At CES 2019, Ecovacs Robotics showed off its latest robot vacuum, the Deebot Ozmo 960. What differentiates the Ozmo 960 from some of the company’s other high-end cleaners is the implementation of AI that detects obstacles like cables, socks, and more. Once it finds these items, the robot avoids them entirely so it doesn’t clog itself and or damage the item in question.
Without a doubt, this is a feature that every robot vacuum should have, but don’t. Thankfully this type of innovation is bound to expand throughout the rest of the market since it is what consumers expect from automated devices.
AI Technology
Ecovacs refers to the new technology in the Ozmo 960 as AVIV (Artificial Intelligence and Visual Interpretation). Its latest vacuum combines AVIV with spatial recognition so it can automatically detect objects and clean around them.
This all happens automatically, meaning that if a user leaves an article of clothing on the floor, they can go about their day without the need to interact with the vacuum. Ecovacs claims that the technology is smart enough to automatically adapt to different homes and choose an efficient route that saves both time and energy.
Design
When it comes to looks, the Ozmo 960 is very similar to the model that precedes it. Features like the built-in handle, laser distance sensor, and top-loading dust bin are all positioned similarly. We are uncertain what the bottom of the unit looks like, but if it’s like the Ozmo 930, it will have a mop pad and interchangeable intake, along with side and main brushes.
“Our 2019 CES showcase features ECOVACS’ most comprehensive line-up of home-cleaning robots. Now, the smart way of cleaning is just a few finger taps or a voice command away”, said David Qian, Chief Executive Officer of Ecovacs Robotics, “ECOVACS is keeping floors clean, windows spotless, and the air in homes pure. Innovating since day one, we are continually dedicated to creating intelligent homes.”
Like all other Deebots, the Ozmo 960 will be compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Meaning that it can be controlled using something like a Google Home mini or my preferred Alexa device.
The fact that obstacle detection of this level is only now being implemented is one example of how the things we consider robots still have a long way to go. When an average consumer buys or is gifted a robot vacuum, they likely have little to no patience for failure (unless they really hate vacuuming).
Pricing & Availability
While the Ecovacs Deebot OZMO 960 is not quite ready to ship at this time, the company plans to dispatch it sometime later this year. Pricing is still uncertain, but will likely be priced similarly to the high-end devices in its current lineup.
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