noteworthy for individuals who depend on Apple’s HomeKit as their main smart home system.
## What’s New?
This week, Aqara announced that it is launching its Advanced Matter Bridging feature across all Matter-compatible hubs. This rollout includes not just the newest Aqara Hub M3 but also older versions like the M2, M1S, E1, and the Camera Hub G3. Previously, the Advanced Matter Bridging feature was restricted to the Hub M3; however, thanks to a complimentary firmware update, it is now available for a wider array of devices.
## How Does Advanced Matter Bridging Work?
The Advanced Matter Bridging feature enables the unique functionalities of Aqara to be leveraged within third-party Matter platforms. For HomeKit users, this implies that they can establish scenes and signals within the Aqara app, which will subsequently show up in the Home app as virtual plugs or motion sensors. These virtual devices can be incorporated into HomeKit automations, enriching the entire smart home experience.
Additionally, functionalities like presence detection from the Aqara FP2 sensor and AI alerts from Aqara cameras, previously confined to the Aqara app, can now be accessed within HomeKit. This integration greatly broadens the possibilities for HomeKit users, affording more advanced automation and monitoring capabilities.
## Expanded Compatibility with Matter Devices
Beyond the bridging features, the latest update improves the Aqara Home app’s compatibility with over 50 types of Matter-enabled devices, including robotic vacuums and beyond. This firmware upgrade represents a significant advancement in Aqara’s dedication to enhancing Matter interoperability, making it a beneficial addition for HomeKit fans. The update will be rolled out through a new version of the Aqara Home app (version 5.1.9) and a firmware update for the M3 hub and G5 Pro camera hub (version 4.3.5) later this month.
## Future Developments: Thread Border Routers
Aqara has also teased exciting advancements in development. The company indicated that its Thread Border Routers will soon gain the ability to communicate over your local area network (LAN). While this feature is still being developed, a rollout is anticipated in the second quarter of 2025, further improving the connectivity and functionality of Aqara devices.
## Conclusion
Aqara continues to reinforce its status as a leading option for smart home solutions, particularly for those engaged in the HomeKit ecosystem. The launch of Advanced Matter Bridging not only augments the functionality of Aqara devices but also paves the way for enhanced integration with other Matter-enabled products. For anyone aspiring to expand their HomeKit setup cost-effectively, Aqara’s offerings deserve consideration. With Matter playing a pivotal role in broadening the availability of HomeKit devices, this recent update is a crucial advancement for smart home aficionados.
For further information on Aqara’s HomeKit and Matter products, you can visit their [Amazon page](https://amzn.to/3Yg51bV).
