AVM releases lab update turning Fritz!Box 5690 Pro into a Matter smart‑home bridge

AVM has issued a new lab‑version firmware for the Fritz!Box 5690 Pro (FritzOS 8.50). The update makes the router a full Matter‑bridge, allowing direct integration of Apple Home, Google Home and Amazon Alexa devices without the previously required Fritz!Smart Gateway. Users can now control compatible smart‑home products, such as the Fritz!Smart Thermo 302, via voice assistants or Fritz!Box routines.

The beta firmware also introduces DNS‑filter lists for network‑wide content blocking, automatic bandwidth prioritisation for high‑usage applications, a simplified telephony mode and an emergency‑call feature. Because it is a laboratory build, installation must be performed manually, and AVM advises users to back up settings as the software may still contain bugs.