During the WWDC event in June, Apple unveiled iOS 18, highlighting several new features for both HomeKit and the Home app, including support for robotic vacuums. However, this functionality did not make its debut in the initial iOS 18 releases, and Apple has discreetly confirmed that HomeKit compatibility with robotic vacuum cleaners has been delayed until 2025.
HomeKit to incorporate robotic vacuum support next year
Initially, Apple’s Home app webpage indicated that robotic vacuum support would arrive with a forthcoming iOS 18 update later this year. However, as reported by MacRumors, the page has now been updated with a note clarifying that the feature will now be available early next year.
The footnote states, “Feature will be available in early 2025.” Apple also highlights that controlling robotic vacuum cleaners through Siri will only be available in U.S. English.
The anticipated support for robotic vacuum cleaners in HomeKit follows the formalization of the Matter 1.2 standard last year, which includes vacuum cleaner support. While specific details on how this integration will function are scarce, users are expected to initiate cleaning tasks from the Home app or via Siri commands.
It is also probable that robotic vacuums will be compatible with automations and scenes within the Home app. Roborock has already committed to incorporating HomeKit support in their Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra robotic vacuum in the near future, and it is hoped that other manufacturers will soon follow suit.
With the release of iOS 18, Apple has made it simpler for users to invite temporary guests to manage their HomeKit accessories. This update also introduced support for Ultra Wideband door locks.
Additional iOS 18 features facing delays
Alongside the support for robotic vacuum cleaners in the Home app, several other features of iOS 18 announced during WWDC have also been postponed. The first installment of Apple Intelligence features was released in October, one month post the public launch of iOS 18. Currently, Apple is testing additional AI capabilities with the iOS 18.2 beta, while more advanced Siri functionalities have also been pushed to next year.
iOS 18 is available for iPhone XR and newer models. To update your device, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update.
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