TL;DR / At a Glance: Can I use IKEA smart lights with Samsung SmartThings without a hub? Yes. As of April 2026, IKEA’s new Matter-over-Thread devices (like the KAJPLATS range) can connect directly to Samsung Smart TVs (2022+), SmartThings Stations, and Soundbars without an IKEA Dirigera hub.
The “Hub Tax” is finally dead. As of April 21, 2026, Samsung and IKEA have officially flipped the switch on a direct Matter-over-Thread integration. This means millions of Malaysians who already own a Samsung TV or Soundbar can now buy IKEA smart gadgets and have them work instantly—no RM300 Dirigera hub required.
The Game Changer: Your TV is the Hub
Most people don’t realise they already own a smart home controller. Since 2022, Samsung has been quietly embedding Thread Border Routers into their hardware. If you own any of the following, you are ready to go:
- Samsung TVs (2022–2026): Including QLED, Neo QLED, OLED, and Lifestyle models (The Frame).
- Samsung Soundbars: High-end Q-series models from 2024 onwards.
- SmartThings Station: The 15W wireless charger that doubles as a powerhouse hub.
- Samsung Appliances: Family Hub refrigerators and new Bespoke washing machines.
The “Buy Smart” Edge: The $6 (RM29) Entry Point
The star of this launch is the KAJPLATS series. These are IKEA’s first native Matter-over-Thread bulbs, and they are priced aggressively to undercut competitors like Philips Hue by half.
- KAJPLATS Smart Bulbs: Starting at just $5.99 (~RM29) for the basic warm white.
- Sensors & Buttons: The MYGGBETT door/window sensors (~RM38) and MYGGSPRAY motion sensors (~RM45) now connect directly to your Samsung ecosystem.
- Why Thread Matters: Unlike old Zigbee or Wi-Fi bulbs, Thread is a self-healing mesh. Every bulb you add makes your network stronger and faster, with almost zero latency.
How to Setup IKEA Matter Devices with SmartThings (Malaysia)
- Check Your Hardware: Ensure your Samsung TV or Hub is updated to Matter 1.5 (released Jan 2026).
- Power On: Plug in your new IKEA KAJPLATS bulb or pull the battery tab on a sensor. It will stay in “Pairing Mode” for 15 minutes.
- Scan & Go: Open the SmartThings App on your phone. It should automatically detect the device. If not, scan the Matter QR code on the device or packaging.
- No More Bridges: The device will join your Samsung Thread network directly. You can now use your TV remote or Bixby to dim the lights.
The “Buy Smart” Verdict
This is the moment smart homes become mass market in Malaysia. You no longer need to be a tech geek to set this up. If you have a Samsung TV and an IKEA nearby, you have everything you need for a professional-grade smart home. Skip the expensive dedicated hubs; the infrastructure is already in your living room.
IKEA Smart Home: The Hub vs. Hubless Debate
| Feature | Old Way (Zigbee + Dirigera) | New Way (Matter-over-Thread) |
| Additional Cost | RM299 (For Dirigera Hub) | RM0 (Uses your Samsung TV) |
| Setup Time | 15–20 Mins (Bridging hubs) | <2 Mins (Direct pairing) |
| Reliability | Good (Zigbee Mesh) | Superior (Thread Self-healing) |
| Compatibility | Locked to IKEA / Bridged | Works with Apple, Google, Alexa |
Pricing & Availability
As of today, April 27, 2026, the KAJPLATS range is officially available in the European and Australian markets, and it has not yet physically landed on IKEA Malaysia shelves.
However, local IKEA sources and recent certifications suggest the Malaysian launch is imminent. Here is the local status:
- The Current Gap: If you check the IKEA Malaysia website today, you will primarily see the older TRÅDFRI (Zigbee-based) range. The TRÅDFRI E27 bulbs are currently being discounted (some down to RM25), which may be the signal that IKEA Malaysia is clearing stock to make way for the new Matter-over-Thread arrivals.
- Expected Pricing: Based on the European price of €4.99, we expect the KAJPLATS E27 bulbs to launch in Malaysia at approximately RM29–RM35, making them the most affordable Matter-certified bulbs in the country.
- The “Wait” Factor: If you are planning to build your smart home via the Samsung SmartThings integration we discussed, do not buy the TRÅDFRI bulbs right now. They will still require a hub. Wait 2–4 weeks for the KAJPLATS stock to arrive so you can go hubless.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I still need the IKEA Dirigera hub to connect IKEA lights to SmartThings?
No. With the new Matter-over-Thread update, you can connect the latest IKEA devices (like the KAJPLATS series) directly to a compatible Samsung SmartThings hub without needing any IKEA-branded hub or bridge.
Which Samsung devices can act as a hub for IKEA Matter products?
Most Samsung Smart TVs (2022 models and newer), the SmartThings Station, Family Hub refrigerators, and newer Q-series Soundbars (2024+) have built-in Thread Border Routers that can control IKEA Matter devices directly.
Will my older IKEA TRÅDFRI bulbs work with this new setup?
Not directly. Older TRÅDFRI products use Zigbee, not Thread. To bring those into SmartThings, you would still need an IKEA Dirigera hub to act as a “Matter Bridge,” or a dedicated SmartThings/Aeotec Zigbee hub.
How many IKEA devices are supported in this new integration?
As of April 21, 2026, 25 IKEA devices are officially supported, including smart bulbs, plugs, motion sensors, door/window sensors, and the new scroll wheel remote.
What is “Thread,” and why is it better than Wi-Fi?
Thread is a low-power mesh networking protocol designed specifically for smart homes. Unlike Wi-Fi, it doesn’t slow down your internet and actually gets stronger and more reliable as you add more devices to your home.
Does the IKEA scroll wheel remote work for everything now?
Currently, the scroll wheel remote is optimised for fine-tuned lighting control (brightness and color temperature). Support for controlling smart blinds via the wheel is expected to roll out later in 2026.
What happens if my internet goes down?
Because Matter and Thread work locally, your IKEA lights and sensors will continue to function and trigger routines even if your internet connection is interrupted, provided your local network is still powered on.
