Apple Home Just Got Smarter: Robot Vacuums Now Work with Matter in iOS 18.4

The dream of a fully integrated smart home is closer than ever, thanks to Apple’s latest update. With the release of iOS 18.4 on March 31, 2025, robot vacuums from top brands like Roborock, iRobot, and Ecovacs now support Matter, enabling seamless control through the Apple Home app. This development marks a significant milestone for smart home enthusiasts seeking a more cohesive and user-friendly experience.

What’s New in iOS 18.4?

iOS 18.4 introduces Matter compatibility for robot vacuums, allowing users to manage their devices directly from the Apple Home app. Basic controls like starting, stopping, and switching between vacuuming and mopping modes are now accessible without needing to switch apps. Additionally, automations can be set up to clean specific rooms at designated times. However, advanced functionalities such as mapping and zone avoidance still require the use of the manufacturer’s dedicated app, as Apple’s integration focuses primarily on essential controls.

Andrew Liszewski, a senior reporter at The Verge, described this as a transformative upgrade. He pointed out that Matter 1.4—the most recent version of the smart home protocol—has made cross-platform functionality possible. Apple first hinted at this feature during WWDC 2024, and its official rollout has been highly anticipated by users.

Which Robot Vacuums Are Compatible?

A variety of models from leading brands now support Matter, ensuring users have plenty of options to enhance their smart home setup.

Roborock is rolling out firmware updates between April 1 and 10, 2025, bringing Matter support to popular models like the S8 MaxV Ultra, Saros Z70, and Qrevo Curv. The S8 Max Ultra and Qrevo Slim will receive updates in the coming months. In addition to Apple Home compatibility, Roborock has improved connectivity with Google Home and Amazon Alexa.

iRobot’s Roomba Combo 10 Max + Auto Wash Dock, launched in August 2024, is its first Matter-compatible model. With this update, Siri commands can be used to start, stop, or schedule cleaning sessions without relying on the iRobot app.

Ecovacs began its firmware rollout on March 31, 2025, making models like the Deebot X2, T50, and X8 compatible with Matter. Michelle Jones, Ecovacs’ Associate Brand Marketing Director, emphasized the brand’s commitment to providing users with a smooth transition through phased updates.

Why This Matters

Matter was designed to simplify the smart home ecosystem by enabling devices to work seamlessly across platforms like Apple, Google, and Amazon. Since its introduction in 2023, Matter has steadily expanded its reach, and the inclusion of robot vacuums represents a major step forward. Users no longer need to juggle multiple apps to manage their smart devices, resulting in a more convenient and streamlined experience.

What’s Next?

While iOS 18.4 brings exciting advancements, there’s still room for growth. Advanced features remain tied to manufacturer apps, so users should retain access to Roborock or iRobot software for now. As Matter continues to gain momentum, future updates could deliver even deeper integration, unlocking additional functionalities within the Apple Home app.

For those who own a compatible vacuum and an iPhone, it’s time to embrace a smarter, more connected cleaning experience. The integration of Matter into robot vacuums demonstrates how technology is transforming everyday tasks, making household chores feel more futuristic than ever.

How to Get Started with Matter-Compatible Robot Vacuums

To take full advantage of this new functionality, ensure your device’s firmware is updated to the latest version. Check the manufacturer’s website or app for instructions on installing the update. Once updated, add the vacuum to the Apple Home app by scanning the Matter setup code provided in the device’s manual. From there, explore the available controls and experiment with automations to customize the cleaning schedule.

Conclusion

The integration of Matter into robot vacuums through iOS 18.4 is a game-changer for smart home users. By reducing reliance on multiple apps and enhancing cross-platform compatibility, Apple has made it easier than ever to manage household tasks. While there’s still progress to be made, this update sets the stage for a more unified and efficient smart home ecosystem. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or simply looking to simplify daily routines, the combination of Apple Home and Matter-compatible robot vacuums offers a glimpse into the future of connected living.