Thread Group Introduces Associate Membership for White Brand or Re-branding Vendors

Thread Group, dedicates to addressing challenges in IoT integration, security, power consumption, and network architecture. Thread is a low-power wireless mesh networking protocol known for its ability to support direct device-to-device communication without the need for additional relays, significantly enhancing system reliability and responsiveness, making it an ideal choice for building IoT systems.

In order to meet market demands, accelerate the adoption of Thread technology, and further drive innovation and interoperability in the IoT field, Thread Group has added this new Associate membership level. This level is specifically designed for small and medium-sized brands, white brand manufacturers, and startups. Products produced by these members will inherit certification from Thread Group’s Sponsor or Contributor members.

Associate Membership Benefits

The Associate membership level provides a streamlined path for adopting Thread technology. Associate members receive a range of benefits tailored to support their unique business models. Full details can be found in Thread Group’s membership benefits table. Here is an overview of some of the benefits for Associate members:

• Access to the member website

• Use of the Thread Group alliance logo

• Recognition as an Associate member on the Thread Group website and in related communications

• Certification inheritance for compliant white brand terminal products

  
  

Eligibility and Application Process

Companies that white brand Thread-certified terminal products developed and manufactured by Thread Group’s Sponsor or Contributor members can apply for Associate membership. Interested companies can visit the Thread Group website and complete the online membership application form.

Certification Process and Fees

Associate members must adhere to the certification process outlined on the Thread Group website. All certified terminal products must meet the strict standards set by Thread Group to ensure seamless interoperability and consumer satisfaction.

Currently, there is no membership fee for the Associate level, although certification fees must still be paid to Thread Group during the certification inheritance process, just like other members. Detailed information about certification fees and processes can be found on the Thread Group certification page.

Thread Group Membership Levels

In addition to the new Associate level, Thread Group continues to support the following membership levels:

• Sponsor: For companies looking to influence Thread Group’s organizational and technical strategy.

• Contributor: For companies aiming to develop and contribute to Thread technology.

• Implementer: For companies producing products based on Thread technology.

• Affiliate: For startups interested in tracking and following Thread.

• Academic: For academic research institutions.

  
  

The introduction of the Associate membership level is particularly attractive to small and medium-sized brands, white brand manufacturers, and startups, as it eliminates the high upfront membership fees typically associated with market entry. Instead, companies only need to pay certification fees once their products have been certified, significantly reducing the initial financial barrier and enabling more small businesses to enter the smart product market.

Additionally, in designing the new membership level, Thread Group has referenced the membership system of the CSA Connectivity Standards Alliance, particularly in the upcoming Product Family Certification (PFC). This certification will align more closely with CSA Connectivity Standards Alliance’s standards, aiming to reduce compliance certification costs. This collaboration not only strengthens the partnership with CSA Connectivity Standards Alliance but also helps create a broader technical consensus, further accelerating the global adoption and application of IoT technology.

By establishing the new membership level, Thread Group demonstrates its commitment to promoting IoT technology and innovation. This move reflects strong confidence in the development of Thread technology and an insightful understanding of future market trends. By lowering the entry threshold, Thread Group aims to attract more companies to join and contribute to the growth and refinement of the IoT ecosystem.

Currently, HooRii Technology leads Thread Group’s promotional efforts in China. HooRii Technology is actively promoting Thread technology and its application in the Chinese market. In 2023, the Chinese working group proposed membership system optimizations to the board, which successfully facilitated adjustments to Thread Group’s membership policies, making the membership and certification system more accessible to various types of Chinese enterprises. The Thread Group China Working Group welcomes companies interested in Thread technology to join Thread Group and participate in important discussions about the future of Thread.

To further enhance industry communication and collaboration, the Thread Group China Working Group will host online meetings to provide detailed answers about the new membership level and related benefits. We invite interested organizations and businesses to join us and help shape the future of Thread. If you are interested in becoming a Thread Group member or participating in future working groups, please contact us at help@threadgroup.org.

We look forward to working with you to drive the flourishing development of the smart connectivity ecosystem.