In the spirit of pushing boundaries, Roborock has perhaps pushed the envelope further than ever before. How? Well, it’s certainly not just by introducing the Roborock S8 Max Series smart vacuums, consisting of two models: S8 MaxV Ultra and S8 Max Ultra. There’s more to it.
Although these two powerful and intelligent smart vacuums include a host of new innovative features, there’s something else that’s bigger and more awe-inspiring. Keeping up with that idea of “cleaning beyond limits,” the S8 series has also achieved something spectacular related to space. Yes, outer space. In August 2024, the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra was launched into the upper stratosphere, becoming the first-ever smart vacuum in outer space. Just imagine it floating, weightlessly, high above the planet, maybe even cleaning some debris as it goes.
It gives a whole new meaning to “out of this world,” at least when it comes to smart vacuums.
What about the space trip?
Spearheaded by Sent Into Space (SIS), the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra traveled on a hydrogen balloon — taller than the White House at nearly 25 meters in diameter — into the upper stratosphere, about 110,000 feet above Earth. The entire flight took about two and a half hours, with an hour and a half dedicated to the flight up to space, and an hour for returning to Earth.
Roborock’s idea for sending the vacuum into space was to expose it to extreme conditions, sending it to new heights — figuratively. Launching it into the atmosphere pushes the boundaries of what a vacuum can do while showcasing its unparalleled durability and performance. This is one of the harshest environments known to man and the vacuum returned safely. Even in the dark, cold vastness of space, the vacuum successfully activated features like the DuoRoller side brush and “Hello Rocky” voice assistant.
This concept emerged as part of Roborock’s commitment to innovatively showcasing brand engineering excellence.
“Witnessing our vacuum soar 120,000 feet above Earth was an extraordinary moment, symbolizing how far Roborock has come in redefining the smart home experience. The vacuum faced temperatures plummeting below -60°C — conditions that would typically incapacitate inferior batteries and freeze motors.”
Roborock says the mission has “unequivocally proven that our vacuum’s quality and durability can withstand the extreme cold of Near Space, underscoring our dedication to excellence.” And yes, the vacuum is still fully functional after returning to Earth. Impressive, indeed.
Preparing for space vacuuming
While prepping for the space flight, a key decision the Roborock team had to make was whether to go with a top-mount or plinth-mount design for the rig. Each option presented unique challenges.
Roborock says that achieving this milestone is “inspiring people to think bigger, dream bolder, and go beyond limits.” The campaign and space flight is not only a testament to the product’s capabilities but also the true capabilities of everyone. What can we achieve when we set our minds to it? How do we push the boundaries in our own lives?
While this skybreaking feat marks the first time a smart robot vacuum has been sent into space, it’s a marvel of modern engineering, showing just what today’s products are capable of, or more importantly what Roborock’s smart home gear can truly do.
Introducing the S8 Max Series smart vacuums from Roborock
Back on Earth. You’ll probably recognize, like us, that the smart vacuum market is pretty saturated these days. So, anything new and “innovative” needs to bring some pretty impressive features to the table to stand out. Needless to say, the Roborock S8 Max Series definitely achieves that, even without all the outer space hubbub.
They offer deep cleaning with powerful suction, effective edge cleaning for baseboards and corners, mopping capabilities, and complete self-maintenance, primarily thanks to the advanced docking stations — which are included. You can also optionally connect the docks to drainage systems or water sources, ensuring they can both replenish and properly drain dirty water. The maintenance extends to cleaning solution dispensing, heated washing of the mops, drying, and more. Finally, and maybe most important of all, the S8 MaxV Ultra has a built-in voice assistant that includes Matter smart home protocol support.
The RockDock Ultra is the real star of the aftershow. Between cleanings, the S8 Max series vacuums will return home, recharge, empty, and self-maintain. It offers auto emptying of the dustbin and water bin, clean water refilling, hot water mop washing, warm air drying, intelligent dirt detection, auto detergent dispensing, and, last but not least, dock self-cleaning. Altogether, that automated support allows you to remain hands-off for much longer. Where you’d otherwise have to empty the dustbin and refill the mop water yourself, here, you can sit back and relax until the dock needs your support. We’re talking weeks and weeks between you lifting a finger versus hours.
Intuitive controls and more
From the built-in cleaning assistant in the S8 MaxV Ultra to the Matter protocol support, third-party voice control access through Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit, and the smart mobile app with real-time video connectivity, you’re in full control. But only when you need or want to be. The S8 Max Series is smart enough to get around on its own and once you set up a schedule and cleaning parameters you can be as hands-off as you want to. You can also use the app to suggest no-go zones, change cleaning directions, setup custom cleaning routines, check mapping, adjust multi-level mapping, and much more.
Not home and want to check on your pets? You can even tap into the video feed of the camera to do just that. With a simple one-tap button in the app, the S8 MaxV Ultra will explore your home to find precisely where your pets are hanging out. It’s excellent for a quick checkup and highlights just how versatile and user-friendly these Roborock smart vacuums truly are.
