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Apple has implemented a long-awaited feature with the beta version of iOS 18.3: The Home app will finally support robot vacuum cleaners. This innovation is intended to make controlling smart cleaning devices easier and more efficient and offers exciting possibilities for your smart home. But why is the function only coming now, what exactly is changing and how can you benefit from it? You can find all the important information here.
When it comes to smart technology, Apple is always at the forefront. With iOS 18, the company has introduced many improvements to the Home app, but one feature has been missing so far: support for robot vacuum cleaners. Originally planned for the launch of iOS 18, the feature was postponed several times and only now appears in the beta version of iOS 18.3 discovered.
What's new in iOS 18.3?
A big change in iOS 18.3 is the introduction of a new device category in the Home app (via 9to5mac). Robot vacuum cleaners can now be fully integrated into your smart home setup. The following functions are supported:
- Power control: You can directly adjust the suction power of your robot.
- Switch cleaning modes: Choose between vacuuming, mopping, or a combination of both.
- Monitor charging status: Check in the app whether the robot is charging or ready for use.
- Integration into scenes and automations: For example, the robot could start automatically when you leave the house.
- Siri support: Just say “Hey Siri, let the robot clean the living room” and the vacuum cleaner will start cleaning.
This not only controls individual functions, but also allows robot vacuum cleaners to work seamlessly with other HomeKit devices such as lights, thermostats or cameras.
Why did the feature only come now?
Apple announced support for robot vacuum cleaners back in June at WWDC 2024. The plan was to roll out the feature directly with iOS 18 in September. But that never happened. Apple's website initially said the feature would come "later this year." Later, the wording was quietly changed to "coming with an update." It now looks like Apple has revised the schedule to include the feature in iOS 18.3. The beta version already contains new code that enables the control and integration of robot vacuum cleaners. The fact that the feature is now appearing in the beta is a good sign that it will soon be available to everyone.
Beta phase: What you should know
iOS 18.3 is currently in the first beta phase and is only available to developers and beta testers. This means that changes may still occur before the final release. While there is a small chance that the feature will be delayed or removed again, the integration into the code suggests that it is here to stay. However, if you decide to test the beta version, you should be cautious. As with all beta versions, bugs and instability can occur. If you don't want to take any risks, you can simply wait until iOS 18.3 is officially released.
When will iOS 18.3 be released?
There is no exact date for the release of iOS 18.3 yet. However, it is expected that Apple will release the update to all users early next year. Until then, we can hope that other device manufacturers will make their robot vacuum cleaners HomeKit compatible so that as many users as possible can benefit from this update.
The Home app becomes even smarter with iOS 18.3
With iOS 18.3, Apple is taking an important step towards an even more intelligent smart home. Support for robot vacuum cleaners in the Home app makes using these devices not only more convenient but also more versatile. Automation, Siri commands and integration into scenes open up completely new possibilities for organizing your household. If you've always dreamed of starting your robot vacuum cleaner with a simple "Hey Siri" or integrating it into your daily routines, iOS 18.3 is exactly the update you've been waiting for. So get your iPhone ready - the release is coming soon. (Image: Apple)
