During WWDC in June, Apple revealed new features for the HomeKit and Home app with the launch of iOS 18, including the ability to integrate robot vacuum cleaners. Unfortunately, this feature was not part of the initial iOS 18 releases, and Apple has now discreetly announced that support for robot vacuums will be delayed until 2025.
Upcoming Support for Robot Vacuum Cleaners in HomeKit
The Home app webpage on Apple’s site previously indicated that robot vacuum support in HomeKit was set to debut with an iOS 18 update later this year. However, as reported by MacRumors, the webpage has been quietly updated to reflect a new timeline, stating that the feature will be released early next year.
According to the updated footnote, “Feature will be available in early 2025.” Apple has also pointed out that the Siri integration for controlling these vacuum cleaners will only work with U.S. English.
The incorporation of robot vacuum support in HomeKit follows the formalization of the Matter 1.2 standard last year, which includes vacuum cleaner compatibility. While Apple hasn’t shared extensive information on how this integration will be implemented, users will likely be able to initiate cleaning sessions through the Home app or via Siri commands.
It is also expected that these vacuum cleaners will be compatible with Home app automations and scenes. Roborock has announced plans to add HomeKit compatibility to its Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra robot vacuum in the near future, which we hope will encourage other manufacturers to follow suit.
With the introduction of iOS 18, Apple has simplified the process for users to invite temporary guests to manage their HomeKit devices and has added support for Ultra Wideband door locks as well.
Additional Delayed Features in iOS 18
Beyond the Home app’s robot vacuum support, numerous other features announced during the WWDC event for iOS 18 have also faced delays. The first set of Apple Intelligence features was released in October, one month after iOS 18 became publicly available. Apple is actively testing additional AI features with the iOS 18.2 beta, while enhancements to Siri have also been pushed to next year.
iOS 18 is compatible with iPhone XR and later devices. Users can update their devices by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update.
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