iRobot update brings new features to Roomba and Braava devices, doubling the intelligence of some models

iRobot has released the Genius 4.0 Home Intelligence software update, which is available for Roomba robot vacuums and Braava jet robot mops.

The update includes new functionality for the Roomba i3 and i3+ devices, such as Imprint Smart Mapping, which iRobot claims will double the intelligence of your vacuum. You can now create customized maps, enabling you to send your device to clean a specific room via the app or with a voice command.

Room-specific cleaning preferences are also now available, allowing you to tell the robot how to clean different floors around your house. For the Roomba j series, the update enhances the object recognition function, allowing the gadget to avoid towels and clothing.

New features across other Wi-Fi connected Roomba and Braava devices include a Siri shortcut integration, so you can ask, ‘Hey Siri, ask Roomba to clean everywhere’. Similar functionality already exists for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

A do not disturb mode has been added, allowing you to define time windows when the robot should not run, ensuring your sleep or meetings aren’t interrupted. Also in the update is a child and pet safety lock to avoid accidental starts.