AllYouCanTech

Robot Vacuum Models That Work with HomeKit

**Robot Vacuums and HomeKit: A Revolutionary Approach to Smart Cleaning**

With the launch of iOS 18.4 earlier this year, Apple made considerable improvements to the Home app, enabling users to incorporate robot vacuums into HomeKit for the first time, thanks to the Matter smart home standard. This integration paves the way for exciting opportunities in smart home automation.

### What Can You Achieve with a Robot Vacuum in HomeKit?

By incorporating a compatible robot vacuum into the Home app, users can oversee their devices alongside other HomeKit accessories. This integration allows for numerous automations and scenes, permitting users to program cleaning sessions for specific times or as part of wider home routines. For example, you can automate cleaning tasks for certain rooms at set times.

Additionally, if your robot vacuum has both vacuuming and mopping capabilities, the Home app offers choices to switch between these functions. Users can also check the vacuum’s current state, such as if it is cleaning or recharging.

Integration with HomeKit allows users to control their robot vacuums via Siri. Commands like “Siri, clean the living room” or “Siri, mop the kitchen” enable hands-free management. However, for more advanced features like mapping, object avoidance settings, and custom paths, users will still need to use the manufacturer’s app.

### Which Robot Vacuums Are Compatible with HomeKit?

The embrace of the Matter smart home standard has resulted in an expanding roster of robot vacuums that support HomeKit integration. Prominent brands and their compatible models include:

– **Ecovacs**: Dedicated to HomeKit integration, Ecovacs has started deploying updates for several models.

– **Roborock**: This brand has assured HomeKit support for multiple models, including the Roborock Qrevo Slim, with additional models anticipated in the future.

– **SwitchBot**: The SwitchBot S20 Robot Vacuum and Mop is presently compatible with HomeKit, as is the SwitchBot K11+.

– **iRobot**: Recently, iRobot has initiated the rollout of Matter support for new models. However, the company has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and will be taken over by Shenzhen Picea Robotics Co.

– **Eufy**: The Eufy E28 Robot Vacuum supports HomeKit integration via the Matter standard.

– **DREAME**: Future Matter firmware updates are predicted to add HomeKit support to the X50 Ultra and X40 Ultra Robot Vacuums.

– **Tapo**: The Tapo LiDAR Smart Navigation Robot Vacuum now provides HomeKit support through Matter.

### Summary

The inclusion of robot vacuum support in the Home app is an appreciated enhancement for the HomeKit platform, which has frequently been viewed as underused. As more users embrace HomeKit-compatible robot vacuums, the possibilities for smart home automation keep growing. Whether you currently have a suitable robot vacuum or are contemplating acquiring one, the integration presents a simple and effective cleaning solution.

Apple Hints at Significant Announcement for Apple Fitness+ in 2026

Apple has hinted at an exhilarating advancement for its Apple Fitness+ service, teasing “something significant” set to debut in 2026. This announcement was shared through an Instagram Reel on the Apple Fitness+ account, displaying various people perusing a fictional publication titled “Apple Fitness+ Times.” The newspaper boasts several striking headlines that indicate major changes and new content are forthcoming.

### Notable Points from the Teaser

1. **New Year Strategies**: One headline states, “WHAT’S APPLE FITNESS+ PLANNING FOR THE NEW YEAR? Trainers seen filming brand new material.” This suggests that Apple is preparing for new offerings as the new year draws near.

2. **Significant Changes Ahead**: Another headline proclaims, “SOMETHING BIG IS COMING TO APPLE FITNESS+,” indicating that important updates or features are anticipated in 2026.

3. **Launch Countdown**: The statement “THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS. APPLE FITNESS+ 2026 IS ALMOST HERE” underscores the excitement surrounding the forthcoming updates.

4. **Professional Insights**: The teaser also features a headline that notes, “EXCLUSIVE: 2026 PLANS STILL UNDER WRAPS – FOR NOW. Experts forecast January as a month to watch,” suggesting that additional details may emerge soon.

The teaser corresponds with recent findings indicating that Apple Fitness+ is undergoing an evaluation phase, as mentioned in a Bloomberg article. Nevertheless, the company seems dedicated to improving its service, underscored by its recent expansion into 28 new markets, aided by AI-driven voice dubbing.

### Expected Developments

While details are still limited, the teaser implies that the new content may tie in with New Year’s fitness goals, a period when many people aim to enhance their health and wellness. Furthermore, Apple is anticipated to roll out an AI-driven health service in 2026, although it remains uncertain if this will correlate with the imminent Fitness+ updates.

As the countdown to 2026 commences, fitness aficionados and Apple users are excited to discover what innovations and improvements Apple Fitness+ will present. The teaser has ignited interest and speculation within the community, encouraging users to express their opinions on prospective new features in the comments section of the post.

In summary, Apple Fitness+ is set for a thrilling transformation in 2026, featuring new content and functionalities expected to enrich the user experience. As the new year approaches, all attention will be on Apple to reveal how it intends to enhance its fitness service.

Anticipated Release of CarPlay Ultra for Your Automobile: What We Have Learned

**CarPlay Ultra: The Future of In-Car Connectivity**

Earlier this year, Apple officially unveiled CarPlay Ultra, the next-gen iteration of its acclaimed in-car interface, which was first introduced at WWDC 2022. CarPlay Ultra began its rollout in May 2025, initially made available to Aston Martin owners in the U.S. and Canada. Nonetheless, many are eager to know when other automakers will embrace this innovative technology.

### Next-Gen CarPlay Brands

In December 2023, Apple announced that Porsche and Aston Martin would be the first manufacturers to implement CarPlay Ultra starting in 2024. Despite this revelation, the timeline has encountered setbacks, with Apple confirming in January 2025 that the rollout of next-generation CarPlay had been delayed but remained in progress. As of now, Apple has not shared a timeline for when CarPlay Ultra will reach other brands beyond Aston Martin, nor does it maintain a detailed list of manufacturers committed to the platform.

During the initial announcement in June 2022, Apple indicated that multiple brands had committed to support the next-generation CarPlay. By May 2025, three additional partners—Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis—were confirmed. However, various automakers have since retreated from their commitments. For example, Mercedes-Benz has cancelled its plans to adopt next-gen CarPlay, and reports suggest that Audi, Volvo, Polestar, and Renault have also withdrawn their support despite prior commitments.

As of December 2025, the following automakers are confirmed to support CarPlay Ultra:

– Acura
– Aston Martin
– Ford
– Genesis
– Honda
– Hyundai
– Infiniti
– Jaguar
– Kia
– Land Rover
– Lincoln
– Nissan
– Porsche

### Hyundai’s Plans

Recent speculation indicates that Hyundai’s forthcoming IONIQ 3 electric vehicle may include support for CarPlay Ultra. Expected to debut in early 2026, possibly at the Brussels Motor Show in January, the IONIQ 3 is projected to start at around £25,000 ($33,700), considerably more economical than the luxury Aston Martin.

### Ford’s Plans

Ford has also been identified as a collaborator for CarPlay Ultra, but the automaker has voiced concerns regarding the platform’s initial version. In a recent interview, Ford CEO Jim Farley acknowledged the company’s allegiance to Apple while also expressing discontent with the first iteration of CarPlay Ultra. This denotes a careful yet receptive stance on future collaboration.

### Wrap Up

As the CarPlay Ultra landscape continues to evolve, the pivotal question remains whether additional automakers will retract their plans to support the platform. Apple has yet to supply a thorough list of partners, leaving consumers and industry analysts eager for more information. For those interested in the features of CarPlay Ultra, additional details can be accessed in dedicated coverage.

### Conclusion

CarPlay Ultra signifies a major leap in in-car technology, offering improved connectivity and integration for drivers. As more manufacturers join the initiative, it will be fascinating to observe how this new platform influences the future of in-car experiences.

Apple Found in a Stronger Stance Against Rivals as Notebook Shipments Expected to Decrease by 2026, As per Report

### Obstacles Encountered by Notebook Manufacturers in 2026: A TrendForce Analysis

A recent analysis from TrendForce underscores notable obstacles that notebook producers are projected to face in 2026, largely influenced by increasing memory costs. Nevertheless, Apple is expected to be less impacted than its rivals.

#### Apple Less Vulnerable to Broader Memory Supply Issues

TrendForce has updated its outlook for the worldwide notebook sector, forecasting a total of 173 million unit shipments in 2026. This signifies a 5.4% reduction from 2025. The analysis points to sluggish economic recovery and restrained consumer spending as contributing variables to this decline.

As per TrendForce, the surging prices of memory parts are constricting profit margins for notebook brands, restricting their pricing options. Consequently, manufacturers are taking a more cautious stance on inventory management and product promotions.

Should memory supply challenges persist, the drop in shipments could potentially reach 10.1%. Nonetheless, Apple is predicted to handle these obstacles more adeptly than other brands. The company’s integrated supply chain and robust pricing power afford it greater adaptability in modifying its product range. Furthermore, Apple’s stable procurement levels and reliable demand forecasting allow it to secure prioritized collaboration with memory suppliers.

#### Apple’s Strategic Edge

TrendForce posits that, despite the daunting market conditions, Apple is poised to gain from continuous supply chain efficiencies and scale benefits. The expected launch of an affordable MacBook in the spring of 2026 is likely to boost Apple’s market presence and sustain impressive shipment performance. Attractive pricing for this new offering could lure more customers, further reinforcing Apple’s standing in the market.

#### Shifts in Display Technology

The analysis also highlights a projected dip in LCD panel shipments, anticipated to decline by 7.9% year-on-year in 2026. Conversely, OLED shipments are expected to keep growing, albeit at a more gradual pace. This transition in display technology mirrors evolving consumer preferences and improvements in manufacturing techniques.

In conclusion, while the notebook industry braces for substantial challenges in 2026, Apple’s strategic strengths may enable it to endure the turbulence more effectively than its competitors. The company’s capability to adjust to rising memory costs and launch competitively priced products will be essential for sustaining its market position.

Holiday Tech Assistance: Keep Support and Inquire 9to5Mac Services

### Tech Support Stories and iOS 26 Insights: A Retrospective on 2025

As the holiday period comes to a close, Benjamin Mayo and Chance Miller return with captivating tales from the tech support domain, recounting their experiences and hurdles encountered in the field. This edition of the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast delves into the realities of tech support, showcasing the frequently amusing and frustrating scenarios that occur when technology fails to perform as expected.

#### iOS 26 Hold Assist: A Mixed Experience

In this show, the hosts also explore the newly introduced iOS 26 Hold Assist feature. Although it was hoped to enhance user experiences, listener feedback indicates that it may not meet expectations in real-world use. This part of the discussion underscores the discrepancy between theoretical technological advancements and their actual use, igniting a dialogue about user experience and practicality.

#### Ask9to5Mac Segment

To conclude the episode, Benjamin and Chance interact with their audience through the Ask9to5Mac segment. They respond to questions posed by listeners, offering insights and guidance on various tech-related subjects. This participatory segment of the podcast nurtures a sense of community and motivates listeners to engage actively.

#### 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus

For those seeking additional exclusive content, the hosts promote the 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus subscription. This premium option features ad-free episodes, extra pre- and post-show content, and special bonus episodes. Subscribers can directly support Benjamin and Chance while enjoying enriched content for just $5 a month or $50 a year.

#### Hosts

– **Chance Miller**
– **Benjamin Mayo**

#### Feedback and Interaction

Listeners are invited to send their inquiries and feedback through a variety of platforms, including Twitter, Mastodon, and Threads, or by emailing [email protected]. This interaction enables the hosts to adjust content to better align with their audience’s interests and concerns.

### Conclusion

The 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast remains a significant resource for tech aficionados, mixing humor, insights, and community interaction. As Benjamin and Chance review the past year and anticipate what lies ahead, their discussions stay relevant and enjoyable for anyone intrigued by the constantly changing landscape of technology.