Using Artificial Intelligence in a Roomba Explained

In today’s world, artificial intelligence (AI) is growing in popularity. When you think of AI, you might imagine robots or self-driving cars, but the scope of this technology is much wider. Your Roomba might use AI to some degree. Keep reading to understand more about how AI works and whether your vacuum has this feature.

How Does AI Work?

Artificial intelligence is a broad term that describes any machine or computer program that mimics human behavior. In other words, AI is used to make machines seem more intelligent, like people.

AI can be used in a wide variety of ways in modern-day life, including in robotics, virtual assistants, and machine learning. With AI, robots and other machines can perform complex tasks that would be difficult or dangerous for humans to do.

What is AI in the context of home robotics?

Home robotics is the use of artificial intelligence in modern-day appliances, gadgets, and other devices that improve the way we live. AI can be used in robotics for a variety of purposes, including making robots more autonomous, improving their functionality, and making them more intuitive for humans to use.

When people talk about AI in the context of home robotics, they are typically referring to machine learning. This is a form of AI that uses computer algorithms to improve and change over time. The computer is programmed to learn from its data, without human intervention.

What Does Your Roomba Use Artificial Intelligence For?

The first Roomba was introduced in 2002, and it was capable of cleaning carpets. Over the years, the vacuum has evolved significantly. Today’s Roombas are designed with AI features, such as the ability to navigate your home and the capability to identify dirty spots.

Some vacuums also have Amazon Alexa and Google Home compatibility, allowing you to use your voice to control the device. If your vacuum is designed to clean both carpet and hard floors, then it is most likely not using AI.

However, if your vacuum is designed for only hard floors, then it may be using AI for navigation and identifying dirty spots. Unfortunately, there are no specific brands that use AI at this time. Instead, the technology is being developed and implemented by the manufacturers.

Is Your Roomba Using Artificial Intelligence?

Unfortunately, it is difficult to tell whether your Roomba is using AI. Since the technology is being implemented as the vacuum is being manufactured, you won’t be able to see it in action. That said, you can still determine whether your vacuum is using AI based on its features. If your vacuum has the following features, then it is likely using AI:

– Automated Cleaning.

– Navigation.

– Ability to Identify Vacuuming Areas.

My experience with AI and Roomba

I own a Roomba s9 which I’m very happy with. It is on the expensive side, but it has newer updates which include some very capable AI and ML (machine learning).

First of all, I want to clarify the difference between AI and ML, and the three very distinct levels of AI. I work with Artificial Intelligence and Machine learning on a daily basis, so in my experience I know it’s a good idea to know the differences.

AI is programming where you mimic the thinking of a human. For example, a simple calculator is also AI. You program a calculator to calculate results as a human would.

ML is how you teach the AI (computer) to do certain tasks, also like calculating.

The three levels of AI go as follows:

1. ANI – Artificial Narrow Intelligence.
   This is the step where humans are now. This is also called the infant stage, so the ability to make AI that is as smart as an infant. Roombas and other robot vacuums may only have a fraction of this capability.
2. AGI – Artificial General Intelligence.
   When we reach general intelligence, the AI can teach itself stuff, it’s supposed to be as good or better than a human at everything. The computer should be able to think abstractly, critical, logical, and maybe emotionally. The step from AGI to ASI may be frighteningly short, that is what most scientists fear. Imagine that an AI can teach itself everything in the world all at the same time in a matter of seconds or minutes. It will be far superior to humans in a matter of hours.
3. ASI – Artificial Super Intelligence.
   When AI surpasses humans on every level, we call it ASI. This step is hard to imagine. It’ll most likely think of us like monkeys or even ants. Who knows.

Luckily I don’t think Roombas will reach ASI any time soon…

When talking about AI and ML in this way, it’s almost silly to use these terms in what Roombas can do. It’s on a level so basic it almost doesn’t count. But what Roombas actually can do and has used ML for, is the recognition of objects to keep from hitting them or getting stuck.

So in my experience, it’ll be a bit much to call a Roomba an AI in general terms, but we cannot deny that they are using the technology to make it better. It’s still more related to a calculator than an object aware of its surroundings.

Which Brands are Currently Using AI in Their Robotics?

The following brands currently use the technology associated with AI in one or more of their robotics: iRobot, Samsung, LG, and Ecovacs. iRobot offers several models of robotic vacuums and mops, including the Roomba i9+ model.

This device uses both AI for navigation and virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa for easy control. The Roomba i9+ model also uses machine learning algorithms that help it learn and improve over time. Samsung also offers a robotic vacuum that uses AI for navigation.

Beyond navigation, this device uses AI to identify areas of high and low suction. LG offers a robotic vacuum that uses AI for navigation and suction control. This device also uses machine learning algorithms to learn and improve over time.

Ecovacs offers several robotic vacuums that use AI for navigation and suction control. These devices also use machine learning algorithms.

Should You Buy a Robot Vacuum With AI?

If you are looking to purchase a robot vacuum, then you may want to consider one that uses AI for navigation and suction control. These devices are designed to work efficiently and effectively. In addition, these vacuums are capable of adapting to your home and cleaning areas that are hard to reach.

In general, these vacuums are more expensive than their non-AI counterparts. That said, they also offer a variety of advantages, including the ability to work independently and for longer periods. In addition, these vacuums are often equipped with more advanced sensors and software that allow them to navigate your home more effectively.

Final Words

Artificial intelligence is growing in popularity. From virtual assistants to automated appliances, many devices now use AI to improve their functionality. In the context of robotics, AI is used to make machines more autonomous and intuitive.

With this technology, robots can learn and adapt over time. Moreover, they are also capable of working more efficiently. If you are looking to purchase a robot vacuum, then you may want to consider one that uses AI. These vacuums are designed to work effectively and efficiently.