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iOS 18.4 Enhances Smart Home Integration with Robot Vacuum Support

Recent reports highlight the upcoming features of iOS 18.4, which will introduce support for robot vacuums through the Matter protocol. As initially noted by 9to5Mac, Smart Home Centre has confirmed the advancements using the Switchbot S10, a device that recently added beta compatibility with Matter.

This new functionality signifies a substantial upgrade in the Apple Home experience, as the robot vacuum can now be integrated into the Home app. Observations shared by Smart Home Centre illustrate the interface, which includes a Home widget featuring a distinct robot vacuum icon. Users will have access to a control screen offering various functionalities such as a start/stop button, mode selections for “Vacuum” or “Vacuum and Mop,” and operational settings like “Quiet” or “Deep Clean.” Additionally, a “Send to Dock” option is available, although it has been noted that this feature merely pauses the S10 rather than directs it back to its docking station.

Moreover, these robot vacuums will be capable of being incorporated into automations and scenes within the Apple ecosystem, allowing users to streamline their smart home routines even further. For a demonstration of these features in action, viewers can check out the video provided by Smart Home Centre.

While the anticipation for Matter support was high last year, it did not come to fruition. Currently, only a limited number of robot vacuum manufacturers have implemented Matter support, and some devices are still pending necessary firmware updates to activate this capability. Among those confirmed to support Matter are several noteworthy brands, who have directly communicated this development to the tech community.

Source
www.theverge.com