Domestic robots adopt arms and legs to navigate complex environments

Domestic robotics is entering a new phase as manufacturers integrate artificial intelligence with physical manipulation tools, such as articulated arms and legs, to move beyond simple obstacle detection toward active environmental interaction.

At recent technology fairs like IFA Berlin, companies have demonstrated robots capable of modifying their surroundings. For example, Roborock’s Saros Z70 and Dreame’s Cyber10 Ultra utilize robotic arms to identify and move objects like cables or toys that would otherwise obstruct cleaning. This allows devices to complete tasks without human intervention.

Additionally, Roborock has introduced the Saros Rover, a robot designed to overcome the limitations of traditional flat-chassis vacuums. The Saros Rover utilizes an AI-assisted wheel-and-leg architecture, featuring two articulated limbs with wheels that can adjust height and position independently. This allows the device to climb stairs and navigate uneven terrain or ramps, cleaning individual steps as it moves between floors.