1 min readApple announced robot vacuum support as part of the Home App back at WWDC last year, and it will finally eventuate this month. Originally tipped to join iOS 18 before the end of 2024, the latest iOS 18.4 update finally brings the Matter standard version 1.2 with it, including basic robovac functionality.
Robovac manufacturers Ecovacs and Roborock are rolling out local firmware updates which will allow Matter-enabled models to use the new features. Roborock's participating models will recieve an update by April 10 (USA time), while Ecovacs' rollout is a bit more staggered.
The Ecovacs X2 Omni and X2 Combo updates are available now, the T50 Max Pro Omni has an update coming later in April, the T50 Pro Omni will gain support in May, and the X8 Pro Omni should already have Matter functionality. Roborock's S8 MaxV Ultra, Saros Z70, 10 and 10R, and Qrevo Curv, Edge, and Master models will recieve an update in the coming days. Other Matter enabled Roborock devices will gain access in the coming months.
With the updates users will be able to use Siri commands through the Home App and HomePod, and use the Home App as a hub for basic control features like remote start. Robovacs will now be able to join in on Automations and Scenes, and work in relation to other devices connected through a supported Matter Hub. While Apple connectivity is the headline, these updates will also allow robovacs to connect to the Matter protocol through other home hubs like Amazon Echo, and Google Nest devices.
These controls mirror the updates to robot vacuums in the Matter standard 1.2 update in 2023. This protocol opened up the ability to remotely start a robovac, receive progress notifications, select cleaning modes, and other various status details of the device. For now you’ll still need your manufacturer app to access mapping since the Matter standard doesn’t support it yet.
