Last week we were given some exciting news about the progress of Project CHIP (Connected Home Over IP), a push toward standardization of smart home technologies that make use of standard IP protocols across an open-source platform that some of the biggest companies are backing. It would allow for a vast ecosystem of products that openly support one another. A great vision compared to the segregated smart home market we have now.
Of course, many are likely already wondering what this is going to do to the past attempts at bringing companies together like this. Specifically, technologies like Z-Wave and Zigbee, that have been around for a while now. Many consumers have built out complicated yet joyous smart home setups with these protocols. However, what if Project CHIP succeeds in taking over as the new standard? I mean, if they deliver on the promise, there is little chance it won’t blow up into a vastly supported idea between all of the companies for years to come.
One may think it is time to stop adding new devices using the current options and prepare for this change. However, thankfully, there shouldn’t be the case. CHIP will come close to Zigbee in some ways (although it is still a completely different protocol), which could make it easier for Zigbee products to adapt in the future. Z-Wave isn’t so much the case, but it is still more than possible. Instead of replacing all of these devices, it could be as simple as a new Z-Wave hub that centrally supports CHIP and does the job of bridging things together into one system. Allowing you to use everything you already have along with the new CHIP devices that enter the market. The same may apply to Zigbee.
The idea is a universal coverage of support, bringing everything together. So why wouldn’t they work hard at making sure the new protocol has a way of already supporting many things already in existence. It would sure make it easier to hit the ground running. Working with an open-source platform, like it is, makes it all the easier for these other companies to find a way to play ball with what they have. Kind of like adding Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant support after the fact (only this would be far more powerful).
So it is best to assume at this point that you shouldn’t have much to worry about. Outside of maybe a new/updated version of whatever hub (ie, SmartThings, Hubitat, Vera, etc) you use to bring everything together with (when the time comes). Although even that might not be necessary since the hub is already connected to the network. Meaning it could be as easy as a firmware update to bridge support somehow.
Regardless, we know for sure until Project CHIP-supported devices begin rolling into the world. At earliest, the end of this year and more likely going into next.
