Aqara’s M3 Matter Controller and Thread Border Router Gets International Release

Aqara has announced the global availability of its next-generation Matter hub, the Hub M3. Designed with a focus on Edge computing, the M3 prioritises privacy and local automation capabilities that can operate independently of internet connection or even the hub itself. Thanks to versatile connectivity built-in, it integrates Aqara accessories, infrared-compatible gadgets, and a (currently small) number of third-party Matter devices, making it a central point for smart home automation while ensuring privacy and easy setup.

You can watch our video review below;

Debuted at CES in January, the M3 stands out as an Edge Hub by enabling not only data privacy through end-to-end encrypted, local storage, but also advanced, local automation capabilities. For Aqara users who already own an Aqara Zigbee hub, deploying a Hub M3 further strengthens the robustness of their smart home networks. Moreover, it enables more local automations between Aqara devices. Once added to the network, the M3 takes a lead over other Aqara Zigbee hubs and Wi-Fi devices, and allows automation between these devices to execute on the Edge instead of over the cloud, ensures continued functionality during internet or cloud service disruptions. The Hub M3 also allows select Aqara Zigbee devices with Repeater functionality to act as a proxy hub and execute automations in the absence of M3. Upcoming Aqara Thread devices with Mesh Extender functionality are expected to support device binding via the M3.

As the latest evolution in Aqara’s lineup of smart home control centres, the M3 supports multiple protocols including Thread, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and infrared (IR), making it a comprehensive hub for smart home management. It connects and manages the lineup of classic Aqara Zigbee devices, serving as a Matter bridge. Thanks to the 360° IR blaster, the new hub optimises control of IR-enabled devices by syncing their status directly with Aqara Home whenever an IR remote is utilised. Moreover, the M3 integrates the latest Aqara Thread devices as well as select Matter-compatible devices from third-party brands to Aqara Home. This means that users can connect and manage devices from different brands and ecosystems within the Aqara Home app to ensure maximum flexibility and compatibility.

• Matter bridge for infrared AC units: It can integrate an infrared-compatible air conditioning unit or air-to-air heat pump to Matter, allowing for AC control and automation via Matter-enabled platforms.
• Seamless group migration: Users can easily migrate bridged device from older Aqara hubs to the M3, ensuring continuity of Aqara Home settings and automations without the need to reconfigure each device.
• Enhanced internet connectivity: The M3 features dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz) with WPA3 security as well as a PoE-enabled port, offering enhanced stability and flexibility.
• Powerful speaker: The 95dB speaker built-in can be used for home security alerts and custom announcements.

The Hub M3 is now available at Aqara’s Amazon brand stores throughout North America (US, Canada), Europe (France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, UK) and Asia (Japan), as well as through select Aqara retailers worldwide.

• North American stores: USCAHUB3 (applicable to Amazon US & Canada)
• European stores: HUBM3EU5 (applicable to Amazon France, Germany, Italy, Spain & UK)