If companies such as Dyson and Shark can adeptly branch out into hair care, why wouldn’t a drone manufacturer emerge as a strong contender against Roomba or Roborock? DJI raises this question with the forthcoming debut of its inaugural robot vacuum, the DJI Romo.
The Romo was merely a speculation until a teaser video appeared on X on July 23. A credible source claimed to have seen the announcement from the official Chinese DJI Romo account, pointing to August 6, 2025, as the release date for China. Information regarding releases in other regions is still unavailable, and tariffs may complicate the U.S. launch. However, numerous robot vacuum brands based in China, such as Roborock, Ecovacs, and Dreame, generally introduce their flagship models to the American market swiftly, leaving hope for the Romo’s U.S. arrival.
From a navigation standpoint, there is an evident correlation between drones and robot vacuums. A lot of robot vacuums utilize LiDAR technology to generate in-app maps for cleaning designated rooms or areas upon request. Likewise, several DJI drones employ LiDAR to produce intricate 3D aerial maps. It’s possible that DJI will enhance small obstacle avoidance, considering no robot vacuum has achieved an impeccable record with floor chargers and cords.
No specific information regarding the Romo’s cleaning capabilities has been disclosed yet. However, the teaser video indicates that the Romo features a self-emptying dock, though it remains uncertain if the dock also accommodates water tanks for mopping. The transparent design of the Romo dock appears to reveal several compartments, not solely a dust bin or bag. Considering DJI’s history of premium pricing for its drones, wireless microphones, and gimbal cameras, it is probable that DJI’s first robot vacuum will also embrace a premium price tag. Expectations include features such as mopping, self-cleaning, and drying pads.
Entering the market later, DJI possesses insights into where other major brands have stumbled. Perhaps the failure of the Dyson 360 Vis Nav will become an opportunity for the DJI Romo.
The price for the DJI Romo is still undetermined. As DJI drones are positioned in the high-end market, a similar expectation applies to the DJI robot vacuum. It seems improbable that it will be priced below $1,000, and tariffs may elevate the price even further.
While it is thrilling to contemplate how a drone brand could revolutionize the robot vacuum sector, a delicate balance exists between innovation and overcomplication, as demonstrated by the Roborock Saros Z70 and its erratic robotic arm. One can only hope that DJI will not render the Romo excessively advanced to be suitable for the typical household.