Discover the Future of Cleaning: An Inside Look at DJI’s Innovative Romo Robot Vacuum

It’s surprising to see DJI, known for drones, jumping into the robot vacuum game with the Romo. Unveiled first in China, this new cleaning gadget just hit Europe. What’s unique? Its transparent design lets you see the inner workings, even though it can’t take to the skies.

Before its launch, I caught a glimpse of the Romo at the IFA trade show. Unfortunately, I couldn’t watch it clean in action, but its design had some intriguing features. The Romo comes in three versions: the high-end Romo P, the mid-tier Romo A, and the more affordable Romo S. Prices start from around €1,299 (about $1,500) and go up to €1,899 (around $2,200) for the P model. They all share similar specs, but the P’s transparency makes it a conversation starter.

Now, just how effective is this vacuum? It boasts a powerful suction capability of 25,000Pa and an impressive 164ml water tank, allowing it to clean for longer without needing to refill. But what makes the Romo stand out is its navigation technology, a combination of dual fish-eye sensors and lidar—technology borrowed from DJI’s drone line. This should help the Romo detect thin objects, such as charging cables, as small as 2mm. This level of detail could be a game changer for avoiding common obstacles in a home.

Compared to other leading brands, like Roborock, the Romo has improved capabilities. While Roborock’s devices identify objects as small as 2cm, the Romo aims to do this with more precision, potentially improving its cleaning efficiency.

Interestingly, social media reactions around the Romo have been mixed. Users express excitement for its clear design but question whether it will look worn down after a few months of use. Transparency in tech is trendy, but will it stand the test of time?

Another unique feature of the Romo’s base station is that it can hold a deodorizing solution, meaning you can freshen up your floors with ease. The self-cleaning function is also enhanced, as the dock minimizes noise by 80%, making it less disruptive during operation.

The Romo’s U.S. launch date remains unknown, but as more details emerge, it looks like the robot vacuum market may be getting a strong competitor. While I look forward to testing the Romo, I remain cautious about its long-term practicality, especially with that transparent design.