Makers of Matter controllers can move to Matter.js’s completed new controller interface without pairing every device again. Version 0.18 keeps the same stored pairing format for both interfaces, with a migration guide for developers; the old interface and its package are planned for removal in version 0.19.
The release also adds the device types and protocol features from Matter 1.6.1 for people building devices, bridges and controllers. It checks each endpoint against its device definition, warning about missing requirements by default and offering stricter checks during development.
Upgrading device and bridge implementations may require explicitly selecting features that were previously chosen automatically. The announcement asks developers to review the new validation warnings. This release supplies tools for software built with Matter.js; connected smart-home platforms still need their own implementation of its capabilities.