The Connectivity Standards Alliance recently published the Matter 1.5.1 specification update. This minor revision refines the camera and video doorbell features originally introduced in the previous version. Testing new smart home cameras often reveals frustrating bandwidth limits when multiple apps try to view the same feed simultaneously. This update finally addresses that exact bottleneck for local networks while improving overall media handling.
Upgraded Video Streaming Efficiency
The most notable change involves new multi stream video and audio capabilities. A single smart camera can now deliver several optimized feeds at the same time during one session. This allows a device to send a high resolution stream to a local storage drive while simultaneously pushing a lower resolution feed to a smartphone app. The update greatly reduces bandwidth strain and improves network reliability when multiple systems access the same camera.
Better Media Formats and Navigation
The new specification expands support for modern media formats across the smart home ecosystem. Cameras can now capture and send snapshot images using the HEIC format instead of standard JPEG files.
This change provides better image quality while taking up significantly less storage space. Recorded video also gains full support for modern streaming upload profiles. Developers also received updated guidelines for pan tilt zoom controls to allow better movement tracking when a camera sits at the physical edge of its rotation range.
Advanced Chime and Intercom Features
Smart doorbells and connected chimes received important stability and customization upgrades. Smart home controllers can now request specific audio tracks from a chime device rather than relying solely on a single default sound.
This enables users to set different audio alerts for different doors or trigger seasonal sounds through their automation routines. Intercom systems also benefit from clearer signaling rules to ensure they behave consistently across different platforms.
