Zigbee is a low-power, wireless mesh networking protocol designed for IoT applications. It operates primarily in the 2.4 GHz band (though it can use other frequencies). It is optimized for low-data-rate, low-power devices that need to communicate over short to medium distances. Unlike point-to-point systems like Bluetooth, Zigbee forms a self-healing mesh where devices can relay signals, making it resilient in complex environments. Its nodal structure means you can scale it.
Zigbee plays a key role in Matter, the new smart home standard aiming to unify IoT devices across ecosystems (Google, Apple, Amazon). Zigbee and Matter (formerly “Project CHIP” – Connected Home over IP) are closely connected because of their shared goal: device interoperability across brands and ecosystems. The same group that developed Zigbee is now spearheading Matter, meaning there is technical and strategic alignment between the two.
Matter uses Thread (another low-power mesh protocol) as its preferred transport layer. Since Zigbee and Thread both use the same IEEE 802.15.4 radio standard, they are technically compatible, making it easy for manufacturers to integrate legacy Zigbee products into Matter ecosystems.
Scalability is the key. Zigbee’s deep roots in building automation, energy monitoring, and industrial IoT(IIoT) mean that its integration with Matter opens doors for cross-industry standardization. Matter-certified hubs/bridges (like Amazon Echo or Philips Hue Bridge) act as translators between Zigbee and Matter networks. What you are seeing is the evolution of the core principles of scaled home automation across mesh networks into a wider sphere of influence.
The core benefit for users is that previously siloed home automation tools can now integrate into a more complete system using one, or more, mobile devices. Our team uses ZigBee for home automation as an alternative to WiFi and Bluetooth. Bluetooth functions well in the short range, (opening and closing doors). WiFi based apps work remotely (ambient heating while at work) and ZigBee covers more applications, creating a cohesive network (aligning solar cell usage with home heating or HVAC).
