Introduction
DJI, a company primarily known for its drones and camera technology, has entered the robot vacuum market with the launch of the DJI Romo series. Announced in Europe after its initial release in China, the Romo combines vacuuming and mopping capabilities while featuring a distinctive transparent design. Although it does not possess flying capabilities, the Romo showcases DJI's navigation technology expertise, aimed at enhancing home cleaning efficiency.
Product Overview
The Romo series consists of three models: the top-tier Romo P, the mid-range Romo A, and the more economical Romo S. The Romo P, which retails at €1,899 (approximately $2,200), boasts a fully transparent design. The Romo A, priced at €1,599 (around $1,700), features a transparent robot paired with an opaque base, while the Romo S, available for €1,299 (about $1,500), is entirely white. All models are currently available for purchase through DJI’s online store.
Specifications and Design Features
While the three models share similar specifications, the Romo P's transparent dock provides an aesthetic appeal that may justify its higher price. However, there are concerns regarding the practical implications of a transparent design over time, particularly in terms of cleanliness and maintenance. The Romo's design elements include a dual-spinning mop pad system and a roller brush configuration that effectively collects hair, which is also found in competitor products like Roborock's Qrevo Curv series.
Advanced Navigation Technology
DJI has integrated advanced navigation features into the Romo, utilizing a combination of dual fish-eye vision sensors and solid-state lidar technology. This hybrid navigation system allows for precise obstacle detection, reportedly able to identify objects as thin as 2mm, such as charging cables or playing cards. This capability is a notable improvement over existing systems, which typically recognize larger objects. The Romo's enhanced navigation is expected to reduce the likelihood of the vacuum becoming obstructed by common household items.
Self-Cleaning Base Station
The self-cleaning base station of the Romo series is equipped with innovative features, including a slot for a deodorizing solution to freshen floors after cleaning. Additionally, the base station employs a high-pressure jet system for cleaning mop pads and a drying mechanism using hot air. Notably, the design incorporates sound suppression technology, significantly reducing noise levels during operation, which is a common drawback in self-emptying vacuum systems.
Future Prospects
While there is currently no announced launch date for the Romo in the United States, DJI plans to conduct further testing of the European models. A comprehensive review is anticipated, which may provide deeper insights into the performance and practicality of the Romo series in everyday use.
Conclusion
The introduction of the DJI Romo robot vacuum marks a significant expansion for the brand into the smart home technology sector. With its unique transparent design and advanced navigation capabilities, the Romo series aims to compete in a crowded market dominated by established players. As consumers increasingly seek innovative solutions for home cleaning, the Romo's success will depend on its performance and user satisfaction over time, particularly as it faces scrutiny regarding its high price point relative to competitors.