IKEA has rolled out a major update for its Smart Home Hub Dirigera. With the new firmware version 2.805.6, the device becomes a fully functional Matter Controller for the first time. This means users can now manage Matter and Thread devices from various manufacturers directly in the IKEA Home Smart App – previously, this was limited to IKEA’s own products.
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Dirigera: From Matter Bridge to Controller
Previously, the Dirigera Hub served as a Matter Bridge: IKEA devices connected via Zigbee could thus be integrated into other Matter-enabled systems like Apple Home, Google Home or Samsung SmartThings. The new update goes significantly further: from now on, the hub itself can manage devices from other brands as a Matter Controller. Adding new devices works via the IKEA Home Smart App by scanning a Matter QR code.
Thread Border Router integrated
Additionally, the update turns Dirigera into a Thread Border Router. This allows Thread devices to be integrated directly into the home network without requiring extra routers or bridges. For example, smart plugs from other brands can now be added – although currently still in a beta phase, where some detailed functions like power consumption displays are missing.
Beta phase: Features not yet final
These new features are currently available as beta features and must be manually activated in the app. This requires the IKEA Home Smart App version 1.51 for iOS or 1.47 for Android. The update itself (version 2.805.6) has been rolling out gradually since early July. According to user reports, pairing with third-party devices already works, but in some cases there are still limitations or missing displays.
Strategy: More openness in the smart home
With this step, IKEA strengthens its position in the smart home market. The company relies on open standards like Matter, Zigbee and Thread to create an ecosystem that consists of more than just its own products. Instead of closed systems, IKEA wants to offer users the ability to centrally control devices from different brands – and at a relatively affordable price: the Dirigera Hub currently costs around 60 euros.
Looking ahead: More devices in the pipeline
In parallel, IKEA is reportedly preparing new smart products: the Timmerflotte temperature and humidity sensor, which uses Thread, has already been registered with the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Observers expect that IKEA will expand its lineup with additional Matter- and Thread-compatible devices that can work directly with the Dirigera Hub.
Conclusion
With the July update, the Dirigera Hub is evolving from a pure bridge device into a true control center for cross-brand smart home solutions. While the new feature is still in beta testing, IKEA is clearly signaling: the future should be more open, flexible, and simpler – for users who do not want to be tied to a single system.
Sources: matter-smarthome.de, homekits.de, theverge.com
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