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Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Yes. SmartThings does not need a Samsung phone. Samsung offers the app for both Android and iOS, so an iPhone or a Pixel works. Two things are still required: a Samsung account and a Matter-compatible SmartThings hub. The phone brand doesn’t change the hub requirement.
What you need instead of a Samsung phone
- The SmartThings app on any supported phone. Samsung’s US product page says the app is available for Android and iOS. Samsung UK’s “How to use SmartThings” page describes installing it from Google Play, the Apple App Store or the Galaxy Store.
- A Samsung account. Samsung support says one is needed to use SmartThings, whatever phone you use.
- A Matter-compatible hub. Samsung’s “Smart home with Samsung SmartThings” page states that Matter devices need a Matter-compatible hub to connect to SmartThings.
- A Thread Border Router, but only for Thread devices. This is covered below.
Samsung’s instructions for setting up a SmartThings Hub, SmartThings Wifi or Connect Home also tell iOS users to get the app from the App Store and finish setup in the phone app. Even the hub itself can be set up from an iPhone.
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Why the phone isn’t the Matter hub
SmartThings’ support article “SmartThings x Matter Integration” (January 19, 2023) splits Matter setup into two roles:
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems- Commissioner: the phone running the SmartThings app. In Samsung’s words, “Your mobile device with the SmartThings app will be the commissioner that facilitates this connection.”
- Controller: the hub that controls the device after onboarding.
The phone only takes part in onboarding. It doesn’t act as the controller, and a Samsung phone doesn’t replace the hub either. If you already have a compatible hub, any supported phone can add Matter devices. If you don’t, a Samsung phone won’t help.
#1 Best Overall
- [Multi-Protocol Hub with Matter Bridge] The M3 is a versatile hub supporting Aqara Zigbee and Thread devices. It integrates third-party devices into the Aqara Home app. Supports advanced Matter bridge functionality, enabling Aqara-exclusive scenes and signals to sync with Matter ecosystems such as Home Assistant for seamless integration. Supports up to 127 Aqara Zigbee devices （** Not third-party Zigbee devices) and 127 Thread devices (Repeaters are needed).
- [Edge Compatibilities and Local Automations] The M3 serves as an Edge Hub, prioritizing local control and automation. Upon integration, it supersedes existing Aqara hubs, shifting the automations among them to local operation (Some cloud-based notifications still require internet). Upgrade-friendly, it supports migrating Zigbee devices from older Aqara hubs.
- [Smart IR Blaster with Feedback and Learning] The 360°IR blaster not only sends commands but also provides accurate status updates by detecting traditional remote use. It connects IR air conditioning units to Matter, functioning as an AC thermostat when paired with an Aqara Temperature and Humidity Sensor. (Note: Only one AC device can be exposed to Matter. Functionality may vary based on the Matter integration app. For Apple Home exposure, use Matter integration instead of HomeKit.)
- [Optimal Wired and Wireless Connectivity] Offering both wired and wireless solutions, the smart home hub M3 provides dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz) with advanced WPA3 security, and a Power over Ethernet (PoE) port. The addition of a USB-C port allows for mini-UPS and power bank connections, delivering unparalleled stability. (2A USB power adapter is not included. ) . Note: To ensure a stable connection, place the Hub M3 between 6 to 19 feet from the router.
- [Privacy-Focused with Encrypted Storage, Easy Setup and Versatile Placement] The M3 prioritizes privacy by excluding microphone or camera components. It boasts 8GB end-to-end encrypted local storage, for device lists, configuration parameters, and automation configuration data. Additionally, it includes a mount and screws for flexible placement on flat surfaces, walls, or ceilings. Magic Pair technology ensures effortless detection by the Aqara Home app upon power-up.
Wi-Fi Matter devices versus Thread devices
| Matter device type | What the controller needs |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi / LAN | A Matter-compatible SmartThings hub. No Thread router is required. |
| Thread | A controller with a built-in Thread Border Router, or a separate third-party Thread Border Router alongside the hub. |
Check the box or spec sheet of each device to see whether it uses Wi-Fi or Thread. Many people buy a hub that supports Matter but has no Thread capability, then find their Thread sensors won’t join.
Which hubs the support article names
The January 2023 article said Samsung Matter controllers included the SmartThings 2018 Hub (IM6001-V3P01) and the Aeotec Smart Home Hub. It said the SmartThings 2015 Hub (STH-ETH and others) handles Wi-Fi/LAN Matter devices but has no Thread router, so Thread devices need a third-party Thread Border Router with that hub.
Rank #2
- Multi-Protocol Smart Hub with Matter Bridge – The M100 is a versatile smart hub compatible with Thread devices and Aqara Zigbee (** Not third-party Zigbee devices), supporting up to 20 Aqara Zigbee devices and 20 Thread devices. As a Matter Bridge, it connects Aqara Zigbee products to other smart home ecosystems, compatible with Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Home Assistant, etc. Note: Use a 5V⎓0.5A power adapter (not included) and keep the product continuously powered during use.
- Advanced Matter Bridging for Seamless Smart Home Integration – The M100 enables Aqara’s unique features, such as facial recognition and complex automation, to work across Home Assistant and other Matter ecosystems. Expand your smart home with Aqara or third-party Matter devices (requires a Matter-enabled hub). Currently supports lights, thermostats, plugs, switches, buttons, and various sensors (motion, light, door/window, temperature/humidity), with more devices to be added in the future.
- Local Automation for Reliable Performance – Supports local execution of automations for Zigbee and Matter devices, ensuring smooth operation even without Wi-Fi or cloud access. Enjoy millisecond-level response times for a more stable and reliable smart home experience. (Some automation, such as cloud push notification, will still require the cloud connection to be executed.)
- Flexible Power & Small Size – Features a universal USB-A port for power and data, allowing connection to power banks, wall outlets, PCs, or routers for a simple and quick setup. The Hub M100's shaft can be adjusted within a 210-degree range, making its placement extremely flexible.
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 6 for Faster & Security—This product supports a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 6 wireless network connection, which enables more efficient connections with advanced WPA3 security. Wi-Fi 6 ensures smoother performance even in high-traffic environments, allowing multiple devices to connect without compromising speed or reliability. Note: To ensure a stable connection, place the Hub M100 between 6 to 19 feet from the router.
This list is a snapshot from the article’s posting date, not a current compatibility chart. Before buying, check these on current Samsung documentation:
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- That the hub model still supports Matter in SmartThings.
- Whether it includes a Thread Border Router.
- That it is sold and supported in your country.
- How it fits with any hub you already own.
Phone and app versions
The Matter article listed these minimums for using SmartThings as commissioner: Android with SmartThings app 1.7.91 or higher, or iOS 16.2 or higher with SmartThings app 1.6.94 or higher. Those figures are from January 2023 and probably no longer reflect current requirements. Samsung UK’s installation page, updated September 23, 2026, gives Android 7.0 or later and iOS 12.0 or later for installing the app, and Samsung’s regional pages note that supported OS versions can change. Treat those as installation guidance, not Matter guarantees. Use the app-store listing for your phone, and the SmartThings documentation for your device, to confirm what works today.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Powered by SmartThings: Connect, monitor, and automate your home through the SmartThings app. Build a reliable, unified smart home using Samsung's proven ecosystem
- Matter + Zigbee Smart Home Hub: Supports the newest Matter standard plus Zigbee for lighting, sensors, plugs, switches, thermostats, and more - thousands of compatible devices. PLEASE NOTE: Z-Wave not supported
- Easy Setup with Wi-Fi or Ethernet: Get started in minutes using Wi-Fi or a wired Ethernet connection for apartments, houses, and expanding smart home systems - Z-Wave not supported
- Automations That Work for You: Create custom routines for security, lighting, comfort, and energy savings. Many local automations continue working even if your internet goes offline
- Wide Device Compatibility: Connect compatible smart devices from Aeotec and many other brands to build a unified system for lighting, voice control, energy management, and climate settings
Rank #3
- [Multi-Protocol Hub with Matter Bridge] The Aqara Hub M200 is a versatile smart hub that supports multiple advanced features, acting as a Matter Controller, Thread Border Router, and Matter Bridge. It integrates third-party devices into the Aqara Home app. With advanced Matter bridging functionality, it syncs Aqara-exclusive features with ecosystems like Home Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home for seamless integration. Supports up to 40 Aqara Zigbee devices and 40 Thread devices.
- [Smart IR Blaster with Feedback and Learning] The 360°IR blaster not only sends commands but also provides accurate status updates by detecting traditional remote use. It connects IR air conditioning units to Matter, functioning as an AC thermostat when paired with an Aqara Temperature and Humidity Sensor. (Note: Only one AC device can be exposed to Matter. Functionality may vary based on the Matter integration app. For Apple Home exposure, use Matter integration instead of HomeKit.)
- [Wired & Wireless Connectivity with PoE Support] Enjoy flexible setup with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz) using advanced WPA3 security, and Power over Ethernet (PoE), making the M200 a versatile PoE Ethernet Smart Home Hub. The USB-C port supports mini-UPS or power bank connections for uninterrupted operation, ensuring your energy-saving and security automations stay online. (*2A USB power adapter is not included. )
- [Home Automation and Alarm System] Works with all Aqara devices to create a comprehensive, smart home automation system. The Aqara Hub M200 is equipped with a built-in speaker that can be used in a variety of ways: security alerts, doorbell, alarm clock, and custom audio messages. (** 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐝-𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲 𝐙𝐢𝐠𝐛𝐞𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬)
- [Local Automation for Reliable Performance] Supports local execution of automations for Zigbee and Matter devices, ensuring smooth operation even without Wi-Fi or cloud access. Enjoy millisecond response times for a more stable and reliable smart home experience. (Some automation, such as cloud push notifications, will still require the cloud connection to be executed.)
Quick checklist for a non-Samsung phone
- Install SmartThings from Google Play or the App Store.
- Sign in with, or create, a Samsung account.
- Confirm you have a current Matter-compatible SmartThings hub, with Thread support if your devices use Thread.
- Add the hub in the app if it isn’t already there.
- Add the Matter device from the app. The phone acts as commissioner, and the hub takes over control.
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