At the heart of Matter, the new smart home standard co-developed by Apple, lies Thread. Matter utilizes Thread as its foundation, including it in Apple’s HomeKit smart home platform. Designed specifically for internet-connected devices (IoT), Thread boasts advantages over Bluetooth. This low-power, low-bandwidth mesh networking protocol offers faster speeds and extended range, making it perfect for seamlessly connecting smart home devices like lights, locks, thermostats, and sensors. And, nearly all of Apple’s newest Macs and iPads contain an unannounced Thread radio. Jennifer Pattison Tuohy for The Verge: When Apple announced the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max last fall, the company surprised everyone by putting a Thread radio in its top-of-the-line smartphones. Now, it turns out Apple also quietly…