How to Add Any Roomba to HomeKit | Matter & Bridge Solutions
If you’re in Smart Home DIY and obviously love the Apple HomeKit ecosystem, you’ll need to control your smart home device with the Apple Home App or Siri voice control. We’ll guide you on how to connect Roomba with HomeKit.
Possible Ways to Add irobot Roomba to Apple HomeKit
As well as our recommended AddToHomeKit solution. There are few solutions for that. Let’s see what they are.
- AddToHomeKit
- HomeBridge
- ATH HomeKit Bridge [Affordable Solution]
- HOOBS
AddToHomeKit [Software Solution]
Most people want to add their smart home devices to Apple HomeKit to control their smart devices using the Apple Home App and Siri voice assistant. Roomba AddToHomeKit is an affordable and friendly way to use your Roomba with Apple Home and Siri.
This solution provides the recommended software and hardware solutions. Especially if you have a busy lifestyle, AddtoHomeKit is perfect for you. You can add any of your smart devices to Apple Home with this solution.
Why Use AddtoHomeKit Solution
- No need to download bulky apps.
- Both App and web based solution.
- Easy and low effort.
- Gives you a seamless experience.
- Less time-consuming.
- Little bit of coding knowledge (compared with other solution).
- Very much simplified.
Homebridge [Software Solution]
Homebridge is a lightweight JS server that emulates the iOS HomeKit API. If you have smart home devices that don’t support HomeKit, you can use HomeBridge to integrate your devices with HomeKit. If you have enough coding experience, you can download Homebridge yourself.
If you want to add iRobot devices to Homekit using simple device solutions, there are a few simple device solutions to add your Roomba iRobot to HomeKit. Let’s see what they are.
ATH HomeKit Bridge [Hardware Solution]
This ATH HomeKit Hub is a better and cheaper solution whose focus is on hardware out-of-the-box solutions. This is the best alternative to Homebridge, which makes smart devices compatible with Apple HomeKit. Also, it connects over 2000 accessories. You can save time as it is a Homebridge pre-installed device.
Our recommended hardware solution is an ATH HomeKit hub to make your Roomba HomeKit compatible. If you lack technical knowledge, then the ATH Homebridge Hub is for you. Other benefits of using Ath Hub are:
- Easy to use - Plug-and-play solution
- Modular - More than 2000 different plugins and devices to select
- No technical knowledge required
Overall, it would be an affordable, easier, and more efficient way to get an ATH Bridge rather than setting up a Homebridge.
HOOBS [Hardware Solution]
HOOBS is a hardware solution that stands for HomeBridge out of the box. It allows you to convert non-HomeKit devices into HomeKit-compatible devices. HOOBS also integrates many devices with HomeKit, and it is compatible with over 2000 accessories.
How to Add Roomba to HomeKit Using Matter?
Newer Roombas join Apple Home through Matter, with no bridge needed. iRobot's Matter list covers the Roomba Combo 10 Max, Roomba Plus 505 Combo, Roomba Max 705 Vac and Roomba Max 705 Combo. You need an iPhone on iOS 18.4 or later and a home hub such as a HomePod or Apple TV. To compare Matter vacuums from other brands, see our guide on how to add a robot vacuum to Apple HomeKit.
From the Roomba Home app (newer robots):
- Update your robot. Docked Roombas install new firmware on their own, which can take up to 24 hours.
- Tap My Home at the bottom of the screen.
- Tap the user account icon at the top.
- Tap Connected Services, then Apple Home.
- Follow the steps in the app to finish pairing.
From the iRobot Home (Classic) app (Combo 10 Max and older app users):
- Tap the menu icon (three lines).
- Tap Smart Home, then Connected Services.
- Tap Apple Home and follow the steps.
iRobot removed Matter from the Roomba Combo j7 and j9 because they were not properly certified, so add those models with Homebridge instead.
How Do I Add a Matter Roomba to Apple Home?
Before you start, check three things. Your iPhone or iPad runs iOS 18.4 or later. An Apple TV, HomePod or HomeView is set up as your home hub. Your Roomba runs the latest firmware. Docked Roombas update on their own, which can take up to 24 hours.
How Do I Pair from the Roomba Home App?
- Open the Roomba Home app and tap My Home.
- Tap the account icon at the top of the screen.
- Tap Connected Services, then Apple Home.
- Follow the prompts to pair the robot with Apple Home.
- In the Home app, choose a room and name your Roomba.
How Do I Pair from the iRobot Home (Classic) App?
- Tap the menu icon (three lines).
- Tap Smart Home, then Connected Services.
- Tap Apple Home and follow the prompts.
Which Method Works for My Roomba?
Find your model below. The model name is in the Roomba app and on the label under the robot. Some models are sold under different numbers in Europe.
| Roomba model | How it joins Apple Home | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Combo 10 Max | Matter | iOS 18.4 or later and a home hub |
| Plus 500 Combo (Plus 505 Combo and Plus 504 Vac in Europe) | Matter | iOS 18.4 or later and a home hub |
| Max 700 Vac, Max 700 Combo (Max 705 in Europe) | Matter | iOS 18.4 or later and a home hub |
| Combo j7+, Combo j9+ | Bridge (iRobot removed Matter from these models) | Homebridge, HOOBS, ATH Bridge or AddToHomeKit |
| j7, j7+, j9+, s9+, i3, i3+, i5, i7, 900 series | Bridge | Homebridge, HOOBS, ATH Bridge or AddToHomeKit |
What Can You do With iRobot Roomba Home Kit Integration?
- Control your Roomba using Siri.
- Start cleaning remotely.
- Create automation scenes.
- Trigger cleaning when leaving home.
- Monitor battery and status.
Apart from Roomba devices, if you're interested in Tuya devices and IKEA devices, you can find Tuya Apple HomeKit and IKEA HomeKit articles further.
Which Roomba Models Work with Apple Home?
| Roomba model | How it joins Apple Home |
|---|---|
| Roomba Combo 10 Max | Matter |
| Roomba Plus 505 Combo (Plus 500 series) | Matter |
| Roomba Max 705 Vac, Max 705 Combo (Max 700 series) | Matter |
| Roomba Combo j7+, Combo j9+ | Homebridge, HOOBS or ATH Bridge (iRobot removed Matter from these models) |
| Roomba j7, j7+, j9+, s9+, i3, i3+, i5, i7, 900 series | Homebridge, HOOBS or ATH Bridge |
What Is the Latest Update for Roomba Siri Integration?
Although Roomba does not support Apple HomeKit natively, iRobot has introduced Siri integration through software updates.Newer Matter models now work in Apple Home directly, see the Matter section above.
Using this iRobot Genius 4.0 Home Intelligence update, you can now
- Control Roomba vacuums as well as Brava mops.
- Simply say “Hey Siri, clean my room”.
- Use Roomba Siri Shortcuts for custom control.
- iRobot Roomba Siri integration is handled through iRobot Home App.
Are you interested in the Roborock devices? Now, you can learn more about adding a Roborock device with Apple HomeKit using our informative article.
How to Control Your Roomba With Siri?
Controlling your Roomba smart vacuum is as simple as the iRobot app natively supports iOS shortcuts. Here are some quick tips for using Siri to operate your Roomba:
- Download the iRobot app from your iPhone.
- Then, open the Apple Shortcut app.
- Click on the plus button.
- On the search bar, type iRobot.
- Now, you’ll see commands like Clean everywhere, Send robot home, and more. You can also create custom shortcuts.
- Pick one shortcut for the first time.
- Tap robot in blue color > pick specific smart vacuum > tap the tiny arrow > set the cleaning mode.
- If you want to rename it, tap on the name and pick rename.
- Tap Done to build this and save it.
Congratulations! Roomba Siri HomeKit is as easy as you think.
We have provided three solutions to your problem, hoping that you can choose the most suitable one. We continue to learn how to use these methods to connect Roomba devices to Apple HomeKit.
Examples Using Siri Shortcuts for Roomba
- Start cleaning → “Hey Siri, start Roomba”
- Stop cleaning → “Hey Siri, stop Roomba”
- Return to dock → Trigger automation
- Start cleaning when leaving home
- Stop cleaning when arriving
How to Add Roomba to HomeKit Using Homebridge?
- Install Homebridge - Install Homebridge on a Mac, PC or Raspberry Pi that stays on.
- Install Roomba Plugin - Search for
homebridge-roombain the Homebridge UI Plugins tab, or runsudo npm i -g @homebridge-plugins/homebridge-roomba - Get Roomba Credentials - Find the robot's IP address in the Roomba app under Wi-Fi settings, then run the plugin's
roomba:getpasswordcommand with that IP address from the Homebridge terminal, following the plugin README. - Configure Plugin - Enter the BLID, password and IP address in the plugin settings.
- Restart Homebridge - Restart Homebridge, then scan the Homebridge QR code in the Home app if you have not paired the bridge yet.
Find the detailed step-by-step guide to add a Roomba to Apple HomeKit using Homebridge.
What Homebridge Plugins Work for Roomba?
- @homebridge-plugins/homebridge-roomba (Recommended) - Verified by Homebridge. Supports start, stop, and dock on demand, battery and charging status, bin full alerts, and room-specific cleaning missions.
- Homebridge iRobot - Finds the robots on your iRobot account and supports room-by-room cleaning on models that offer it.
- Homebridge Roomba STV - An older plugin for the Roomba 900 series. Use it only as a fallback if the plugins above do not support your robot.
How to Add Roomba to HomeKit Using HOOBS?
- Connect HOOBS to your network
- First, you need to unbox your HOOBS in a box, then connect it to your networkFirst, you need to unbox your HOOBS in a box, then connect it to your network
- Next, power on your device. It takes a few seconds for the initial installation
- After that, you’ll be needed to open the Wi-Fi setting on your device (Phone or Laptop) and connect to the HOOBS network
- Once you connect to the HOOBS network, a popup window will appear. Select your WiFi name > Enter your password
- Finally, HOOBS is connected to the Wi-Fi network
- Open the HOOBS interface on your Browser
- Now, you need to open your browser and go to http://hoobs.local.(For the first-time user, the username and password will both be “admin”)
- If you want to change the username and password, you can change them later
- Install the Roomba Plugin for HOOBS
- Before installing the Roomba Plugin, you need to go on to hoobs.local from your browser
- Then, you’ll see the plugin tab on the left side of the screen, and click on that. Type “Roomba stv” in the search bar. (Roomba stv is a HOOBS-certified plugin)
- Click on the install button and it takes a few minutes to download the Roomba Apple Homekit Hoobs
- Obtain the IP address of the Roomba
- Before obtaining the IP address of the Roomba, go to your iRobot app. After that, navigate to the settings, Wi-Fi settings, and then Robot Wi-Fi details
- Check whether the IP address number format is correct(192.168.XX.XX)
- Configure the Roomba Stv Plugin
- Go to the HOOBS page and then click on the three dots. Next, you’ll see the terminal and click on that
- Type the following command on the terminal
- You may see some warning message and don’t press any key After it is finished running
- Make sure your Roomba is powered on and on HomeBase
- When the power is on, you can see a green light. (Press and hold the home button > When you hear a tone release it > Roomba will flash the Wi-Fi light)
- Once your Roomba flashes the Wi-Fi light, go to the HOOBS window. Then, click on any key
- After that, you’ll see a message and section showing the BLID and Password
- Go to the settings in your HOOBS window and then go to Roomba > click Add Accessory > Enter your Roomba name and then model number > Fill in the BLID, IP address, and password
- Next, you’ll need to enable these settings
cd /home/hoobs/.hoobs/node_modules/dorita980 && npm install && node ./bin/get password.js "192.168.x.x"
(Note: Enter your IP address instead of 192.168.XX.XX)
Auto-refresh - Yes
Keep-Alive - Yes
TTL cache - 30
Not only Roomba devices, you can add any devices to Apple HomeKit using the HOOBS solution.
What Features Do the Roomba Apps Offer?
Newer robots use the Roomba Home app, while older models use iRobot Home (Classic).
- Customizable maps
- Schedule your Robot to clean everywhere
- Clean without lifting a finger (Compatible with Google Assistant, and Alexa-enabled devices)
- Always getting smarter
Connecting Roomba to the iRobot Home App
- Setup your robot on the dock with the dock plugged
- Verify Bluetooth is turned ON and you are on the Correct Network
- Select “Add Robot” in the App
- Follow the app instructions to connect Roomba® to your Wi-Fi
- Setup complete
Popular Older Roomba Models
iRobot Roomba Combo j9+
A premium all-in-one robot vacuum and mop designed for fully automated cleaning.
- Vacuum + mop combo.
- AI obstacle detection.
- Self-emptying and self-refilling dock.
iRobot Roomba j9+
One of the smartest Roomba models with advanced navigation and powerful cleaning.
- Advanced AI object recognition.
- Smart mapping and room control.
- Strong suction performance.
iRobot Roomba S9+
A high-performance vacuum built for deep cleaning and pet hair removal.
- Powerful suction.
- D-shape design for corners.
- Self-emptying base.
iRobot Roomba i3+
An affordable self-emptying robot vacuum with reliable performance.
- Auto dirt disposal.
- Row-by-row navigation.
- Strong suction power.
iRobot Roomba Combo i5+
A versatile mid-range option that combines vacuuming and mopping.
- Vacuum + mop functionality.
- Smart mapping.
- Works well for everyday cleaning.
How to Troubleshoot Roomba HomeKit Integration?
- Check for Plugin/App Updates
- If you’re using a third-party plugin or app (e.g., Home Assistant, iRobot HOME app, or a custom integration), check if the developer has released an update to support the new Roomba firmware.
- Update the plugin or app to the latest version.
- Reconnect the Roomba:
- Sometimes, firmware updates can reset or disrupt the connection between the iRobot and the app or plugin.
- Check the Plugin/App Documentation
- Visit the official documentation or support page for the plugin or app you’re using. Look for any notes about compatibility with the latest Roomba firmware.
- If the plugin is community-developed (e.g., for Home Assistant), check the GitHub repository or forums for updates or workarounds.
- Roll Back the Firmware (If Possible)
- Some Roomba models allow you to roll back to a previous firmware version. Check iRobot’s support site or contact their customer service to see if this is an option.
- Note: Rolling back firmware may not always be possible or recommended.
- Use Official iRobot App
- If the third-party plugin is not working and no fix is available, consider using the official iRobot HOME app temporarily until the plugin is updated.
- Consider Alternative Integrations
- If the plugin is no longer maintained or compatible, look for alternative integrations or plugins that support your Roomba model and firmware version.
Conclusion
Roomba HomeKit integration is not native, but it is absolutely possible.With solutions like AddToHomeKit, ATH Bridge, HOOBS, and Homebridge, you can bring your Roomba into the Apple ecosystem and control it with Siri.
FAQs
Some models do. The Roomba Combo 10 Max, Plus 505 Combo, Max 705 Vac and Max 705 Combo join Apple Home through Matter. Older Wi-Fi Roombas such as the i, j, s and 900 series have no native support, so you add them with Homebridge, HOOBS or ATH Bridge.
Yes. Matter models are added from the Roomba app under Connected Services, then Apple Home. For other Wi-Fi Roombas, install the Roomba plugin on Homebridge, HOOBS or ATH Bridge, then scan the bridge QR code in the Home app to bring the robot in.
Yes. A Roomba added to Apple Home through Matter or a Homebridge bridge responds to Siri, for example "Hey Siri, start Roomba." Without Apple Home, you can still start cleaning jobs by voice with the Siri Shortcuts the Roomba app provides.
Yes. Once your Roomba is in Apple Home, you can start, stop or dock it by asking Siri on a HomePod or HomePod mini. The HomePod also acts as the home hub that Matter Roombas need for automations and control away from home.
Yes, on most Wi-Fi models. Imprint Smart Mapping arrived with the i and s series, and the newer Roomba Plus and Max models build maps with Clear View LiDAR. You create and edit room maps in the Roomba app, not in Apple Home.
Yes. Press the Clean button on the robot and it runs a full cleaning job without Wi-Fi. You need Wi-Fi for the app, schedules, Siri and Apple Home, because both Matter and Homebridge talk to the Roomba over your home network.
Update the robot first. In the Roomba Home app, tap My Home, the account icon, Connected Services and Apple Home, then follow the prompts. In iRobot Home (Classic), go to Smart Home, Connected Services and Apple Home. You need iOS 18.4 or later and a home hub.
Install @homebridge-plugins/homebridge-roomba from the Homebridge UI Plugins tab. Run the plugin's getpassword command with your Roomba's IP address to get its BLID and password, enter them in the plugin settings and restart Homebridge. ATH Bridge and HOOBS follow the same plugin steps.
Mostly, yes. A HomePod, HomePod mini or Apple TV on tvOS 18.4 or later is needed for automations and for controlling a Matter Roomba away from home. Roombas added through Homebridge or ATH Bridge also need a hub for remote access and automations.
