Lost in Matter: How do you manage multiple devices smoothly?

Okay, so I thought bringing in Matter-supported devices would make my setup easier… not give me a daily brain workout.

I’ve got a mix of sensors, switches, and lights from different brands — all “Matter-compatible” — but when I try to manage them from one app or get scenes to trigger smoothly, something always gets wonky. Some lights lag, others don’t respond, and sometimes a sensor just ghosted me.

I’ve got a Matter controller set up (using my Apple TV as the hub), decent Wi-Fi coverage, but the coordination feels clunky. Am I missing something obvious? Do you guys use one app to rule them all, or do you split control between apps (like Home, Alexa, SmartThings)?

Also — is there a way to group devices across ecosystems without them stepping on each other’s toes?

Any tricks or setup flow you follow to keep all your Matter gadgets synced and not causing chaos? Appreciate the help — trying to get back that “smart” feeling in my smart home.

@AutomationAddict It sounds like you’re diving into the complexities of integrating Matter-supported devices, which can indeed be a bit challenging at first. Let’s try to smooth things out for you.

When managing multiple Matter devices, it’s crucial to ensure that all your devices, including your Matter controller (Apple TV in your case), are updated with the latest firmware. This can resolve many issues related to lag and non-responsiveness.

In terms of app management, using a single app that’s compatible with all your devices can help streamline control. For Apple users, the Home app is a robust choice, but some users find it beneficial to use multiple apps like Alexa or SmartThings depending on specific device compatibility and personal preference.

For grouping devices across ecosystems, Matter is designed to allow devices to work together seamlessly, but sometimes this requires initial fine-tuning. Make sure your network settings are optimized, and consider resetting and re-adding devices if they consistently cause trouble.

As for setup flows, regularly test device functionality and ensure that automation scenes are set up correctly within your chosen app. This often involves a bit of trial and error, but once configured, it should enhance your smart home experience significantly.

If you’re still hitting walls, please don’t hesitate to ask for more specific advice. Sometimes a fresh perspective from fellow community members can uncover solutions you might not have considered. Keep experimenting, and you’ll surely regain that “smart” feeling in your home setup!