Robot Vacuums Raise Major Privacy Concerns Over Cameras and Data

Wi-Fi robot vacuums with cameras and GPS collect home maps and usage data that can leak to the cloud. A software engineer accessed audio, maps and live camera feeds from about 7,000 DJI Romo vacuums using a PS5 controller and an AI coding assistant. The FCC has banned foreign-made robot vacuums, while iRobot was acquired by Shenzhen Picea Robotics after bankruptcy.

• Engineer accessed data from about 7,000 DJI Romo vacuums via a PS5 controller
• iRobot was acquired by Shenzhen Picea Robotics after 2025 bankruptcy
• FCC banned foreign-made robot vacuums and other robotic devices
• Matic centers its brand on privacy, with vacuums starting at $1,495