For robotic vacuum cleaners, integration into the smart home is playing an increasingly important role. Roomba models from iRobot can now be integrated much more effectively with Apple's HomeKit. In recent weeks, iRobot has equipped several robotic vacuum cleaners with Matter support via an update. This enables control via the Home app and Siri, without the need for workarounds or additional platforms.
Matter is increasingly becoming the de facto standard for smart home devices. With iOS 18.4, Apple officially integrated Matter-enabled robot vacuums into HomeKit for the first time. Shortly thereafter, iRobot responded by expanding support to include several Roomba models. This is particularly relevant for households that already rely heavily on Apple Home and prefer centralized control.
Enhanced Matter support for Roomba
Matter integration has been available for the Roomba Combo 10 Max since the beginning of the year. What's new is that other models can now also receive this feature. A firmware update will enable Matter to be added to the Roomba Plus 500 Combo, the Roomba Max 700 Vac, and the Roomba Max 700 Combo.
Not all devices are currently supported. Matter has not yet been reactivated for the Roomba Combo j7 and Roomba j9. It is currently unclear whether and when these models will be supported.
Requirements for HomeKit integration
To add a Matter-enabled Roomba to the Home app, a device running iOS 18.4 or later is required. A Home Hub is also necessary. Apple TV and HomePod are supported. Integration with HomeKit is not possible without such a hub.
Control via Home app and Siri
Once integrated into the Home app, basic functions are available. These include starting and stopping cleaning, as well as targeted vacuuming or mopping of individual rooms or defined areas. Voice control via Siri is also possible.
The functionality of the Home app is not entirely identical to that of the iRobot app. Advanced, specialized functions are still missing. However, the available commands are sufficient for everyday cleaning tasks.
Automation and interaction with other devices
A key advantage of Matter support is its integration into automations. A Roomba can be set to clean automatically at specific times or react to events. Typical triggers include leaving the house, fixed cleaning times, or sensor readings.
Other HomeKit devices can also play a role. Activating an accessory like a lamp, for example, can start a cleaning cycle. This makes the Roomba part of a connected smart home and allows it to work together with other devices.
Matter and the market for robotic vacuum cleaners
At the beginning of the year, Apple laid the foundation for Matter-connected robot vacuums with iOS 18.4. Besides Roomba, other manufacturers have also introduced similar solutions. These include Roborock, Ecovacs, and SwitchBot. Matter is thus increasingly establishing itself as a common standard in the smart home sector.
Current situation at iRobot
The expansion of Matter support comes at a difficult economic time for iRobot. At the beginning of December, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. In connection with this, iRobot was sold to Picea Robotics. Picea has been producing individual Roomba devices for some time.
The acquisition is expected to be completed by February 2026. According to iRobot, there will be no interruptions to app functionality, product support, or existing customer programs. iRobot will remain a privately held company in the long term. The Roomba brand will continue, and new models are already in development.
iRobot is consistently pushing forward with Roomba integration into Apple Home
With expanded Matter support, Roomba significantly strengthens its position within the Apple ecosystem. Integration with HomeKit, control via Siri, and the ability to incorporate it into automations ensure greater everyday usability in the smart home. Despite the ongoing acquisition and insolvency proceedings, iRobot demonstrates its active commitment to the further development of the Roomba product line. (Image: iRobot)
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