The Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai Robot has made its debut as Dyson’s inaugural robot that combines vacuuming and mopping functionalities. Unveiled at the IFA tech fair in Berlin, this model serves as a successor to the 360 VisNav robot vacuum that was introduced earlier this year. Sporting a new circular design, the Spot+Scrub features a self-cleaning roller mop, advanced lidar navigation, and Dyson’s very first multifunctional dock. The use of “AI” in its title, reflecting 2025’s trend, adds a contemporary touch.
During a hands-on session with the Spot+Scrub, initial impressions were rather underwhelming. Dyson has long set a high bar with its traditional vacuum cleaners, but its robotic offerings have struggled to match that standard. Although I did not get a chance to test its stain-targeting feature firsthand, my experience did not solidify the belief that Dyson has finally mastered the art of robotic cleaning.
One of the standout features is the AI-powered stain detection technology that aims to tackle a significant drawback of current robot mops: their inferior performance compared to traditional mopping methods. When stains are detected by the Spot+Scrub’s onboard cameras, it utilizes green lasers to help pinpoint and assess the type of stain, adjusting its cleaning method as necessary until the area is completely clean.
Competitors like Narwal, iRobot, and Ecovacs have also introduced similar detection systems, each showing varying degrees of effectiveness based on prior tests. Nevertheless, Dyson expresses confidence in the superiority of the Spot+Scrub’s capabilities.
James Dyson, the company’s founder, shared insights during the unveiling, stating his disappointment in existing robot mops that often leave residues behind. “A significant amount of stain remains on the floors,” he commented. “That’s why our product is enhanced — we can see the stain and continue to address it until it’s completely removed.”
Beyond stain detection, The Spot+Scrub can also recognize objects such as socks and cables, utilizing updated lidar technology for navigation — a pivot from the previous vision-based system used in its predecessor, the VisNav.
Design-wise, the Spot+Scrub is round, differing from the squared shape of the VisNav. It offers impressive suction power of 18,000 Pa and features a soft, long microfiber roller mop designed for effective wet cleaning. This mop extends to clean along edges, partnered with a robust rubber bristle brush that tackles dry debris. To protect carpets, the roller mop lifts automatically upon detection but lacks the protective covering seen in new mopping bots.
Pricing has yet to be disclosed, but Dyson plans to release the Spot+Scrub in China by the end of the year, with a U.S. launch anticipated in 2026.
The initial impression of the Spot+Scrub in Dyson’s Berlin store was that of its considerable size, standing about a third larger than its predecessor. The multifunction dock it comes with is notably bulky, which is partly due to the sophisticated roller mop mechanism it incorporates, a feature that is becoming increasingly common in the robot vacuum market.
Other brands, including Ecovacs and Dreame, have also embraced roller mop designs. These models allow for on-the-go cleaning rather than requiring a return to base for mop maintenance, necessitating a more complex internal structure, which may explain the larger sizes.
The multifunction dock for the Spot+Scrub is meant to automate the cleaning process, featuring functionalities like emptying the dustbin, drying the mop, and refilling its water tanks. However, its design does not significantly deviate from that of rival products, a factor that may disappoint some users looking for distinctive features.
The dock is equipped with a 2-liter bagless dust container, removing the necessity for additional bags typically included with auto-empty systems. While this could lead to minor dust spills upon disposal, the absence of bags is a significant convenience. The Spot+Scrub is compatible with the updated MyDyson app, which allows users to monitor real-time cleaning status and customize cleaning methods directly from their devices.
Users can track the robot’s identified stains through the app, which also will support integration with smart home systems such as Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home in the future.
Despite Dyson’s long history of innovation in vacuum technology, its robot vacuums have yet to achieve a stellar reputation. Although the Spot+Scrub offers interesting advancements, it feels incremental rather than revolutionary. If the stain detection truly operates effectively and the navigation is reliable, then it may change perceptions. Only further testing will reveal its true capabilities.
Photos and video by Jennifer Pattison Tuohy / Technology News
