TL;DR
A recent Roomba firmware update expands Matter compatibility to four additional models, enabling HomeKit control through iOS 18.4 or later. The rollout arrives as iRobot moves through Chapter 11 and prepares for acquisition by Shenzhen Picea Robotics Co.
What happened
Users on Reddit and iRobot’s updated compatibility lists indicate that a firmware update has added Matter support for multiple Roomba models. The company’s official list now names the Roomba Plus 500 Combo, Roomba Max 700 Vac, Roomba Max 700 Combo, and Roomba Combo 10 Max as Matter-compatible. With Matter active, these robots can be added to Apple’s Home ecosystem and controlled from the Home app or via Siri on devices running iOS 18.4 or newer. iRobot’s guidance says Wi‑fi connected robots will download updates automatically when on their Home Base and may take up to 24 hours to receive a new release; actual installation should take about 10 minutes and will occur only when the robot is idle and docked. The company also published step-by-step directions in its Roomba and iRobot Home apps for adding a robot to a Matter ecosystem. The update comes amid iRobot’s Chapter 11 filing and a planned acquisition by Shenzhen Picea Robotics Co.
Why it matters
- Brings Apple Home integration to more Roombas through the cross‑platform Matter standard.
- Makes basic vacuum control — scheduling and starting sessions — accessible via the Home app and Siri.
- Matter compatibility can simplify connecting Roombas to multi‑vendor smart home setups.
- The firmware expansion coincides with iRobot’s Chapter 11 filing and a pending acquisition, which could affect future support or development.
Key facts
- Newly listed Matter-compatible Roomba models: Roomba Plus 500 Combo; Roomba Max 700 Vac; Roomba Max 700 Combo; Roomba Combo 10 Max.
- Matter-based HomeKit access requires iOS 18.4 or later for Apple Home integration.
- Users reported the change on Reddit; iRobot’s compatibility list reflects the update.
- Wi‑fi connected robots will automatically download updates when docked and online; updates may take up to 24 hours to arrive.
- Installation of a downloaded update typically takes about 10 minutes and happens only when the robot is not cleaning and is on its Home Base.
- iRobot provides in‑app steps to add a robot to a Matter ecosystem from both the Roomba Home app and the iRobot Home (Classic) app.
- After joining a Matter ecosystem, the robot can be managed from the ecosystem vendor’s app (for example, Apple Home).
- iRobot has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and is set to be acquired by Shenzhen Picea Robotics Co.
What to watch next
- Check iRobot’s Software Release Notes for details on this and future firmware builds (confirmed in the source).
- Whether additional Roomba models will receive Matter/HomeKit support: not confirmed in the source.
- How software support and feature development proceed under the pending Shenzhen Picea Robotics Co acquisition: not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Matter: An industry standard for smart home device interoperability designed to make products from different manufacturers work together.
- HomeKit: Apple’s framework and app ecosystem for controlling smart home devices on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.
- Over‑the‑air (OTA) update: A method for delivering software updates to devices wirelessly without manual installation.
- Chapter 11: A U.S. bankruptcy process that allows a company to reorganize its debts while continuing operations.
Reader FAQ
Which Roomba models gained Matter/HomeKit compatibility?
Roomba Plus 500 Combo; Roomba Max 700 Vac; Roomba Max 700 Combo; and Roomba Combo 10 Max are listed as Matter-compatible.
What iOS version is required to use Home with these Roombas?
iOS 18.4 or later is required for Apple Home integration via Matter.
How do I update my Roomba to get Matter support?
iRobot states Wi‑fi connected robots will download updates automatically when docked and online; installation takes about 10 minutes and occurs only when the robot is idle on its Home Base.
Will other Roomba models get Matter support?
Not confirmed in the source.
Does this change relate to iRobot’s corporate situation?
Yes — the update arrives as iRobot has filed for Chapter 11 and is slated to be acquired by Shenzhen Picea Robotics Co.
Here are six exciting Apple product launches to look forward to in 2026 Michael Burkhardt Dec 27 2025 HOMEKIT ROOMBA Roomba expands Matter support, adding HomeKit compatibility to multiple vacuums…
Sources
- Roomba expands Matter support, adding HomeKit compatibility to multiple vacuums
- Matter – Overview and FAQ's
- Apple Home Adds Support for Robot Vacuums with iOS 18
- These robot vacuums are getting upgraded to support …
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