Today, Apple has launched the first beta of iOS 18.3 for developers, just five days after the public release of iOS 18.2. This new update introduces support for a significant new category of devices in the Home app.
New Device Category in iOS 18.3
During WWDC in June, Apple announced that support for robot vacuums would be added to the Home app in iOS 18.
Although robot vacuums were initially expected to be included in the iOS 18 launch back in September, they were ultimately postponed to iOS 18.2.
Up until recently, Apple’s website indicated that this feature would be available “Later this year.”
This timeframe, however, was quietly revised earlier this month to suggest a delay, and it now states, “Coming in an update.”
As noted by Aaron Perris on X, support for robot vacuums will indeed be included in iOS 18.3, as evidenced by the addition of new code in the iOS 18.3 beta 1 that enables this new category of devices.
Here’s a breakdown of what the Home app will support for robot vacuums, as outlined by Apple:
The Home app now offers essential functionality for robot vacuums, including controls for power, cleaning modes, status of vacuuming, mopping, and charging. They can also be incorporated into automations and scenes, and respond to Siri commands. You can now integrate them into your cleaning routines or simply ask Siri to perform a spot clean in the living room.
Since iOS 18.3 is still in early beta, there is a chance that support for robot vacuums may be removed prior to the public release. Nevertheless, the presence of this feature in beta 1 is promising and aligns with the feature’s initial expectation, which slightly missed its iOS 18.2 release timeline.
We hope that when iOS 18.3 launches early next year, Apple will provide encouraging updates regarding the compatibility of HomeKit with robot vacuum manufacturers.
Are you looking forward to adding a robot vacuum to your Home app? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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