Roborock unveils groundbreaking Saros Z70 robot vacuum at CES 2025

At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025, held in Las Vegas, Roborock unveiled its latest innovation in home cleaning technology, the Saros Z70, marking a significant advancement in the automation of housework. This new robot vacuum cleaner is notable for being the first mass-produced robovac equipped with a mechanical arm designed specifically to pick up larger items, such as socks, as it cleans.

Demonstrations of the Saros Z70 began in a press event in New York City prior to the official CES debut, where observers watched as the vacuum navigated, identified, and picked up socks using its arm, named OmniGrip. The interactive spectacle revealed the device’s potential, although it showed some initial challenges in performance, similar to a performer suffering from stage fright. Following a few hiccups, the Saros Z70 effectively demonstrated its capabilities on stage at the Soho House in Manhattan and later in a hotel room at the Venetian, where its sock-picking prowess was showcased.

The Saros Z70 features a five-axis robotic arm capable of lifting objects weighing up to 300 grams (approximately 10.5 ounces), allowing it to deposit retrieved items in designated areas as prompted via a mobile app. Roborock representatives indicated that while the current model excels at identifying black socks over white ones, ongoing software updates are expected to enhance its object recognition capabilities. The vacuum reportedly has the ability to recognise up to 108 different types of obstacles in its environment, providing a solid foundation for future improvements.

Despite its innovative features, the Saros Z70 will not reach consumers until sometime in the first half of this year, with pricing information still pending. High-end robot vacuums typically range from $1,500 to upwards of $2,000, leading to speculation about the potential cost of this new model.

The demo sessions highlighted the vacuum’s learning abilities and problem-solving skills as it adapted to pick up items like socks, small towels, and even wool hats. Occasionally, it would miss its target only to adjust and successfully retrieve the item, showcasing a level of intelligence and responsiveness. Roborock indicated that the device could eventually be trained to clean up other common household items, potentially laying the groundwork for more autonomous cleaning processes.

Moreover, safety features are integrated into the Saros Z70, with a design that prevents it from accidentally capturing pets or children. The robot’s grip is calibrated to avoid causing harm, and additional safety measures, such as a child lock and safety stop button, enhance the device’s user-friendliness.

The technology behind the Saros Z70, which also includes powerful suction capabilities and intelligent navigation, relies on Roborock’s advanced StarSight system, utilising dual-light 3D time-of-flight sensors and RGB cameras, rather than traditional Lidar systems. This innovation significantly enhances the robot’s ability to navigate and recognise its surroundings accurately.

Overall, the unveiling of the Roborock Saros Z70 suggests a shift towards more intelligent and capable automated cleaning solutions in the market, where the potential for continuous learning and adaptability may redefine the future of household chores. This emergence of advanced technologies reflects ongoing trends in artificial intelligence and robotics, promising substantial impacts on business practices within the home electronics industry.

Source: Noah Wire Services