Can Homey Pro join existing Thread network?

Questions & Help
1

Hello
Can Homey Pro join existing thread networks so I can use it like router (repeater?) (less like a BORDER router?
Thanks

3

As long as the devices are certified, it must be possible.

@robertklep

1 Like
4

Homey itself is not certified as bridge
Maybe I explained it bad. I actually need my Homey to server as “reperater” without adding devices via Homey directly

5

Hopefully when TREL (Thread Radio Encapsulation Link) is launched this will be a no brainer. With TREL TBR’s (Thread Border Routers) can talk to each other. In fact this will enable a larger network with automatic fall back options to better reachable TBR’s. This way the Thread network should become agnostic, read: manufacturer transparent.

6

With help from Gemini this answer (And I think it is correct :wink: )

While Homey Pro (Early 2023) supports Matter over Thread devices, it cannot directly join an existing Thread network created by another device like an Apple HomePod or Google Nest Hub. Here’s why:

  • Homey Pro’s Thread Network: Homey Pro creates its own Thread network for Matter devices. When you connect a Matter over Thread device to Homey Pro, it joins this network.
  • Potential Conflicts: Allowing Homey Pro to join an existing Thread network could lead to conflicts with its own Zigbee network, as they share the same radio hardware.
  • Matter Multi-Admin: Matter has a feature called “multi-admin” that allows devices to be controlled by multiple platforms. This means you can potentially add a Matter device to both your existing Thread network (e.g., Apple Home) and Homey Pro, allowing both to control it. However, this depends on the specific device and how it implements Matter.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Connecting Matter Devices: You can connect Matter over Thread devices to Homey Pro using the Homey app or web app. During the setup process, you’ll typically choose to connect “via Homey Pro,” which adds the device to Homey’s Thread network.
  • Thread Border Routers: To use Matter over Thread, you’ll need a Thread border router. Homey Pro acts as a Thread border router for its own network. If you have an existing Thread network, you likely already have a border router (e.g., Apple HomePod, Google Nest Hub).
  • Future Possibilities: It’s possible that future updates to Homey Pro or Matter may allow for more seamless integration with existing Thread networks. However, as of now, the focus is on creating a stable and reliable network within the Homey ecosystem.

If you have further questions about Matter, Thread, or connecting specific devices to Homey Pro, feel free to ask!

2 Likes
7

That is unfortunate
Thread routers such a mess for now