SwitchBot Brings True HomeKit Robot Vacuum Control

If you've been waiting for true HomeKit integration with your robot vacuum, good news. SwitchBot just delivered. With iOS 18.4's robot vacuum support through Matter, SwitchBot has emerged as one of the few manufacturers offering direct HomeKit compatibility without requiring a hub. No more clunky bridges or half-baked workarounds, just native controls that feel like the rest of your HomeKit gear.

The real win shows up in automations. The integration allows for sophisticated automation scenarios, you can schedule room-specific cleaning at certain times, integrate vacuum operation with other HomeKit devices, and include cleaning in broader home automation scenes. Picture this, motion sensors see you leave, the vacuum hits high-traffic areas, and it pauses when your Apple TV starts playing so movie night stays quiet. The Home app displays device status information like whether the vacuum is cleaning or charging, so you get quick clarity without digging.

That said, keep expectations grounded. Current Matter implementation for robot vacuums remains fairly basic, and the manufacturer app still handles deeper controls. This includes detailed mapping, custom cleaning routes, and specialized settings that go beyond basic start/stop functionality. The foundation is here for everyday automation, and the brand apps keep pushing the envelope.

What this means for your smart home setup

SwitchBot's HomeKit integration reads like a maturity moment for smart home interoperability. The direct Matter support without requiring additional hubs simplifies setup and reduces potential points of failure compared to older workarounds. Both the K11+ and S20 models support Matter 1.4's section cleaning capabilities, enabling room-specific automation through Apple Home, which turns a simple vacuum into a genuinely smart, schedulable tool.

Choosing a model comes down to space and priorities. The K11+ shines in compact homes, under low sofas, and in tight spots where a standard robot gets stuck. Its gentle noise and lower cost make it a great apartment pick or a targeted cleaner for specific rooms. The S20 suits people who want one machine to handle vacuuming and mopping across larger spaces, backed by higher suction.

Bottom line, Both models represent SwitchBot's commitment to seamless smart home integration, and the native HomeKit support cuts out the complexity that used to spoil the fun. If you've been holding out for a robot vacuum that truly fits inside Apple's ecosystem without compromise, this is the moment when vacuuming starts to feel as effortless as turning on a light or nudging the thermostat.