How to Manage Matter Guest Access in iOS 16 Home

With the introduction of iOS 16 and the Matter smart home standard, managing guest access in the Apple Home app combines Apple's native Home sharing with Matter's universal Multi-Admin framework. This article explains how guest permissions function in iOS 16, detailing how users are invited, how Matter's Multi-Admin capability enables cross-platform guest sharing, the role of Apple Home Hubs in granting access, and how to revoke permissions securely.

Apple Home Guest Invitations

Guest access within iOS 16 functions primarily through Apple ID invitations sent via the Home app.

To grant a guest access:

  1. Open the Home app.
  2. Tap the More (...) button in the upper-right corner and select Home Settings.
  3. Tap Invite People and enter the guest’s Apple ID email address.

Once the invitation is accepted, the guest can control all connected devices in that specific home, including Matter-certified accessories such as smart plugs, lights, and thermostats.

Permission Levels for Invited Guests

In iOS 16, Apple distinguishes between standard members and administrators. By default, guests receive standard access:

  • Control Privileges: Guests can turn accessories on or off, adjust settings, and activate existing scenes.
  • Administrative Restrictions: Guests cannot add new accessories, delete existing devices, modify automations, or invite other users.
  • Remote Access: For guests to control Matter devices while away from the local Wi-Fi network, the home must have an active Apple Home Hub (such as an Apple TV 4K or HomePod) connected. If no hub is present, guest control is strictly limited to local network proximity.

Matter’s Multi-Admin Functionality for Non-Apple Guests

One of the defining features of Matter in iOS 16 is "Multi-Admin" support. Unlike proprietary HomeKit accessories, Matter devices can be paired simultaneously to multiple smart home ecosystems. This provides an alternative way to grant guest access to users who do not use Apple devices or who only need access to a specific appliance.

Instead of inviting a guest to the entire Apple Home:

  1. Select the specific Matter accessory in the iOS 16 Home app.
  2. Tap the Settings (gear) icon.
  3. Tap Turn On Pairing Mode.
  4. The Home app generates a temporary setup code.

A guest using an Android phone, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Samsung SmartThings can scan this code to add that specific Matter device directly to their preferred app. This method isolates the guest's control to that single accessory without granting them visibility or control over the rest of the Apple Home setup.

Revoking Guest Access

Access controls can be terminated at any time by the primary Home owner:

  • Revoking Apple Home Access: In Home Settings, select the guest's name and choose Remove Person. This immediately strips their ability to view or control all devices, including Matter accessories, within the home.
  • Revoking Multi-Admin Connections: In the specific Matter accessory's settings menu, the owner can view all "Connected Ecosystems." Selecting a platform or connection and removing it will sever the guest's cross-platform access without resetting the device.