The Connectivity Standards Alliance has introduced Zigbee 4.0, an updated version of its wireless mesh networking standard. This new version includes enhancements such as improved security, longer battery life, and a feature called Batch Commissioning, which allows multiple devices such as smart lights, switches, and plugs to be set up simultaneously.
A notable addition is the Suzi feature, which enables Zigbee devices to operate on the European 800 MHz and North American 900 MHz frequency bands, expanding coverage for outdoor devices and those located farther from a home. Traditionally, Zigbee devices operate on the 2.4 GHz band, which can be adversely affected by physical obstacles like thick walls.
Suzi is comparable to other features previously integrated into the Zigbee protocol, such as those geared toward energy monitoring and low-power devices that do not rely on batteries. As companies like Ikea shift toward the Matter protocol over Thread, which also operates on the 2.4 GHz band, Suzi’s capabilities may help maintain Zigbee’s market relevance, particularly for commercial and industrial applications known for challenging environments.
The enhancements in Zigbee 4.0 include a simplified certification process, improved inter-device communication, and the ability to manage devices on set schedules. Furthermore, the previously optional Zigbee Direct feature is now standard, allowing smartphones to directly control and add Zigbee devices via Bluetooth Low Energy without the requirement of a hub.
Zigbee 4.0 is designed to be fully backward compatible with Zigbee 3.0 and Smart Energy devices, and it may support over-the-air upgrades for devices with adequate operational resources. However, it remains unclear which specific devices will benefit from these upgrades. The Suzi certification program is expected to launch in the first half of 2026.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/822450/zigbee-4-0-suzi-smart-home-wireless-mesh-network-ble