Thread 1.4 Released With Improved Interoperability and Better Network Performance

The Thread low-power wireless networking protocol for smart home devices has been updated to version 1.4, boosting interoperability and extending network reliability, reach, and performance.

The Thread Group is pleased to formally release its Thread 1.4 specification for implementation, and open its accompanying certification program for applications. With this, members can bring powerful enhancements to new and existing wireless IoT devices, as well as advanced sensor networks, which use Thread to create secure, private mesh networks. The implications for end users are significant. For example, users can add an 1.4 updated Matter-enabled device to any existing Thread network connected by a Thread 1.4 Border Router, regardless of software or hardware ecosystem. In addition to further improving interoperability, the 1.4 enhancements initially presented in January will also boost network range, security, and reliability for advanced sensor networks as well as improve IoT devices' energy conservation.

"There's been an exponential increase of Thread-certified devices in homes and smart buildings globally since the major smart home platforms adopted Thread," said Vividh Siddha, President of Thread Group. "From these real-world deployments, our members continue to discover inventive new ways for Thread to improve their end-customers' experience. Now, device manufacturers can implement 1.4, and offer exciting new features, improved device performance, and stronger app integrations."


With the Thread 1.4 update, device manufacturers can begin implementing the following features and enhancements:

● One mesh network, made easier. Regardless of the brand, smart home platform, or mobile OS, when adding an updated device or Thread Border Router, it will join the existing Thread network versus creating a new one. This results in one wider ranging, more reliable mesh, because Thread 1.4 standardizes how devices recognize and trust each other.

● Cloud connectivity. Thread 1.4-enabled Border Routers will gain a defined, standard path to the Internet. This gives manufacturers the ability to add more appealing, dynamic features, like window blinds that can self-adjust to weather changes, while end-users will have more reliable control, at home or off-site. Devices can also receive software updates and report diagnostics, which provides better technical support and lowers costs for installers.

● More reliability, robustness, and range, less complexity. Thread over Infrastructure enhancements allow Border Routers to use Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections to extend the Thread mesh network. This expanded infrastructure makes it easier to add new devices to the network, relocate an existing device, and for configurations to stay in sync. Plus, Thread devices at the edge of the network can be installed in far-reaching corners of or even on the exterior of homes and buildings with high reliability and robustness.


● Easier testing and troubleshooting. With newly standardized methods for Thread devices to provide network configuration and status data, product developers and installers can gain more visibility into Thread networks. This enables more robust network performance for end users, advanced troubleshooting features for installers and developers, and the potential for commercial-grade network monitoring and diagnostics.

● Secure, wireless onboarding for hard-to-reach places. Thread's commissioning at scale feature simplifies the process of wirelessly onboarding pre-installed devices in challenging locations, such as inside ceilings or walls. Instead of scanning physical install codes, Thread commissioning can be implemented over TLS (Transport Layer Security) with certificates. This authenticated commissioning can be done in proximity using a mobile device over a wireless connection like Bluetooth LE, making it ideal for professional installation and commercial building scenarios.

● New enhancements. Thread 1.4 also includes maintenance updates that enable more robust operation and performance across Thread mesh networks. These new features will enhance the deployment and performance of Thread-enabled devices and networks, ultimately improving the user experience.

There are already some smart home devices available that use Matter over Thread like the Eve Energy Outlet, Aqara Smart Lock U200, and Nanoleaf Essentials LED Lightstrip.

You can learn more about Thread at the link below!

Read More