This guide answers a smart-lighting or Matter lighting question and translates
it into a practical checklist for Rhythm users. If you are pairing compatible
Matter lights, the Rhythm Lighting LightHub can commission them from the
Rhythm app: choose Add Device, select Matter, then scan the
QR code or paste the MT: payload / 11-digit setup code. The
LightHub performs the commissioning handshake and keeps the device on your
Matter fabric.
Short answer
Firmware can materially change what a Matter device exposes. A Matter 1.3 update may add energy reporting for plugs, better diagnostics, or improved behavior in a controller. But transport changes, such as moving a product from Matter over Wi-Fi to Matter over Thread, are not something you should assume unless the manufacturer explicitly promises it for that exact hardware.
The original question included this context: Ledvance has updated its smart plug to Matter 1.3 so that energy data is now available. [https://matter-smarthome.de/en/practice/which-matter-smart-plugs-report-energy-data/](https://matter-smarthome.de/en/practice/which-matter-smart-plugs-report-energy-data/)
What to do before updating
- Check the release notes for the exact model number, not just the brand.
- Update through the vendor-recommended path if your Matter controller does not expose OTA updates.
- After updating, power-cycle the device and give controllers time to rediscover capabilities.
- If a new feature does not appear, remove and re-add only as a last resort; many controllers refresh slowly.
Wi-Fi versus Thread upgrades
A Wi-Fi Matter device and a Thread Matter device use different radios. If the hardware lacks a Thread radio, no OTA update can make it Matter over Thread. If the hardware includes both radios, the vendor still has to ship firmware, certification, and migration tooling. Buy based on what the product supports today, not a hoped-for upgrade.
Pairing with Rhythm
For lighting, the Rhythm LightHub focuses on reliable Matter commissioning and local control. Firmware updates may improve a bulb or plug, but the pairing flow remains the same: add the device in Rhythm with its Matter code, keep the LightHub on the same network, and verify the device appears before building automations around it.
Pairing with Rhythm
For Matter lights and bulbs, the LightHub is the bridge between the app and the device during pairing. Keep the LightHub, phone, and device on the same local network, keep Bluetooth enabled when the device requires BLE commissioning, and make sure the setup code has not expired or already been used by another fabric. Once paired, the LightHub can control the device locally as part of your Rhythm setup.
For a complete Matter-over-Wi-Fi lighting walkthrough, see Pair Matter-over-Wi-Fi bulbs with the LightHub.