Robot vacuums now work with HomeKit – thanks to iOS 18.4

With the release of iOS 18.4, iPhone users got an unexpectedly useful new feature: robotic vacuum cleaners can now be connected to the Home app. That’s thanks to support for the Matter standard, which extends the compatibility of smart devices in Apple’s ecosystem.

What robot vacuum cleaners can do in HomeKit

After you connect a compatible device to the Home app, the vacuum cleaner appears in HomeKit’s shared list of accessories – next to smart lamps, outlets, and other gadgets. From then on, you can:

• Build it into automations and scripts;
• Customize cleaning schedules for specific times;
• Start cleaning by zone, if the vacuum cleaner supports it;
• Select the mode – vacuuming or wet mopping (if the device is equipped with a floor cleaning function);
• Get information about the current status – whether the device is cleaning or charging;

In addition, the robot vacuum cleaner can be controlled by voice via Siri. For example, commands like “Siri, clean the living room” or “Siri, mop the kitchen floor” let you start cleaning without touching the screen.

For more advanced settings – such as mapping, setting custom routes, or enabling object avoidance – you’ll still need the manufacturer’s app. But for everyday tasks, HomeKit’s functionality is already sufficient.

Which robot vacuum cleaner models support HomeKit

The introduction of the Matter standard has made it easier for manufacturers to add HomeKit support. Here’s a list of the models that have already started receiving the update.

Roborock

Roborock has announced that it has begun rolling out HomeKit-enabled firmware in phases starting today. The full update will be completed by April 10. The following models will receive support:

• Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra
• Roborock Saros Z70
• Roborock Saros 10
• Roborock Saros 10R
• Roborock Qrevo Curv
• Roborock Qrevo Edge
• Roborock Qrevo Master

The manufacturer has also promised to add HomeKit support to other models – including the S8 Max Ultra and Qrevo Slim – over the coming weeks and months. More of the brand’s devices will be affected by the update in the future.

Ecovacs

Ecovacs has confirmed that its models are also getting HomeKit support. The update will be rolled out in phases starting this week. The first devices:

• Deebot X2
• Deebot X2 Combo
• Deebot T50
• Deebot T50 Max
• Deebot X8

SwitchBot

SwitchBot has already integrated HomeKit into its new robot vacuum cleaner SwitchBot S10, which also supports wet cleaning.

iRobot

iRobot has announced that the Roomba Combo 10 Max with Auto Wash dock will receive an update with Apple Home support. However, the company has not yet given an exact timeline for the firmware release.

Why it matters

Apple hasn’t paid much attention to the HomeKit platform and the Home app in a long time. Support for robot vacuum cleaners is the first step toward turning iOS into a full-fledged smart home control center. Centralized control through HomeKit makes everyday use of appliances easier and connecting new devices more convenient.

Apple’s HomeKit platform is the first step in making iOS a full-fledged smart home control center.

If you already have a compatible robot vacuum cleaner, the update to iOS 18.4 will definitely open up new possibilities for you. If you don’t, now’s the time to consider buying one.