Apple Introduces Home App Support for Robot Vacuums in iOS 18.3 Beta

Apple has released iOS 18.3 beta 1 for developers, marking the beginning of a new phase of testing just five days after iOS 18.2 became publicly available. This beta introduces long-awaited support for robot vacuums in the Home app, a feature Apple originally announced during WWDC 2023 in June.

Robot vacuum integration did not make the cut for the initial iOS 18 launch in September. It was originally expected as part of iOS 18.2, but Apple’s website quietly shifted the feature’s release window from “Later this year” to a more ambiguous “Coming in an update” earlier this month. Now, with iOS 18.3 beta 1, new code suggests the feature will finally arrive early next year.

The new robot vacuum support in the Home app will enable users to access key functionalities, including power control, cleaning modes, vacuum and mop status, and battery charge information. According to Apple, these devices will seamlessly integrate into automations and scenes within the Home app and will also respond to Siri commands. Users will be able to include robot vacuums in customized cleaning routines or even use Siri to trigger spot cleaning in specific areas like the living room.

While iOS 18.3 is still in early beta testing, and features in development could potentially be delayed again, the inclusion of robot vacuum support in the initial beta signals Apple’s readiness to deliver the update soon. This timing aligns with expectations following its absence in iOS 18.2.

Apple has not yet shared details about third-party robot vacuum manufacturers supporting HomeKit. However, the addition of this feature could pave the way for broader smart home adoption as device makers integrate their products into Apple’s ecosystem.

iOS 18.3 is expected to launch publicly in early 2024. This update will bring added functionality to Apple’s smart home platform, offering users greater flexibility in managing connected cleaning devices.