Samsung Launches a Matter Partner Program
As the market awaits Matter certified smart home devices, Samsung SmartThings has announced it is working with several brands ahead of the official launch to ensure their products will be compatible with the platform. The partners, which include companies such as Eve Systems, Aqara, Netatmo, and Wemo, manufacture a diverse range of devices from light bulbs and switches to motion sensors and smart locks. Samsung says the new testing program, named the Partner Early Access Program, allows manufacturers the opportunity to test devices and Matter interoperability with SmartThings hub-enhanced devices including Galaxy devices and new Samsung TVs and Family Hub refrigerators. The program is meant as a complement, not a replacement for, the official Matter certification process through the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA).
The NPD Take:
- Samsung’s PEAR program will help maintain excitement for the standard as the industry awaits its unveiling this Fall. Interestingly, some companies that have signed up for the early testing program, including Eve and Aqara, have not historically been compatible with the SmartThings platform, so the development of Matter will be a true test of the specification’s capabilities.
TP-Link Embraces the Affordable Smart Home
Though TP-Link is best known for its Wi-Fi routers, the company is trying to grow its presence in smart home products, launching the Tapo line of security cameras and LED lights. The cameras are focused on price conscious consumers and includes 2K resolution security cameras for indoor and outdoor use. The cameras can record on microSD storage or in the cloud via the Tapo Care subscription service which includes 30 days of recording history and enhancements such as baby crying detection. Most notably, the Tapo line is focused on budget-minded consumers with indoor cameras starting at $30 and outdoor models starting at $50. The Tapo Smart L900 (LED light strip) offers a 33-foot pack for $45.
The NPD Take:
- With a long history in home networking and connectivity, it is not a surprise to see TP-Link enter the smart home market with more products. With a recognized brand name and aggressively priced products, TP-Link joins a growing list of companies disrupting the price landscape in the home automation market.
- Consumers have shown a willingness to invest in lower cost security cameras over the last year, as this trend continues, TP-Link and other entry-priced brands will pose an even stronger challenge to higher priced brands on the market.