Hey  @FrustratedDude,

Thanks for the feedback. This behavior is , unfortunately, the case for most all IoT and Smart Devices, not just ours - It often happens as a result of the newer technologies being added to routers, or how your network manages your connections. IoT devices also do not contain the wireless radios necessary for a 5GHz connection, as the connection provides more than is needed and would most likely cause issues due to the far shorter range that comes with the 5Ghz Range. You will only see a 5Ghz connection on specific cameras, and still is not widely seen.

While most networks do broadcast both SSIDs and your client device chooses which to use, Mesh networks operate a bit differently, with the network (Rather than the device) working to move your devices to the best band and node.

What type of network/router were you connecting to?

This is also one of the main reasons we are seeing more IoT networks only use the 2.4Ghz band and is also the reason that you will come across a lot of users with their ioT devices on their Guest Network. (Previously, Guest NEtworks were largely limited to the 2.4Ghz band and had no opportunity to hand the device off)

I will say that the newest setup methods that are being released are far more stable and reliable than previously. All the matter and home kit devices I have recently configured have been surprisingly simple and straightforward.