Yesterday marked the release of the first iOS 18.4 beta, introducing an intriguing enhancement for smart home users that had gone largely unnoticed. Jonathan from Smart Home Centre tested the feature, revealing that the Home app now accommodates robot vacuums and mapping that are compatible with the Matter protocol.
Currently, the only robot vacuum that supports this feature is the Switchbot S10 Robot Vacuum and Mop, though several other brands have promised updates to incorporate Matter support soon.
While most of these robot vacuums come with their own iPhone apps for remote control, the native integration with the Home app facilitates Siri voice commands and allows for seamless interaction alongside your other smart home devices. Additionally, users can easily incorporate vacuum and mop functions into their existing HomeKit automations and scenes.
Once set up, you’ll be capable of controlling your vacuum through voice commands using your iPhone, HomePods, Apple TV, or any other iOS device.
The Apple Home app offers straightforward yet effective controls for the S10 robot vacuums. Users can instruct the vacuum to begin or cease cleaning, enable or disable the mop function, and select preset cleaning modes such as Quick or Deep Clean options. There’s even a “Send to Dock” option that directs the vacuum to return to its charging station.
For advanced features like room mapping and customized paths, you will still need to access the manufacturer’s companion app. However, for basic operational needs, the Apple Home app suffices.
Currently in development, iOS 18.4 is anticipated to be available as a complimentary iPhone software update in April. Support for Matter-compatible robot vacuums will also be featured in upcoming versions of other Apple operating systems, including iPadOS 18.4, tvOS 18.4, watchOS 11.4, and macOS 15.4.
