Good news for robot vacuum owners arrived Monday with Apple’s iOS 18.4 release. The update allows you to control robot vacuums through the Apple Home app using Matter protocol.
You can now add vacuums to automations and scenes in Home. Major manufacturers like Roborock, iRobot, and Ecovacs are releasing firmware updates for full compatibility.
Roborock Updates
Roborock’s firmware update enhances Matter protocol across several premium models. Compatible devices include the S8 MaxV Ultra, Saros Z70, Saros 10, Saros 10R, Qrevo Curv, Qrevo Edge, and Qrevo Master.
These models will receive updates between April 1-10. Users can then control their vacuums through Home on iPhone, Apple Watch, HomePod, and iPad.
The update also improves connectivity with Google Home and Amazon Alexa platforms. This aligns with Matter’s core purpose, making smart home devices work across different systems.
More Roborock models, including S8 Max Ultra and Qrevo Slim, will get Matter support in the coming weeks and months.
iRobot and Ecovacs Join In
iRobot announced its Roomba Combo 10 Max robot and Auto Wash Dock now work with Matter protocol and Apple Home. Users can start, stop, and schedule room-specific cleanings through the Home app or Siri.
Ecovacs is rolling out Matter 1.4 updates starting today for several models: Deebot X2, X2 Combo, T50, T50 Max, and X8. These updates will release in phases.
Feature Limitations
Apple first announced robot vacuum support in Home through Matter at WWDC 2024 as part of iOS 18. Features include power control, switching between vacuum and mop modes, and room selection.
However, Matter doesn’t support advanced features like mapping or configuring no-go zones. You’ll still need manufacturers’ apps for these functions.
