Aqara unveiled its new Matter hub, the Aqara Hub M3, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 in Las Vegas. In addition to Thread, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and infrared support, this Smart Home hub also supports Matter. This enables the integration of products from other manufacturers into the Aqara app, expanding possibilities for connecting and coordinating various smart devices.
New Protocols
Compared to the Aqara Hub M2, the M3 introduces several new protocols for device connectivity, including Thread and Bluetooth. As a Thread Border Router, the hub allows direct connection and control of Thread devices via the Aqara app. With Matter and Thread support, it is now possible to integrate devices from other manufacturers, offering new automation possibilities through the Aqara app. Aqara notes that support for non-Aqara devices will be gradually added over time and may not be fully available at product launch.
Features
The Aqara Hub M3 includes an infrared feature, enabling cloning of remote control signals for devices like air conditioners or televisions. This allows remote operation of these devices via the Aqara app and, through Matter, via platforms like Google Home or Apple HomeKit. The hub emits the same signal as your remote control and its 360-degree IR blaster ensures better coverage for air conditioners or televisions.
Additionally, the Aqara Hub M3 features a 95-decibel speaker, making it suitable for use as an alarm system or for playing specific voice messages. The hub does not include a camera or microphone and features local end-to-end encryption for privacy protection. Zigbee-based Aqara devices can receive Matter support through this hub. For example, the Aqara Door and Window Sensor P2 with Matter and Thread support gains additional features via the hub, such as sensitivity adjustments and an alarm when someone attempts to tamper with the sensor. You will also be able to program the button on this device through the Aqara Hub M3, allowing you to start an automation or control other devices.
With these additions, the Aqara app effectively becomes a new Smart Home platform where users can control and automate all their devices. Initial shipments of the Aqara Hub M3 are expected in Q2 or Q3 2024.
Check also our article with overview of Smart Home hubs with Matter and Thread support.
