“Tell Roomba” typically refers to using voice commands with your iRobot Roomba vacuum cleaner, leveraging smart home integrations with virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to control its operations.

This capability transforms a mundane chore into a hands-free, seamless experience, allowing you to initiate cleaning, pause a cycle, or send Roomba back to its dock with a simple spoken phrase, thereby enhancing convenience and integrating robotic cleaning effortlessly into your daily routine.

Here’s a comparison of some popular home automation devices that can interact with smart cleaning devices like Roomba, or offer similar convenience through voice commands:

Amazon Echo Dot 5th Gen

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Key Features: Compact smart speaker with improved audio, built-in temperature sensor, Eero Built-in for Wi-Fi mesh extension, voice control via Alexa.
Average Price: $49.99
Pros: Affordable, great sound for its size, integrates seamlessly with a vast array of smart home devices, Eero Built-in is a bonus for network stability.
Cons: Alexa’s responsiveness can occasionally be inconsistent, requires Amazon account.

Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen
- Key Features: Smart display with Google Assistant, Sleep Sensing optional, improved speaker, Quick Gestures for control without touch.
- Average Price: $99.99
- Pros: Excellent smart home control interface with visual feedback, good sound quality, Sleep Sensing offers insightful data if desired, intuitive touch and gesture controls.
- Cons: Sleep Sensing requires careful placement and privacy considerations, Google Assistant sometimes struggles with nuanced commands.
Apple HomePod Mini
- Key Features: Compact smart speaker with Siri, U1 chip for precise device finding, Intercom feature, rich 360-degree audio.
- Average Price: $99.00
- Pros: Exceptional audio quality for its size, seamless integration with Apple ecosystem, robust privacy features, Thread border router for Matter devices.
- Cons: Siri can be less versatile than Alexa or Google Assistant for general queries, primarily designed for Apple users.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium
- Key Features: Smart thermostat with built-in Alexa, air quality sensor, room sensors, advanced HVAC controls, compatible with major smart home platforms.
- Average Price: $249.99
- Pros: Integrates thermostat control with voice assistant, excellent energy-saving features, comprehensive air quality monitoring, works with Roomba via Alexa.
- Cons: Higher price point, voice assistant functionality is secondary to thermostat features.
Philips Hue Bridge
- Key Features: Central hub for Philips Hue smart lighting system, enables voice control and advanced automation, supports Zigbee.
- Average Price: $59.99
- Pros: Essential for a robust Philips Hue setup, unlocks full smart lighting potential, integrates with all major voice assistants for lighting control.
- Cons: Only for Philips Hue lights, an additional device to manage.
TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug Mini
- Key Features: Compact smart plug, Wi-Fi connectivity, schedule and timer functions, voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant.
- Average Price: $12.99 per plug
- Pros: Affordable, easy to set up, can turn any “dumb” appliance into a smart one, great for creating schedules and voice control for non-smart devices.
- Cons: Limited to on/off control for plugged-in devices, requires a consistent Wi-Fi signal.
Arlo Essential Video Doorbell Wire-Free
- Key Features: Wireless video doorbell, 180-degree viewing angle, two-way audio, motion detection, direct integration with Alexa and Google Assistant for announcements.
- Average Price: $199.99
- Pros: Easy installation, clear video quality, quick notifications, can be integrated into smart home routines, useful for security and monitoring.
- Cons: Requires a subscription plan for advanced features like cloud storage, battery life can vary with usage.

Table of Contents

The Power of Voice: How “Tell Roomba” Works

When we talk about “Tell Roomba,” we’re into the seamless integration of your robotic vacuum cleaner with the broader smart home ecosystem. This isn’t just about pressing a button.

It’s about leveraging voice commands to initiate, control, and manage your Roomba, freeing up your hands and streamlining your cleaning routine.

The core of this functionality lies in connecting your Roomba to popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

Understanding the Smart Home Ecosystem

The smart home ecosystem is a network of interconnected devices that can communicate with each other and be controlled remotely or automatically. Osaki Company

For Roomba, this means it becomes another node in your smart home, responding to commands given to a central hub, typically a smart speaker or display. This integration isn’t just about convenience.

It’s about building a more efficient and responsive living space.

Interoperability: The ability of different devices and systems to work together. This is crucial for “Tell Roomba” to function, as iRobot has developed integrations that allow their robots to understand commands from Amazon and Google’s voice platforms.
Centralized Control: Instead of using a dedicated app for each device, a smart home hub or voice assistant acts as a central control point, simplifying management.
Automation Potential: Beyond simple commands, this integration opens the door to complex routines. Imagine saying “Good morning” and your lights turn on, your coffee machine starts, and Roomba begins its cleaning cycle.

The Role of Voice Assistants

Voice assistants are the brains behind “Tell Roomba.” They interpret your spoken commands, process them, and then translate them into actionable instructions for your Roomba.

This involves sophisticated natural language processing NLP and a vast database of commands.

Amazon Alexa: One of the most popular voice assistants, found in Echo devices. Alexa has a dedicated “skill” for iRobot Roomba, which you enable through the Alexa app. Once enabled, you can say phrases like, “Alexa, tell Roomba to start cleaning.”
Google Assistant: Available on Google Home/Nest devices and Android phones. Similar to Alexa, you link your iRobot account through the Google Home app. Commands typically start with, “Hey Google, start Roomba.”
Siri Apple HomeKit: While Roomba doesn’t have direct Siri integration in the same way it does with Alexa or Google Assistant, you can often use Siri Shortcuts to create custom commands that trigger actions within the iRobot app. This is more of a workaround but offers some level of voice control for Apple enthusiasts.

Setting Up Your Roomba for Voice Commands: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting your Roomba to respond to your voice isn’t just magic. Cant Sleep Even When Tired

It’s a straightforward process of linking accounts and enabling skills.

Think of it like connecting two highly capable individuals so they can work together seamlessly.

This setup typically takes only a few minutes and unlocks a new level of convenience for your home cleaning.

Connecting Roomba to Your Wi-Fi Network

This is the foundational step for any smart Roomba functionality, including voice control.

Without a stable Wi-Fi connection, your Roomba is just a very expensive, silent disc. Ryobi Band Saw Review

Ensure your Wi-Fi is reliable and within range of your Roomba’s home base.

Download the iRobot Home App: This is your control center for your Roomba. Available on both iOS and Android, it guides you through the initial setup.
Power On Your Roomba: Make sure your Roomba is charged and on its home base.
Follow In-App Instructions: The iRobot Home app will walk you through connecting your Roomba to your home’s Wi-Fi network. This usually involves putting the Roomba into pairing mode and selecting your network.
Troubleshooting Tip: If your Roomba struggles to connect, try moving it closer to your Wi-Fi router during initial setup. Ensure you’re on a 2.4 GHz network, as many smart home devices are not compatible with 5 GHz Wi-Fi.

Enabling the iRobot Skill/Action on Your Voice Assistant

Once your Roomba is online and accessible via the iRobot Home app, the next crucial step is to enable the specific integration with your chosen voice assistant.

This is how the voice assistant “learns” about your Roomba.

For Amazon Alexa:
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- Open the Alexa app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Tap on “More” in the bottom right corner.
- Select “Skills & Games.”
- Search for “iRobot Home” or “Roomba.”
- Tap on the “Enable to Use” button.
- You’ll be prompted to link your iRobot account by signing in with your iRobot credentials. This step is critical as it authorizes Alexa to control your specific Roomba.
- Once linked, Alexa will discover your Roomba as a new device.
For Google Assistant:
- Open the Google Home app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Tap on the “+” icon in the top left corner to “Add.”
- Select “Set up device.”
- Choose “Works with Google.”
- Tap on the iRobot Home service and then select “Link account.”
- Similar to Alexa, you’ll be redirected to sign in with your iRobot account to grant Google Assistant control.
- After successful linking, your Roomba should appear as a controllable device within the Google Home app.

Renaming Your Roomba for Easier Voice Commands

While not strictly necessary, giving your Roomba a simple, memorable name can significantly improve the fluidity of your voice commands.

Avoid complex names or those that sound similar to other devices or commands.

Within the iRobot Home App: Many Roomba models allow you to rename your robot directly within the app’s settings.
Within the Voice Assistant App: You can also typically rename discovered devices within the Alexa app Devices > All Devices > Roomba or Google Home app Devices > Roomba settings.
Best Practices for Naming:
- Keep it short and unique: “Roomba,” “Robbie,” “Cleaner,” “Vac.”
- Avoid similar-sounding words: This prevents accidental activations.
- Consistency: Use the same name across all platforms if possible. For example, if you rename it “Dusty” in the iRobot app, make sure your voice assistant also recognizes it as “Dusty.”

Common Voice Commands for Your Roomba

Once your Roomba is set up and linked to your voice assistant, a world of hands-free cleaning control opens up.

The beauty lies in the simplicity and intuitiveness of the commands. Earn Money After Work

While specific phrasing might vary slightly between Alexa and Google Assistant, the core actions remain consistent.

Basic Cleaning Commands

These are the bread and butter of voice control for your Roomba.

They allow you to start, stop, and send your robot home with ease.

To start cleaning:
- Alexa: “Alexa, tell Roomba to start cleaning.” / “Alexa, ask Roomba to clean.” / “Alexa, start my robot.”
- Google Assistant: “Hey Google, start Roomba.” / “Hey Google, tell Roomba to clean.” / “Hey Google, turn on Roomba.”
- Why it’s useful: Perfect for impromptu cleaning sessions when you’re about to have guests, or just want a quick tidy-up without reaching for your phone.
To pause cleaning: Best Use Of Elliptical Machine
- Alexa: “Alexa, tell Roomba to pause.” / “Alexa, ask Roomba to pause cleaning.”
- Google Assistant: “Hey Google, pause Roomba.” / “Hey Google, tell Roomba to pause cleaning.”
- Why it’s useful: Ideal if you need to pick something up from the floor, answer the door, or simply want to quiet the robot for a moment.
To resume cleaning:
- Alexa: “Alexa, tell Roomba to resume cleaning.” / “Alexa, ask Roomba to continue.”
- Google Assistant: “Hey Google, resume Roomba.” / “Hey Google, tell Roomba to continue cleaning.”
- Why it’s useful: After a pause, you can quickly get your Roomba back to work without missing a beat.
To send Roomba back to its dock home base:
- Alexa: “Alexa, tell Roomba to go home.” / “Alexa, ask Roomba to return to the dock.”
- Google Assistant: “Hey Google, send Roomba home.” / “Hey Google, tell Roomba to go back to its base.”
- Why it’s useful: If you decide you’re done with cleaning, or need to charge the battery, a simple command sends it packing.

Advanced Roomba Commands Roomba i7/s9 and higher with Imprint Smart Mapping

For Roomba models equipped with Imprint Smart Mapping like the i7, s9, j7, and newer versions, voice commands become even more powerful, allowing for targeted cleaning of specific rooms or zones.

This is where the true intelligence of your Roomba shines through.

To clean a specific room: Brooklyn Wanderlust Memory Foam Reviews
- Alexa: “Alexa, tell Roomba to clean the kitchen.” / “Alexa, ask Roomba to vacuum the living room.”
- Google Assistant: “Hey Google, clean the kitchen with Roomba.” / “Hey Google, tell Roomba to vacuum the dining room.”
- Prerequisite: You must have successfully created and labeled your Imprint Smart Map within the iRobot Home app. The room names you use in your voice commands must match the names you’ve assigned in the app.
To clean multiple specific rooms:
- Alexa: “Alexa, tell Roomba to clean the kitchen and living room.”
- Google Assistant: “Hey Google, clean the bedroom and hallway with Roomba.”
- Why it’s useful: Perfect for quickly tidying up high-traffic areas without a full-house clean.
To clean a specific zone with certain models/settings:
- Some advanced models like the j7 series and updated software allow for cleaning specific “zones” within a room, like “under the dining table.” This requires you to have set up and named these zones in the iRobot Home app.
- Commands: “Alexa, tell Roomba to clean under the dining table.” Phrasing will vary slightly depending on how the zone is named and voice assistant integration.
- Why it’s useful: Hyper-targeted cleaning for spills or localized messes, saving battery and time.

Checking Roomba’s Status

Beyond control, you can also use voice commands to check on your Roomba’s current activity or battery level.

To check Roomba’s status:
- Alexa: “Alexa, ask Roomba what it’s doing.” / “Alexa, what’s Roomba doing?”
- Google Assistant: “Hey Google, what’s Roomba doing?” / “Hey Google, what is the status of Roomba?”
To check Roomba’s battery level:
- Alexa: “Alexa, ask Roomba its battery level.” / “Alexa, what’s Roomba’s battery at?”
- Google Assistant: “Hey Google, what’s Roomba’s battery level?”

Integrating Roomba with Smart Home Routines

This is where “Tell Roomba” truly shines beyond simple direct commands.

Smart home routines or automations allow you to string together multiple actions with a single trigger, making your home truly intelligent. Dewalt Amp Hours Explained

Imagine your Roomba starting its cleaning cycle automatically when you leave for work, or tidying up specific areas before you arrive home.

What are Smart Home Routines?

Smart home routines are sequences of actions that are triggered by a specific event, time, or voice command.

They’re like mini-programs that automate tasks within your connected home.

Both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant offer robust routine creation features, enabling you to build highly personalized automation flows.

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Triggers: These are what initiate a routine. Common triggers include:
- Voice command: A specific phrase you say e.g., “Alexa, good morning”.
- Time of day: A scheduled time e.g., 9:00 AM every weekday.
- Device state: When another smart device changes status e.g., your smart lock is locked.
- Location: When you leave or arrive at a specific location geofencing.
- Sensor data: A motion sensor detects movement, or a door sensor opens.
Actions: These are the tasks performed when a routine is triggered. Actions can involve turning lights on/off, adjusting thermostats, playing podcast, sending notifications, and, crucially, controlling your Roomba.

Creating Roomba Routines with Alexa

Alexa’s Routines feature is powerful and user-friendly.

You can combine Roomba actions with other smart home devices for a truly automated experience.

Open the Alexa App: Navigate to the “More” tab, then select “Routines.”
Create a New Routine: Tap the “+” icon to start a new routine.
Set the Trigger “When this happens”:
- Voice: “Alexa, I’m leaving.”
- Schedule: “Every weekday at 9:00 AM.”
- Smart Home: “When the front door is closed.”
Add Roomba Actions “Add action”:
- Select “Skills,” then “Your Skills.”
- Find the “iRobot Home” skill.
- Choose the Roomba action you want e.g., “Start cleaning,” “Go home,” “Clean ‘Living Room’”.
- You can also add other actions: “Turn off lights,” “Lock doors,” “Play podcast,” etc.
Save the Routine: Give your routine a descriptive name.

Example Alexa Routine:
- Trigger: “Alexa, start my workday.”
- Actions:
  1. “Turn off bedroom lights.”
  2. “Set thermostat to Away.”
  3. “Tell Roomba to clean the kitchen and living room.” Nail Gun Problems
  4. “Play news brief on Echo Dot.”

Creating Roomba Routines with Google Assistant

Google Assistant’s routines offer similar flexibility and integration.

Open the Google Home App: Tap on “Routines” on the main screen.
Create a New Routine: Tap the “+” icon.
Choose a Starter “How to start”:
- Voice command: “Hey Google, vacuum the house.”
- Time: “At 8:00 AM on Tuesdays and Fridays.”
- Sunrise/Sunset: “At sunset.”
Add Actions “Add action”:
- Select “Adjust smart home devices.”
- Find your Roomba and select the desired action e.g., “Start cleaning,” “Send home,” “Clean specific room”.
- You can also add other actions like “Adjust lights,” “Set media volume,” “Broadcast message.”
Save the Routine: Give it a meaningful name.

Example Google Assistant Routine:
- Trigger: “Hey Google, time for bed.”
  1. “Turn off all lights.”
  2. “Lock the front door.”
  3. “Set thermostat to 68 degrees.” Nautilus T618 Review
  4. “Tell Roomba to clean the downstairs.” Assuming “downstairs” is a defined cleaning zone/set of rooms.

Geofencing and Roomba

Some advanced routines can utilize geofencing, meaning the routine triggers based on your phone’s location. This is particularly useful for Roomba.

How it works: Your phone’s GPS is used to detect when you leave or arrive at a predefined area your home.
Practical application:
- Leaving Home: When your phone leaves your home’s geofence, a routine automatically starts your Roomba to clean while you’re away.
- Arriving Home: Conversely, you could set up a routine to send Roomba home to its dock before you arrive, ensuring a quiet entrance.
Setup: Geofencing is typically configured within the routine settings of the Alexa or Google Home app, where you define your home’s address and the radius for the geofence.

Troubleshooting Voice Commands for Roomba

Even in the world of smart homes, glitches can occur.

When your “Tell Roomba” command isn’t met with the familiar whirring of your robot, it can be frustrating.

However, most issues are easily resolved with a few systematic troubleshooting steps. Best Commercial Adjustable Weight Bench

Think of it as a quick diagnostic check before calling in the robot repair cavalry.

Common Issues and Solutions

A significant portion of voice command failures stem from connectivity problems or simple setup oversights. Addressing these first often resolves the issue.

“Roomba is offline” or “Roomba is unresponsive”:
- Check Wi-Fi connectivity: Is your home Wi-Fi network active and strong? Ensure your Roomba is connected to the internet. Look at the Wi-Fi indicator light on your Roomba – a solid white or green light usually indicates a good connection.
- Router Reboot: Sometimes a simple reboot of your Wi-Fi router can resolve temporary network glitches.
- Roomba Reboot: Try a soft reset of your Roomba. For most models, this involves holding down the CLEAN button for about 10 seconds until the lights go out, then releasing. The robot will reboot.
- App Status: Open the iRobot Home app. Does it show your Roomba as online and ready to clean? If not, the issue lies there first.
Voice assistant “doesn’t understand” or “can’t find Roomba”:
- Correct Naming: Double-check that the name you’re using for your Roomba in your voice command precisely matches the name set in the iRobot Home app and your voice assistant app Alexa or Google Home. For example, if you named it “Dusty,” say “Alexa, tell Dusty to clean,” not “Alexa, tell Roomba to clean.”
- Skill/Action Enabled: Verify that the iRobot Home skill Alexa or action Google Assistant is enabled and linked to your iRobot account in the respective voice assistant app. Sometimes, accounts can become unlinked, especially after password changes.
- Correct Phraseology: Are you using the correct and complete voice command phrases? Refer to the common commands section. Avoid overly complex or ambiguous phrasing.
- Assistant Listening: Ensure your smart speaker or display heard you correctly. Check its microphone. Try speaking louder or clearer, or moving closer to the device.
Roomba starts cleaning but doesn’t follow specific room commands:
- Imprint Smart Map: This functionality is only available on Roomba models with Imprint Smart Mapping i7, s9, j7, etc.. Ensure your robot has successfully created and learned your home’s layout.
- Room Naming: Your room names in the iRobot Home app must exactly match what you’re saying to your voice assistant. If you named a room “Living Room” in the app, saying “Alexa, clean the lounge” won’t work.
- Map Training: Ensure your map is finalized and not still “learning.” Sometimes, an incomplete map can lead to issues with specific room cleaning.

Advanced Troubleshooting Steps

If the basic checks don’t resolve your issue, you might need to dive a little deeper.

Relink iRobot Account: Go into the Alexa or Google Home app, disable the iRobot skill/action, and then re-enable it. This will prompt you to relink your iRobot account, which can often fix synchronization issues.
Delete and Re-discover Device: In your voice assistant app, try removing the Roomba device completely, then perform a “Discover Devices” Alexa or re-add it through the “Works with Google” section Google Assistant.
Check iRobot Home App for Updates: Ensure your iRobot Home app is updated to the latest version. Similarly, check for any firmware updates for your Roomba within the app.
Voice Assistant App Updates: Make sure your Alexa or Google Home app is also updated.
Network Interference: If you have many Wi-Fi devices, or a busy network, consider if network congestion might be causing issues. A stronger Wi-Fi signal or a mesh network could help.
iRobot Support: If all else fails, contact iRobot customer support. They have tools to diagnose more specific issues with your robot or its cloud connection. Provide them with as much detail as possible about the commands you’re using and the symptoms you’re experiencing.

Maximizing Your “Tell Roomba” Experience

Getting your Roomba to respond to voice commands is just the beginning.

To truly leverage this capability and integrate your robotic cleaner seamlessly into your life, consider these advanced tips and best practices. Things To Do To Help Me Fall Asleep

It’s about moving from basic control to intelligent automation that anticipates your needs.

Optimize Roomba’s Environment

A Roomba can only perform as well as its environment allows.

Voice commands can start it, but the robot still needs a clear path to do its job effectively.

Clear Clutter: Before running Roomba, especially if you’re using voice commands, quickly pick up cables, clothes, small toys, and anything that could tangle the brushes or obstruct the robot. A few seconds of pre-cleaning can save minutes of robot rescue.
Adequate Lighting: While Roomba uses various sensors, sufficient lighting especially for navigation can help it map and move more efficiently, reducing errors that might interrupt a cleaning cycle.
Define Keep Out Zones/Virtual Walls: For areas you don’t want Roomba to enter e.g., pet bowls, delicate furniture, specific rooms without smart mapping, use the iRobot Home app’s “Keep Out Zones” or physical Virtual Wall Barriers. This prevents the robot from getting stuck or causing issues.
Maintain Your Roomba: Regularly empty the dustbin, clean the brushes, and wipe sensors. A well-maintained Roomba is a more efficient and reliable Roomba, less prone to errors that might stop its cleaning cycle prematurely, requiring you to intervene.

Leverage Smart Mapping and Personalized Cleaning

For Roomba models with Imprint Smart Mapping, the real power of “Tell Roomba” comes from its ability to understand your home’s layout.

Name Your Rooms Wisely: In the iRobot Home app, give clear, simple names to your rooms e.g., “Kitchen,” “Living Room,” “Master Bedroom”. Avoid generic names or symbols.
Define Clean Zones: For specific high-traffic areas or spots prone to messes e.g., “Under Dining Table,” “Play Area”, create “Clean Zones” in the app. This allows you to command Roomba to clean only that specific spot.
Schedule Targeted Cleans: Instead of a full-house clean every time, use voice commands or routines to clean specific rooms or zones daily e.g., “Hey Google, clean the kitchen” after dinner. This saves battery life and reduces wear and tear.

Create Intelligent Routines and Schedules

This is where the magic of “Tell Roomba” truly shines, allowing for automation that makes your life easier. Your Suitcase

“Leaving Home” Routine:
- Trigger: When you say, “Alexa, I’m leaving.”
- Actions: Turn off lights, adjust thermostat to Away, and “Tell Roomba to start cleaning.”
“Guest Prep” Routine:
- Trigger: When you say, “Hey Google, prepare for guests.”
- Actions: Play upbeat podcast, dim living room lights, and “Tell Roomba to clean the living room and entryway.”
“Nightly Tidy” Routine:
- Trigger: Every night at 11 PM.
- Actions: Turn off all downstairs lights, lock front door, and “Tell Roomba to clean the downstairs.”
“Post-Meal Cleanup” Routine:
- Trigger: “Alexa, clean up dinner.”
- Actions: “Tell Roomba to clean the kitchen.”

Embrace Two-Way Communication

Don’t forget that “Tell Roomba” isn’t just about giving commands. it’s also about getting feedback.

Status Checks: Use commands like “Alexa, what’s Roomba doing?” or “Hey Google, what’s Roomba’s battery level?” to stay informed without opening the app.
Error Notifications: Ensure your voice assistant is configured to announce Roomba errors e.g., “Roomba is stuck,” “Dustbin full”. This allows for quick intervention.

By optimizing your Roomba’s environment, leveraging its smart mapping capabilities, crafting intelligent routines, and staying informed about its status, you can move beyond simple voice commands to a truly hands-free, efficient, and intelligent home cleaning experience.

The Future of “Tell Roomba” and Smart Cleaning

The journey of “Tell Roomba” has been one of increasing convenience, from basic voice commands to sophisticated room-specific cleaning.

But where is this technology headed? The future promises even more intelligence, autonomy, and seamless integration, transforming our homes into truly proactive environments.

Enhanced AI and Machine Learning

The core of “Tell Roomba” and smart cleaning lies in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Most Effective Way To Use Treadmill

As these technologies advance, so too will your robot’s capabilities.

Smarter Obstacle Avoidance: Current Roombas use sensors to avoid obstacles, but future models will leverage more advanced AI to better identify and differentiate objects e.g., distinguishing between a forgotten sock and pet waste, as the j7+ does. This will lead to fewer interventions and more reliable cleaning.
Predictive Cleaning: Imagine a Roomba that learns your habits and predicts when and where cleaning is needed. For example, if you consistently host Friday night dinners, your Roomba might proactively suggest or start cleaning the dining area on Friday afternoons.
Adaptive Cleaning: Robots will likely adapt their cleaning patterns and intensity based on factors like air quality data, pollen counts, or even calendar events e.g., deep clean before a party.
Better Multi-Floor Mapping: While some Roombas support multiple maps, the process could become more intuitive, perhaps even allowing a robot to identify which floor it’s on automatically.

Deeper Integration with Smart Home Ecosystems

The current “Tell Roomba” relies on direct integrations with Alexa and Google Assistant.

The future suggests a more interconnected web of smart devices.

Matter and Thread: These new smart home standards aim to improve interoperability between devices from different brands. A Roomba that fully supports Matter could communicate more directly with other smart home devices without needing a specific skill or action, potentially leading to more complex and reliable routines.
Contextual Awareness: Voice assistants will become more contextually aware. Instead of saying “Alexa, tell Roomba to clean the kitchen,” you might simply say, “Alexa, clean up,” and the system, knowing you just finished cooking, automatically directs Roomba to the kitchen.
Personalized Voice Profiles: Advanced voice recognition could allow different household members to have personalized cleaning preferences. “Clean my office” would trigger a specific Roomba schedule or intensity based on who said it.
Integration with Other Home Services: Imagine your Roomba communicating with your smart air purifier, prompting it to increase fan speed after a heavy cleaning cycle, or even with your smart blinds to ensure optimal lighting for navigation.

The Rise of the Robotic Home Manager

The concept of a single robot managing multiple tasks within the home is gaining traction.

While Roomba excels at vacuuming, the future might see robots that can also mop, sanitize, or even perform minor organizational tasks.

Multi-Function Robots: We’re already seeing two-in-one vacuum and mop robots. This trend will continue, with robots performing more diverse chores, controlled by a single voice command.
Interaction with Other Robots: A future where your Roomba communicates with a robotic lawnmower or pool cleaner is not far-fetched, all orchestrated through a central voice command system.
Proactive Maintenance and Alerts: Robots could self-diagnose issues more effectively and even order replacement parts like new brushes or filters automatically, alerting you via your voice assistant.

The evolution of “Tell Roomba” is part of a larger trend toward truly intelligent, autonomous homes. Voice commands are merely the interface.

The underlying technology is rapidly advancing to make our living spaces cleaner, smarter, and more effortless to manage.

Choosing Your Roomba: Which Model is Right for “Tell Roomba”?

While nearly all Wi-Fi connected Roomba models can respond to basic voice commands like “start cleaning” or “go home,” the more advanced “Tell Roomba” features – specifically those involving room-specific cleaning – require specific models.

Understanding the capabilities of different Roomba series is key to maximizing your voice-controlled cleaning experience.

Roomba Models with Imprint Smart Mapping

This is the critical feature for advanced voice commands.

Imprint Smart Mapping allows your Roomba to learn, map, and adapt to your home’s layout, enabling targeted cleaning.

iRobot Roomba i-Series e.g., i3, i7, i8:
- Voice Command Capability: Full voice command support. Can clean specific rooms/zones if the map is established and rooms are labeled.
- Key Features: Imprint Smart Mapping, powerful suction, some models with automatic dirt disposal Clean Base.
- Best For: Users who want intelligent room-by-room cleaning via voice commands and don’t mind a slightly older design than the s-series. The i7+ is a popular choice for its balance of features and cost.
iRobot Roomba s-Series e.g., s9:
- Voice Command Capability: Full voice command support, including highly precise room and zone cleaning.
- Key Features: iRobot’s most powerful suction, Imprint Smart Mapping, D-shaped design for corner cleaning, some models with automatic dirt disposal.
- Best For: Users who demand the absolute best cleaning performance and precision room targeting via voice. The s9+ is a premium option.
iRobot Roomba j-Series e.g., j5, j7, j8:
- Voice Command Capability: Full voice command support, including advanced object avoidance and targeted zone cleaning e.g., cleaning around pet bowls.
- Key Features: PrecisionVision Navigation for advanced obstacle avoidance especially pet waste, Imprint Smart Mapping, some models with automatic dirt disposal.
- Best For: Pet owners, those with frequently changing floor layouts, or anyone who wants the most advanced obstacle avoidance combined with intelligent voice-controlled room cleaning. The j7+ is a standout in this series.
iRobot Roomba Combo Series e.g., j7+ Combo:
- Voice Command Capability: Full voice command support, including vacuuming and mopping specific areas/rooms.
- Key Features: Combines vacuuming and mopping capabilities, PrecisionVision Navigation, Imprint Smart Mapping.
- Best For: Users who want a single robot for both vacuuming and mopping, controllable by voice for specific areas.

Roomba Models Without Imprint Smart Mapping

Older or more basic Roomba models connect to Wi-Fi and can be controlled via the iRobot Home app and basic voice commands, but they lack the ability to understand and clean specific rooms.

Roomba e-Series e.g., e5, e6:
- Voice Command Capability: Basic voice commands “start cleaning,” “go home,” “pause”. Does NOT support room-specific cleaning via voice.
- Key Features: Good suction for its price, washable dustbin, AeroForce 3-Stage Cleaning System.
- Best For: Budget-conscious users who want the convenience of voice-controlled starting and stopping but don’t need room-by-room control.
Roomba 600/800 series Wi-Fi enabled models:
- Key Features: Entry-level or mid-range vacuuming, some with AeroForce cleaning system.
- Best For: Those looking for the most basic voice-controlled robotic vacuum at an entry-level price.

Key Considerations When Choosing for Voice Commands

Your Budget: More advanced Roomba models with mapping capabilities are generally more expensive.
Your Home Layout: If you have a simple, open floor plan and just want the whole house cleaned, a non-mapping Roomba might suffice for basic voice commands. However, for multi-room homes or if you frequently want to clean specific areas, a mapping Roomba is essential.
Desired Level of Control: Do you just want to say “start cleaning,” or do you want to be able to say “clean the kitchen only” or “clean under the dining table”? This dictates whether you need a mapping model.
Pet Ownership: If you have pets, the j-Series’ advanced obstacle avoidance makes it a safer and more reliable choice for voice-triggered cleaning without unexpected surprises.

Ultimately, to truly unlock the “Tell Roomba” experience, especially for targeted cleaning, invest in a Roomba model that features Imprint Smart Mapping.

This technology is the backbone of intelligent, voice-controlled home cleaning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Tell Roomba” mean?

“Tell Roomba” refers to using voice commands with your iRobot Roomba vacuum cleaner, typically through a smart assistant like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, to control its functions hands-free.

Which Roomba models work with voice commands?

All Wi-Fi connected Roomba models can respond to basic voice commands start, stop, go home. Advanced commands for specific room or zone cleaning require Roomba models with Imprint Smart Mapping i-Series, s-Series, j-Series, Combo models.

Do I need a special device to “Tell Roomba”?

Yes, you need a smart speaker or smart display with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant built-in e.g., Amazon Echo, Google Nest Hub.

How do I connect Roomba to Alexa?

Open the Alexa app, go to “Skills & Games,” search for “iRobot Home,” enable the skill, and then link your iRobot account by signing in.

How do I connect Roomba to Google Assistant?

Open the Google Home app, tap “+”, select “Set up device,” then “Works with Google,” search for “iRobot Home,” and link your iRobot account.

Can I tell Roomba to clean a specific room?

Yes, if you have a Roomba model with Imprint Smart Mapping i-Series, s-Series, j-Series and have named your rooms in the iRobot Home app, you can use voice commands like “Alexa, tell Roomba to clean the kitchen.”

Why isn’t my Roomba responding to voice commands?

Check your Roomba’s Wi-Fi connection, ensure the iRobot skill/action is enabled and linked in your voice assistant app, verify the Roomba’s name matches, and use the correct command phrasing.

Can I pause Roomba with a voice command?

Yes, you can say “Alexa, tell Roomba to pause” or “Hey Google, pause Roomba.”

Can I send Roomba back to its base with a voice command?

Yes, you can say “Alexa, tell Roomba to go home” or “Hey Google, send Roomba home.”

Can I check Roomba’s battery level with voice?

Yes, you can ask “Alexa, ask Roomba its battery level” or “Hey Google, what’s Roomba’s battery at?”

Can I set up a routine for Roomba with voice commands?

Yes, both Alexa and Google Assistant allow you to create custom routines where a single voice command or other trigger can include starting your Roomba’s cleaning cycle.

What are some example voice commands for Roomba?

“Alexa, start Roomba.” “Hey Google, clean the living room with Roomba.” “Alexa, tell Roomba to go home.” “Hey Google, what’s Roomba doing?”

Is Roomba compatible with Apple HomeKit?

Roomba does not have direct native integration with Apple HomeKit or Siri in the same way it does with Alexa and Google Assistant.

However, you can often use Siri Shortcuts to create custom commands that trigger actions within the iRobot app.

Do I need the iRobot Home app for voice control?

Yes, the iRobot Home app is essential for the initial setup, Wi-Fi connection, mapping for advanced models, and ensuring your Roomba is online for voice commands to work.

What if my Roomba gets stuck during a voice-initiated clean?

Your Roomba will typically send a notification to the iRobot Home app and/or your voice assistant app.

You will need to physically intervene to resolve the issue.

Can I tell Roomba to clean multiple rooms at once?

Yes, with Imprint Smart Mapping models and correctly named rooms, you can often say “Alexa, tell Roomba to clean the kitchen and living room.”

Does “Tell Roomba” use my data?

Yes, using voice commands involves your voice assistant sending data to iRobot’s cloud services to control your robot.

IRobot and the voice assistant providers have privacy policies that explain how your data is handled.

Can I schedule Roomba cleaning with voice?

While you can’t typically schedule a recurring clean directly with a single voice command, you can incorporate Roomba cleaning into a routine triggered by a specific time or day within the Alexa or Google Home app.

How do I rename my Roomba for easier voice commands?

You can usually rename your Roomba within the iRobot Home app’s settings, and then ensure that name is recognized or manually updated in your Alexa or Google Home app’s device list.

What is Imprint Smart Mapping and why is it important for “Tell Roomba”?

Imprint Smart Mapping is iRobot’s technology that allows certain Roomba models to learn, map, and remember the layout of your home.

It’s crucial for voice commands that target specific rooms or zones, as the robot needs to understand your home’s spatial layout.

Can Roomba vacuum and mop with voice commands?

Yes, if you have a Roomba Combo model e.g., j7+ Combo, you can use voice commands to initiate vacuuming and mopping functions, potentially even in specific rooms or zones, depending on the model’s capabilities and mapping.

Are there different voice commands for different Roomba models?

Basic commands are universal for Wi-Fi enabled Roombas.

Advanced commands like room-specific cleaning are only available for models with Imprint Smart Mapping i-Series, s-Series, j-Series.

What happens if I say a command Roomba doesn’t understand?

Your voice assistant will likely respond with something like “I didn’t understand that,” or “Roomba is not responding to that command.” You’ll need to rephrase or use a recognized command.

Can I stop Roomba cleaning mid-cycle with voice?

Yes, you can pause it and then send it home with separate commands if you wish to stop it entirely.

Does the Roomba need to be on its charging base to receive voice commands?

No, your Roomba just needs to be powered on and connected to Wi-Fi.

It will typically return to its base after completing a cleaning cycle.

What if my Roomba account gets unlinked from Alexa/Google?

You’ll need to go into the Alexa or Google Home app, disable the iRobot skill/action, and then re-enable it, which will prompt you to relink your iRobot account.

Can I control multiple Roombas with voice commands?

Yes, if you have multiple Wi-Fi connected Roombas and they are all linked to your iRobot account and subsequently discovered by your voice assistant, you can control them individually by name e.g., “Alexa, tell Roomba Upstairs to clean the bedroom,” “Hey Google, send Basement Bot home”.

Is there a monthly fee for “Tell Roomba” features?

No, the ability to use voice commands with your Roomba through Alexa or Google Assistant does not typically incur an additional monthly fee beyond any existing smart assistant subscriptions you might have e.g., Amazon Prime for other Alexa features.

Can I check Roomba’s cleaning history with voice?

No, checking detailed cleaning history, maps, or specific reports typically requires opening the iRobot Home app.

Voice commands are primarily for immediate control and status checks.

How reliable are “Tell Roomba” voice commands?

Generally, they are very reliable when setup correctly.

Most issues arise from Wi-Fi connectivity problems, incorrect command phrasing, or unlinked accounts.

Ensuring a strong Wi-Fi signal and proper setup will lead to a smooth experience.

Tell Roomba