Controlling your robot vacuum with Siri has never been easier. Our easy guide will show you how to simplify your cleaning routine with voice commands.
Compatible with select models like the Narwal Freo X Ultra, Narwal Freo X Plus, and Narwal Freo Versatile, you can easily integrate these devices into your HomeKit ecosystem. With the right HomeKit-compatible hub and an up-to-date iOS device, you'll be ready to set up and manage your robot vacuum using Siri.
Follow our detailed instructions to unbox, connect, and customize your robot vacuum's settings for seamless operation and a smarter home.
Prerequisites
Not all robot vacuums are compatible with Siri. However, our models work well with Apple's voice assistant. These are some of the models:
HomeKit-Compatible Devices
To control your robot vacuum with Siri, you might need a HomeKit hub. This could be:
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HomePod or HomePod Mini
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Apple TV (4th generation or later)
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iPad (running iOS 10 or later, configured as a HomeKit hub)
iOS Device
Ensure you have an iPhone or iPad running a recent version of iOS, as this will be necessary for setup and control through the Home app and Siri.
Setting Up Your Robot Vacuum
For this part, it’s best if you pay attention more. Try and follow these steps to ensure you’re able to control your robot vacuum with Siri.
Step 1: Unbox and Charge.
Start by unboxing your robot vacuum and plugging it into the charger. Let it charge fully before proceeding with the setup.
Step 2: Wi-Fi Connection.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to connect your vacuum to your home Wi-Fi network. This usually involves using the vacuum’s dedicated app.
Step 3: Download the App.
Go to the App Store on your iOS device and download the app specific to your robot vacuum (e.g., Narwal's app for Narwal Freo X Ultra). This app will guide you through the setup process and allow you to manage your vacuum settings.
Connecting the Robot Vacuum to HomeKit
Once you’re through with the above procedures, proceed to enable HomeKit integration. To do so, follow these steps:
Step 1: Open the Robot Vacuum App. Navigate to the settings section within the app.
Step 2: Find HomeKit or Siri Integration. Look for options related to HomeKit or Siri integration. This might be labeled differently depending on the brand.
Add Device to HomeKit
Step 1: Open the Home App. On your iOS device, open the Home app.
Step 2: Tap the "+" Icon. Select "Add Accessory."
Step 3: Scan the HomeKit Code. Use your iPhone or iPad to scan the HomeKit setup code found on your vacuum or within the app. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
Configuring Siri Commands
By default, Siri will control the robot (start, pause, etc.) based on the exact name of the shortcut you've created. Therefore, you must always use the precise name of the shortcut when instructing Siri.
However, you can customize the phrase you use to control the robot vacuum. For example, instead of saying, "Start my robot vacuum," you can rename the shortcut to "clean the house," which is what most people use. Similarly, instead of saying, "Pause my robot vacuum," you can rename that shortcut to "Pause the cleaning." You can apply this customization to each shortcut. For those who want to name your robot but haven’t got an idea, we have a blog post recommending our 47 thoughtfully picked funny and good names for a robot vacuum.
An alternative approach is to duplicate your shortcuts. Essentially, you can create multiple identical shortcuts with different names. Although they perform the same function, they can be activated by Siri using various key phrases.
For example, you can duplicate the "Hey Siri, start the vacuum" shortcut multiple times, naming one "Clean the house" and another "Send the robot to the kitchen." This provides flexibility in how you instruct Siri to command the robot. Ultimately, you will need to use the exact shortcut name for Siri to execute the command.
It's important to note that using Siri's voice commands to start your robot vacuum works flawlessly on your iPhone or iPad. However, it can be less reliable when initiated from your HomePod.
HomePod users familiar with home automation might not be surprised. However, the shortcut might be inconsistent when used with a HomePod. Sometimes, it works perfectly, and other times it reports a problem. This issue lies with HomeKit, not the shortcut itself, and is beyond your control.
Custom Shortcuts
For more tailored control, you can create custom Siri Shortcuts:
Step 1: Open the Shortcuts App. On your iOS device, open the Shortcuts app.
Step 2: Create a New Shortcut. Tap the "+" to create a new shortcut.
Step 3: Add Actions. Select actions related to your robot vacuum from the Home app or the robot vacuum's app.
Step 4: Automate Routines. For instance, set a shortcut to start the vacuum when you leave the house or create a specific command like, "Hey Siri, clean the living room."
Troubleshooting and Tips
For connectivity issues, which are common, ensure your Wi-Fi network is stable. Reboot your router if necessary. But when dealing with unresponsive Siri commands, double-check that your robot vacuum is powered on and connected to the network. Also, ensure Siri is properly set up on your iOS device.
Maintenance Tips
You have to do regular cleaning. Clean the vacuum's brushes and empty its dustbin regularly to maintain optimal performance. Additionally, you have to perform software updates. Keep both your iOS device and robot vacuum’s firmware up to date for the best functionality and security.
Final Thoughts
Connecting and controlling your robot vacuum with Siri involves a few straightforward steps: ensuring compatibility, setting up your vacuum, connecting it to HomeKit, and configuring Siri commands.
Remember, the convenience and efficiency gained through smart home automation are immense. With Siri and your robot vacuum working together, you can enjoy a cleaner home without the hassle, allowing you more time to focus on the things that matter most. Also, you might still face some challenges with following the steps discussed above, and for that reason, you can contact us to get more information or help.
