The Z-Wave Alliance, the standards development organization dedicated to advancing the smart home and Z-Wave technology, announced the launch of the 2024B Z-Wave Specification package as well as the introduction of a new Accelerator membership level aimed at empowering startups and young companies in the IoT ecosystem.

The 2024B Z-Wave Specification Package includes documents that have undergone an Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) review and includes updates that significantly enhance the Z-Wave Certification program, introduces new and updated Z-Wave Command Classes, and unlocks exciting new tools for developers. These updates to the overall Z-Wave Specification have been implemented to ensure improved functionality, regulatory compliance, and provide a seamless path forward for developers and manufacturers.

Key highlights of Z-Wave 2024B include:

• Command Class Updates: the updated Z-Wave specification introduces several advancements to Command Classes, further enhancing device interoperability, customization, and security. Notable 2024B updates include the User Credential Command class which is used to manage various user credentials for gaining access to properties, typically through unlocking or opening doors.
• Updated Certification Requirements: The Z-Wave certification process has been further elevated through the adoption of the latest Compliance Test Tool (CTT) version 3.9.1. The latest version further ensures rigorous validation of device performance and includes SmartStart, S2, and Z-Wave Long Range (ZWLR) support.
• New Certification Tool Features: The 2024B-2 Certification Program and Tools update was released on January 15, 2025. Key additions include enhanced range testing benchmarks, streamlined cross-portal cloning for seamless recertifications, updated emulator support for ZWLR, SmartStart, and User Credential Command Classes (UCCC), along with IP-based devices.

The upcoming Z-Wave 2024B-3 update addresses a frequency change proposal for ZWLR in the EU. Due to ETSI regulatory requirements, the frequencies for ZWLR-EU will transition from 864.4 MHz and 866.4 MHz to 864 MHz and 866 MHz. This change ensures compliance with regulatory standards and includes updated PHY specifications, and updated product and protocol certification for vendor software. Members can expect to see the final update made to 2024B and the opening of ZWLR EU certification by April of 2025.

 “The Z-Wave 2024B update represents our continued efforts to enhance the Z-Wave ecosystem,” said Avi Rosenthal, chair of the board for the Z-Wave Alliance. “By addressing critical regulatory challenges and introducing new tools for developers, we’re enabling the IoT industry to create innovative, future-ready solutions while simultaneously maintaining the high standards of interoperability and security that Z-Wave is known for.”

In addition to the updates found within the 2024B Specification package, the Alliance is announced the launch of its Accelerator membership level. This new membership tier is specifically designed to empower startups and emerging IoT companies, providing them with affordable access to the resources, support, and collaborative environment of the Z-Wave Alliance, the announcement states.

The Accelerator membership level offers a tiered fee structure and access to all Z-Wave Alliance materials and working groups, ensuring new members have the tools and knowledge to succeed. Companies can join in Year 1 for a discounted fee of $2,500, with gradual increases in subsequent years as they progress through product development, certification, and market launch. By Year 5, Accelerator Members transition to the standard manufacturer membership level, fully integrated into the Z-Wave ecosystem. The Accelerator Membership program has been structured to encourage engagement and participation. As part of their commitment, members under this program are asked to participate in the working groups of the Alliance to qualify for discounted membership.

“The Accelerator membership level is a testament to the Z-Wave Alliance’s dedication to fostering advancements and inclusivity,” said Rosenthal. “Startups and young companies are key innovators in the IoT industry, and the Alliance is proud to have witnessed many of our member companies grow or be acquired into much larger brands over the years. This program provides a viable foundation for young companies to ensure they have the resources and support required to bring their ideas to life while contributing to the growth of the Z-Wave community.”