Roborock unveils the Saros Z70, the first robotic vacuum with a mechanical arm

Roborock has made headlines at CES 2025 with the introduction of the Saros Z70, an innovative gadget that promises to reshape the landscape of robotic cleaning. This all-in-one robotic vacuum and mop is distinguished not just by its cleaning capabilities but also by the inclusion of a mechanical robotic arm that can pick up and store items from the floor, marking it as “the world’s first mass-produced robot vacuum cleaner equipped with an OmniGrip intelligent and foldable robotic arm.”

The Saros Z70 arrives with a variety of features typical to Roborock’s lineup, such as a charging dock that automatically empties the dustbin, washes its mopping pads, and replaces them when necessary. However, the standout feature is undoubtedly the retractable arm, which automatically deploys to relocate lighter objects, such as towels, tissues, socks, and sandals—specifically items weighing up to 10.6 ounces. According to Roborock, users will be able to program the bot through its app to decide where these items should be placed, enabling custom locations such as directing tissues into a rubbish bin or sandals to a closet.

At launch, the robotic arm will have limited functionality, but the company has indicated plans to release updates that will enhance its capabilities, including expanding the inventory of recognised objects beyond the initial 100. Users will also be able to teach the robot to recognise up to 50 custom objects.

The Saros Z70 is characterized by a powerful suction capability of 22,000 Pa, positioning it among the most potent cleaners in the market. The unit’s compact design—measuring just 3.14 inches high—allows it to navigate under furniture with ease, a feature made possible by its new Time-of-Flight sensors which have replaced the previously used LiDAR technology. Additionally, the onboard RGB camera not only aids in navigation but doubles as a home security camera.

Voice commands will be available as part of its functionality, with future updates promised to integrate support for Alexa, Google Assistant, and Matter. These features suggest that Roborock is focused on creating a comprehensive smart home device that goes beyond vacuuming.

While the Saros Z70 is expected to be available in the market in the first half of 2025, there remain questions about its overall performance and reliability. Industry experts have noted that much of the device’s promised functionality will rely on the timely deployment of software updates. Observers have commented on the potential of the Saros Z70 to push the boundaries of automation in home cleaning, with some viewing the concept as both innovative and somewhat gimmicky at present.

As Roborock continues to evolve its technology and integrate advanced AI into its devices, the Saros Z70 represents a significant step forward in the realm of robotic domestic assistance, aiming to deliver both efficiency in cleaning tasks and convenience for everyday household management.

Source: Noah Wire Services