Frequently asked questions

• How does the ZBBridge-U differ from the ZBBridge-P?

  By platform: the ZBBridge-U pairs RV1109 + EFR32MG21 with a dual-core 1.5 GHz CPU, a 1.2 TOPS NPU, 1 GB DDR4, 8 GB eMMC, Ethernet and a Matter bridge; the ZBBridge-P runs ESP32 + CC2652P, Wi-Fi only, no Matter, and 128 sub-devices versus 256.
• Do I need a Matter hub for Apple Home?

  Yes. The Matter bridge needs a controller on the same LAN: for Apple Home that is a HomePod mini or an Apple TV 4K. The pairing code is generated in the eWeLink app and entered in the Home app.
• Which devices reach Matter through the bridge?

  SONOFF/eWeLink Zigbee sub-devices, and per the manufacturer also SONOFF Wi-Fi devices, eWeLink-Remote controls and Home Assistant devices. The supported-model list is published on sonoff.tech — check it before buying.
• Does it work with Home Assistant?

  Yes, via two official paths: syncing Zigbee sub-devices into Home Assistant through an MQTT broker, or the reverse — exposing HA devices into Matter through the bridge. It cannot, however, be a ZHA/Zigbee2MQTT coordinator.
• Can I reflash it into a Zigbee2MQTT or ZHA coordinator?

  No. The ZBBridge-U is an eWeLink-platform gateway, not a reflashable USB stick; the Zigbee network lives in its firmware. For ZHA or Zigbee2MQTT pick a dongle such as the ZBDongle-E.
• Does it work without the internet?

  Local Zigbee automations and device control run without internet, and devices exposed via Matter stay controllable on the LAN. Internet is only needed for remote access, firmware updates and cloud scenes.
• How does the security mode work?

  You arm and disarm via an NFC tag, a wireless button or the app. When sensors trip, the gateway plays a ringtone (custom uploads supported) and sends a push notification.
• How many sub-devices does it support?

  Up to 256 Zigbee 3.0 sub-devices per SONOFF lab testing; the real-world number depends on the environment and network layout. Mains-powered 220 V relays also act as Zigbee routers, extending the mesh.