TL;DR
At CES, Narwal introduced the Flow 2 robot vacuum and other cleaning devices equipped with on-board AI that can identify objects, monitor pets, and avoid valuables. The Flow 2 uses dual 1080p cameras and a local-first recognition system with cloud fallback, and offers specialized modes for pets, babies and tagged floor items.
What happened
Narwal unveiled a new lineup of smart cleaners at CES centered on the Flow 2 robot. The Flow 2 uses two 1080p RGB cameras with a wide 136-degree field of view to build room maps and run AI object-recognition models. The vacuum attempts to classify items locally and will send data to cloud services when a match isn’t found. The device supports three named operation modes: a pet-focused mode that lets owners define pet zones and includes monitoring plus two-way audio; a baby-oriented mode that quiets the robot near a crib and alerts users about misplaced toys; and an AI floor-tag mode that detects and avoids valuable items such as jewelry while notifying the user. The Flow 2 also offers multiple cleaning settings, a mop-wash-and-repeat routine with higher-temperature washing, and easy-lift tanks. Narwal additionally showed a handheld U50 with UV-C and heat treatment for allergens and an unnamed cordless model with a long run time and an auto-empty base.
Why it matters
- Embedding object recognition into vacuums could reduce accidental damage to small valuables and toys.
- Onboard cameras and cloud fallback raise new usability possibilities but also amplify data and privacy considerations.
- Specialized modes aim to reduce disturbance around sensitive areas like cribs or pet resting zones.
- Built-in mop-wash routines and higher-temperature washing target improved sanitation and allergen control.
Key facts
- Flow 2 uses two 1080p RGB cameras with a 136-degree field of view to map and identify objects.
- The device prioritizes local object identification, sending unrecognized items to the cloud for processing.
- Three custom modes: pet care, baby care, and AI floor tag for valuables and toy detection.
- Pet mode includes zone definition, monitoring, and two-way audio; the manufacturer notes no guarantee pets will respond.
- Baby mode reduces noise near cribs and sends notifications about misplaced toys.
- AI floor tag mode recognizes items like jewelry, avoids them and alerts the user.
- Flow 2 has four cleaning modes and can return to its base to wash the mop and re-mop dirty spots; its design supports higher hot-water washing temperatures.
- Narwal showed a handheld U50 weighing 1.41 kg with UV-C sterilization and heat treatment for allergen removal.
- An unnamed cordless vacuum was demoed with a slim form factor, 360-degree swivel, up to 50 minutes runtime, and an auto-empty station supporting up to 60 days of dust disposal.
- Narwal announced these products at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES).
What to watch next
- Exact retail pricing and when the Flow 2 and other models will ship: not confirmed in the source.
- How Narwal handles user data, camera footage retention, and cloud processing in privacy policies: not confirmed in the source.
- Real-world accuracy of the object-recognition models and how often items are sent to the cloud: not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- AI model: A trained algorithm that processes input data (like images) to identify patterns or classify objects.
- Cloud processing: Sending data to remote servers over the internet for computation, storage, or analysis.
- Two-way audio: A communication feature that allows both listening and speaking through a device remotely.
- UV-C sterilization: Use of short-wavelength ultraviolet light to inactivate microorganisms on surfaces.
- Auto-empty station: A docking base that automatically transfers debris from the vacuum into a larger disposal container.
Reader FAQ
When will Narwal’s Flow 2 be available to buy?
Not confirmed in the source.
Does the vacuum process images locally or send them to the cloud?
The device attempts local identification first and falls back to cloud processing when no local match is found.
Can owners talk to pets through the vacuum?
The unit includes two-way audio for check-ins, though the company noted pets may not respond reliably.
Are there details about pricing, subscriptions, or privacy policies?
Not confirmed in the source.
Robot vacuum maker Narwal unveiled its new set of smart vacuum cleaners at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) with AI-powered features such as monitoring pets, finding valuable objects, and notifying…
Sources
- Narwal adds AI to its vacuum cleaners to monitor pets and find jewelry
- "It can see better than me… 😳 This is the the @Narwal …
- AI Camera Robot Vacuums: Smarter, Faster Cleaning
- Narwal's Flow 2 robovac might help you find that earring …
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