Homebridge, the free software that enables non-Apple smart devices to work with Apple HomeKit, has officially released version 2.0 after a lengthy beta period. This update introduces foundational support for Matter, the new universal smart home standard, allowing enhanced interoperability between HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home, and other ecosystems.
- Homebridge 2.0 brings initial Matter support after three years of beta.
- Enables Matter devices to appear in Apple Home and other platforms.
- Expands device compatibility for non-HomeKit gadgets like robot vacuums.
What happened
Homebridge, the open-source server software that allows Apple HomeKit to connect with non-HomeKit devices, officially launched version 2.0 on May 4th. This is the first stable release after over three years of beta testing. The new release introduces the foundational support for Matter, a unified smart home communication standard designed to work across platforms like Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit.
This Matter support enables Homebridge to function not only as a HomeKit bridge but also as a Matter bridge. That means users can now integrate Matter-enabled devices into Apple Home through Homebridge. It also allows bridging of Matter devices into other ecosystems such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, and Home Assistant. The update targets filling compatibility gaps and expanding device support, including new categories like robot vacuums.
Why it matters
Apple has gradually shifted to adopting Matter as the mechanism for new device types rather than extending HomeKit directly. For example, robot vacuums are supported on Apple Home only via Matter, not native HomeKit profiles. Homebridge’s Matter integration helps bridge this gap by enabling these devices to appear correctly and access additional functionality within Apple Home, such as room-specific controls.
Moreover, the rollout of Matter by device makers has been slow and inconsistent, so Homebridge continues to play a key role in connecting legacy and non-HomeKit devices. By expanding its scope to include Matter, Homebridge ensures continued relevance and utility for users wanting a unified platform that supports both established HomeKit plugins and emerging Matter devices, supporting over 4,000 plugins in its ecosystem.
What to watch next
Although version 2.0 introduces the initial framework for Matter support, full compatibility will depend on individual plugin updates, meaning device support will improve gradually over time. The Homebridge team aims to create a unified platform offering seamless integration across HomeKit and Matter, which will involve ongoing development and collaboration with plugin maintainers.
Users can look forward to better interoperability across their smart home devices, with Matter support enabling devices connected through Homebridge to appear on multiple platforms. Meanwhile, monitoring plugin updates and platform announcements will be key to understanding how quickly new device categories and advanced features become available within this expanded ecosystem.