Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai Robot: First Look at Stain-Seeking Tech
▼ Summary
– The Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai Robot is the company’s first combination vacuum and mop, featuring AI-powered stain detection and a new round design with lidar navigation.
– It includes a multifunction dock that automatically empties the bin, cleans and dries the mop, and manages water tanks without requiring disposable bags.
– Despite Dyson’s claims of superiority over other robot mops, the author’s initial hands-on impression was underwhelming and found the design iterative rather than groundbreaking.
– The robot is notably large due to its roller mop system and onboard infrastructure, though it lacks a lidar tower, potentially allowing it to fit under furniture.
– Dyson plans to launch the Spot+Scrub in China later this year and in the US in 2026, with pricing not yet disclosed.
Dyson’s latest entry into the automated cleaning market, the Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai Robot, combines vacuuming and mopping in a single device, marking the brand’s first foray into this hybrid category. Unveiled at the IFA tech show in Berlin, this model builds upon the foundation laid by last year’s 360 VisNav. Sporting a new circular design, lidar navigation, a self-cleaning roller mop, and a multifunctional docking station, the Spot+Scrub also incorporates AI-driven stain detection, a feature that aims to tackle one of the most persistent shortcomings of robot mops.
During a hands-on preview, the device left a mixed impression. While Dyson’s conventional vacuums are renowned for their performance, their robotic counterparts have historically struggled to meet the same high bar. Although the stain-targeting capability wasn’t demonstrated live, the initial interaction didn’t fully convey a breakthrough in robotic cleaning technology.
The standout innovation is the AI-powered stain recognition system. Using onboard cameras and green lasers to illuminate and analyze messes, the robot identifies, reacts to, and repeatedly cleans spills until they disappear. This approach addresses a common frustration: many robotic mops simply don’t clean as thoroughly as manual efforts. Competing brands like Narwal, iRobot, Ecovacs, and Dreame offer similar dirt detection, but Dyson claims its implementation is more effective.
James Dyson himself expressed dissatisfaction with existing robot mops, noting that they often leave stains behind. He emphasized that the Spot+Scrub’s ability to visually detect and persistently treat soiled areas sets it apart.
Beyond stain removal, the device is designed to recognize and avoid obstacles such as socks and cables. It also abandons the previous vision-based navigation for lidar, which should improve upon the directional issues seen in the VisNav.
The robot’s round shape represents a departure from the squared-off design of its predecessor. It offers strong suction power, peaking at 18,000 Pa on carpets, and uses a long microfiber roller mop for wet cleaning, complemented by a rubber brush for dry debris. The mop retracts automatically over carpets to prevent moisture, though it lacks the protective covers found on some rival models. Pricing remains undisclosed, with a planned release in China later this year and in the U.S. by 2026.
Physically, the Spot+Scrub is notably larger than the VisNav, and its dock is substantial, partly due to the roller mop mechanism, which allows continuous cleaning without frequent returns to base. This design trend is gaining popularity, with brands like Ecovacs and Dreame adopting similar systems. Despite its size, the absence of a lidar tower may allow it to fit under low furniture.
The multifunction dock handles bin emptying, mop washing and drying, and water tank management. It includes separate compartments for clean water, dirty water, and debris, along with a detergent dispenser. A standout feature is the bagless 2-liter dust container, which empties directly into the trash, a practical alternative to disposable bags.
The updated MyDyson app provides real-time cleaning maps thanks to lidar, and users can select from various modes: vacuum only, mop only, or both. The app also logs when the robot revisits a stain for additional cleaning. Future Matter support will enable integration with smart home platforms like Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home.
Despite decades of development, Dyson’s robotic vacuums have yet to truly impress. While the VisNav delivered on suction, its navigation and user experience were only average. The Spot+Scrub feels more evolutionary than revolutionary, but if its AI stain detection performs as promised and navigation is reliable, it could finally elevate Dyson’s standing in the robot vacuum arena. Thorough testing will reveal whether it lives up to the hype.
(Source: The Verge)
