Quectel Wireless has launched a standalone wifi module that supports the Alexa Connect Kit (ACK) SDK for Matter.

This means the FLM263D can let IoT devices connect seamlessly with Matter compliant controllers including Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings and Apple HomeKit.

Matter is a standard for smart home communications, tackling the persistent problems of compatibility and fragmentation within the sector by enabling direct communication between smart devices. Governed by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), Matter devices undergo a certification process to ensure secure, reliable and universally interoperable connections. Adherence to this is paramount for all Matter-compliant products, fostering a unified communication framework and enhancing user experiences.

“We created ACK to make it simpler for device makers to build smart home devices with a fully-managed service without having deep expertise in multiple wireless protocols, complex cloud connectivity and the necessary maintenance of cloud infrastructure,” said Ben McInnis, director for smart homes at Amazon. “We are excited about this launch because Quectel’s FLM263D adds to ACK’s portfolio and offers more choices for device makers.”

The 2.4GHz single band Wifi 6 module features a high-performance processor with a frequency of up to 320MHz. This module boasts support for IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ax protocol and BLE 5.2, paired with built-in 512kbyte SRAM and 4Mbyte flash. Furthermore, it meets security standards, including secure boot and MBed TLS encryption, ensuring protection for connected devices.

“Revolutionising connectivity in the smart home landscape, our latest FLM263D module sets a new standard for seamless integration,” said Norbert Muhrer, president of Quectel Wireless. “It also empowers developers with robust support for the ACK SDK for Matter, ensuring unparalleled interoperability and innovation in the IoT ecosystem.”

The FLM263D offers support for device certifications such as Works with Alexa (WWA) and features such as Matter Simple Setup (MSS). MSS allows end-users to connect Matter-compliant smart home devices seamlessly to Alexa with zero-touch setup, while WWA instils consumer confidence when buying on Amazon.

The module (www.quectel.com/product/wi-fi-bluetooth-flm263d) has five GPIO interfaces that can alternatively function as PWM or I²C communication channels. Designed with an LCC form factor and built-in PCB antenna, it measures 17.3 by 15.0 by 2.8mm and has an operating temperature of -40 to +105˚C and 3.0 to 3.6V power supply. Iit is suitable for smart lighting applications, especially smart bulbs.

Additional modules will be rolled out soon to expand the scope of Quectel (www.quectel.com) offerings to include smart switches, smart plugs and other smart household applications.

More information about the ACK SDK can be found at developer.amazon.com/en-US/alexa/devices/connected-devices/development-resources/alexa-connect-kit.