Thread simplifies our smart homes with reliable mesh networking technology without a vendor-specific hub.

However, Thread works its magic in the background, so in order to see what is going on when trouble arises, you'll need to know how to view your Thread network—we'll show you how with three popular iOS apps.

What You'll Need to View Your Thread Network

Blue HomePod mini on a white table

Before viewing your Thread network, you'll need a few things in addition to a compatible accessory. To start, you'll need a Thread Border Router—like an Apple TV or HomePod— set up in your home.

You'll also need to download a third-party app on your iPhone, as Apple's Home app does not provide any Thread details. The Eve for Matter & HomeKit app offers the most insight into your Thread network for free without additional in-app purchases.

eve energy smart plug
Image Credit: Eve

Other options include Controller for HomeKit and the Home+ 6 app. However, the amount of data and terminology varies between apps, and some require payment to download, so the Eve for Matter & HomeKit app is a great place to start.

One final thing to note is that some details may only be available if you add a smart home product to Apple HomeKit from a specific vendor. In the case of Eve, you'll need an Eve Energy Smart Plug to view Routes and other additional information.

Thread Network Management and Limitations

Eve Systems Thread Network Overview
Image Credit: Eve

While you can view your Thread network through an app, you cannot make any changes or adjustments at this time. However, knowing some of the basics of Thread, as well as device details, such as Transport Status, Roles, and Routes, can go a long way when troubleshooting connectivity issues.

For example, viewing your device's Transport status indicates whether it is currently using Thread or Bluetooth. If you experience slow response times or reliability issues with your device, it may signal that it is connecting via Bluetooth.

If Thread performance is inconsistent when a specific device is assigned the Leader or Router Role, you could remove it temporarily to allow for a reassignment. The same goes for Routes, as a single device may interrupt traffic in your mesh network.

Use the Eve App to View Your Thread Network

Launch the Eve for Matter & HomeKit app and tap OK when it asks permission to access your HomeKit data. Next, tap Settings at the bottom of your screen.

Now, tap Thread Network followed by Allow when it asks permission to connect to your local network. You should now see a list of all of your compatible Thread devices.

Tap on a device to see Thread details. Details include Role, Transport, Thread Status, Capabilities, Sleep Interval, and Routes, but some require an Eve Energy Smart Plug to view.

View Thread Details via Controller for HomeKit

Launch the Controller for HomeKit app, tap Grant HomeKit Access when it requests permission to see your HomeKit accessories, then OK to confirm. Next, tap Accessories. Scroll to a room with a Thread device, then tap the device name to access settings.

Now, scroll down to view Thread details. Details include Sleep Interval, Heart Beat, Current Transport, Thread Node Capabilities, Thread OpenThread Version, and Thread Status.

View Your Thread Network Using Home+ 6

Launch the $14.99 Home+6 app, then tap OK when it asks to view your HomeKit home. Next, tap the name of a room that includes a Thread device.

Now, tap the More... button near the top right-hand side of your screen, then scroll down to access device settings. Tap Advanced Features, then scroll down to view Thread details. These include Sleep Interval, Ping, Heartbeat, Current Transport, Thread Node Capabilities, Thread OpenThread Version, and Thread Status.

A Peek Into Thread

With the right gear and apps, you can finally peek into your Thread network. While management is limited to view-only, just knowing the status of your Thread accessories can give you a place to start when it comes to troubleshooting your devices.