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Robot Vacuum Learns to Climb Stairs
6 Jan
Summary
- Roborock unveiled the Saros Rover, a robot vacuum with articulating legs.
- The device can fluidly climb and clean full staircases, a decade-long question answered.
- While impressive, the stair-climbing functionality is slow and still in development.
At CES 2026, Roborock introduced the Saros Rover, a groundbreaking robot vacuum designed with articulating legs that enable it to navigate and clean entire staircases. This development addresses a persistent question in robotic cleaning technology, allowing for multi-floor cleaning and individual step maintenance. The Rover demonstrated fluid, flexible movement, akin to a frog, with independent leg control for seamless transitions on slopes and stairs.
During a live demonstration, the Saros Rover exhibited its ability to climb stairs by lifting its body with its legs, lowering onto each step, and pivoting to vacuum. Although the ascent was slow, taking nearly three minutes for five stairs, and showed moments of instability, the device successfully navigated the incline. It also proved capable of small hops, suggesting it can overcome multi-level room thresholds.
Roborock anticipates the Rover will handle various staircase types, including curved and carpeted ones, potentially granting it access to every home area. However, there are no specific release dates or detailed specifications available, with the company indicating a cautious development approach following previous product reviews. The Rover currently functions solely as a vacuum, with mopping capabilities still under consideration.
