Hello everyone,
I’d like to draw attention to a critical limitation in Homey’s Zigbee SDK, as highlighted in the recently created GitHub Issue #378. This limitation impacts the compatibility of certain Zigbee devices, such as Legrand Netatmo switches, which require specific read attribute responses during the pairing process.
The Problem
Currently, the Homey SDK does not allow developers to handle read attribute requests at the right moment during the pairing process. Devices like the Legrand Netatmo switches send these requests as part of their security or initialization protocols. If no response is received, they either fail to pair or disconnect from the network shortly afterward.
This is not an isolated issue. Similar challenges have been reported by other Homey users in multiple discussions:
• Unable to pair Legrand wireless remote switch 067773 with Homey Pro
These threads emphasize the growing frustration among users and the need for more robust handling of Zigbee device pairing in the SDK.
Why It Matters
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Enhanced Compatibility: Expanding the SDK to support custom responses during pairing would make Homey compatible with a wider range of Zigbee devices, including popular ones like Legrand Netatmo switches.
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User Experience: Many users expect their smart home hub to “just work” with the devices they own. A lack of support for such cases can lead to frustration and disappointment.
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Developer Flexibility: An improved SDK would empower developers to create better integrations and address unique device behaviors without relying on workarounds.
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Competitiveness: Other platforms, like Zigbee2MQTT, have tackled this issue successfully (Zigbee2MQTT Issue #2399). Improving the Homey SDK would help Homey remain competitive in the smart home ecosystem.
Proposed Solution
The solution lies in extending the Zigbee SDK to:
• Provide hooks or methods to handle read attribute commands during pairing.
• Allow developers to access lower-level Zigbee stack events for greater control over the pairing process.
• Optionally, implement common fixes for widely-used devices (e.g., Aqara-specific pairing logic already implemented in Homey).
A Call to Action
I encourage Athom BV to prioritize this enhancement to the Zigbee SDK. Not only would it resolve specific device compatibility issues, but it would also future-proof Homey for the growing diversity of Zigbee devices in the market.
If you’ve experienced similar challenges or agree this is a crucial improvement, please add your support by commenting on GitHub Issue #378 and engaging in discussions like these:
• Unable to pair Legrand wireless remote switch 067773 with Homey Pro
Let’s work together to make Homey even better!
Thank you for your time and consideration.
