iOS 18.4 Set to Introduce Matter Support for Robot Vacuums
Apple is on the verge of transforming the smart home landscape yet again with the forthcoming iOS 18.4 update. A major highlight of this upgrade is the long-anticipated addition of Matter support for robot vacuums, enabling users to manage compatible devices directly via Apple Home.
With the anticipated launch of iOS 18.4 in April 2025, Apple is ultimately fulfilling its commitment to incorporate robotic vacuum support into its ecosystem. This development signifies a crucial advancement toward a more cohesive smart home environment, as Matter works to unite various smart home platforms.
What is Matter, and Why is It Important?
Grasping the Matter Smart Home Standard
Matter is a comprehensive smart home standard aimed at ensuring trouble-free interoperability among devices from diverse manufacturers. Supported by leading technology firms such as Apple, Google, Amazon, and Samsung, Matter resolves compatibility challenges that have historically troubled smart home users.
By adding Matter support, Apple Home will now be capable of controlling a wide range of smart home gadgets—including robot vacuums—without the need for specific brand applications or hubs. This allows users to handle all their Matter-compatible devices through a single platform, streamlining automation and control.
The Significance of Matter in Robot Vacuums
Robot vacuums were officially welcomed into the Matter ecosystem with version 1.2 in late 2023. Nevertheless, Apple had yet to launch support for these devices. Initially slated for WWDC 2024, the integration of robotic vacuums faced delays, postponing its launch from late 2024 to early 2025 along with iOS 18.4.
Now, with Matter support integrated into Apple Home, users can manage their robot vacuums using voice commands, automation, and the Apple Home application.
Which Robot Vacuums are Matter Compatible on iOS 18.4?
At the onset of the first iOS 18.4 beta, the SwitchBot S10 Robot Vacuum and Mop stands as the sole model confirmed to function with Apple Home through Matter. However, there are certain limitations:
- When the S10 is linked via a SwitchBot hub, it appears as a basic on/off toggle in Apple Home.
- When added directly, it operates as a fully-functional robot vacuum in the Home app.
Other top brands such as Ecovacs and Roborock have secured Matter 1.4 certification, indicating they are poised to implement firmware updates shortly following the release of iOS 18.4. Once these updates are rolled out, users will enjoy a broader selection of Matter-enabled robot vacuums.
How Will iOS 18.4 Enhance Robot Vacuum Operation?
Voice Commands and Automation
With the rollout of Matter support, users will be empowered to command their robot vacuums through Siri voice commands on their iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and HomePod. Key voice-operated capabilities include:
- Initiate or stop cleaning
- Dock back for charging
- Activate or deactivate mopping mode
- Switch among various cleaning modes
Moreover, users can weave their robot vacuums into HomeKit automations and scenes. For instance, they can set up a routine that automatically commences vacuuming as they depart or halts cleaning upon their return.
Enhancements in Matter 1.4
The Matter 1.4 upgrade has introduced a Service Area Cluster feature, enabling users to specify particular rooms or zones via the manufacturer’s app and then control those areas directly through Apple Home. While SwitchBot has yet to implement Matter 1.4, Ecovacs and Roborock have already achieved certification, making them strong prospects for forthcoming updates.
Apple’s delay in activating robot vacuum support may have been due to the fine-tuning of these advanced capabilities, ensuring a more streamlined and user-friendly experience.
Which Other Apple Devices Will Embrace Matter Robot Vacuums?
The Matter update for robot vacuums will not be restricted to iPhones. Apple is anticipated to extend Matter support across various platforms, including:
- iPadOS 18.4
- tvOS 18.4
- macOS 15.4
- watchOS 11.4
This implies that users will be able to command their robot vacuums through iPads, Apple Watches, Macs, and Apple TVs, enhancing the smart home ecosystem even further.
The Implications for the Future of Smart Homes
The introduction of Matter-compatible robot vacuums in Apple Home represents a paradigm shift. It heralds a future where smart home devices from diverse producers can function together effortlessly, resolving the existing fragmentation in the market.
As more manufacturers update their products to comply with Matter 1.4, users will gain increased flexibility in selecting the best robot vacuum to meet their preferences without the concern of compatibility conflicts.
Conclusion
With iOS 18.4, Apple is at last making good on its pledge to incorporate robot vacuum support through the Matter smart home standard. The update empowers users to control their vacuums via voice commands, automation, and Apple Home, streamlining smart home management like never before.
While SwitchBot currently stands as the only confirmed brand supporting Matter on iOS, other companies like Ecovacs and Roborock are expected to follow closely. As Apple broadens Matter support throughout its ecosystem, users can anticipate a more cohesive and integrated smart home experience in the months to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Matter, and how does it enhance robot vacuum management?
Matter is an inclusive smart home standard formulated to ensure cross-brand compatibility. With iOS 18.4, Apple Home will endorse Matter-enabled robot vacuums, permitting users to command them via Siri, automation, and the Home app.
2. Which robot vacuums will be compatible with Apple Home in iOS 18.4?
Currently, the SwitchBot S10 Robot Vacuum and Mop is the only verified model that adheres to Matter on iOS 18.4. Yet, Ecovacs and Roborock have secured Matter 1.4 certification and are anticipated to release updates soon.
3. Is it possible to command my robot vacuum using Siri?
Absolutely! With Matter support, you can employ Siri voice commands to initiate or cease cleaning, instruct the vacuum to return to its dock, adjust cleaning modes, and toggle mopping functionality.
4. Will Matter support extend to additional Apple devices?
Certainly! Matter support for robot vacuums will also be accessible on iPadOS 18.4, tvOS 18.4, macOS 15.4, and watchOS 11.4, enabling users to manage their vacuums from an array of Apple devices.
5. What led to the delay in Apple’s robot vacuum support?
Apple first announced Matter support for robot vacuums during WWDC 2024, but the rollout was postponed to refine features such as the Service Area Cluster, which lets users define specific cleaning areas within the Home app.
6. Is a hub necessary to operate a Matter-enabled robot vacuum with Apple Home?
No, Matter-enabled robot vacuums can link directly to Apple Home without a separate hub. However, if utilized with a SwitchBot hub, the vacuum might appear as a simple on/off toggle rather than a fully operational vacuum cleaner.
7. When can I expect the iOS 18.4 release?
The iOS 18.4 update is projected to launch in April 2025, with beta testing already in progress for developers.
By incorporating robot vacuums into Apple Home via Matter, Apple is enhancing smart home management to be more intuitive and approachable than ever before. Stay tuned for further updates as manufacturers deploy their Matter firmware upgrades!
